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Maine Coon cats are priced as one of the most highly regarded domestic cats, and the prices will catch first-time buyers off guard. Their great size, slow age maturity, long, luxurious fur, and affectionate character, make them even more desirable. The demand for them cultivates the market.
While trying to find how much Maine Coone cats cost, you may be curious about:
- If the price makes sense
- What changes cost from kittens to adults
- What will be your cost over the long term
Here, I will cover the costs of acquiring a Maine Coon. I will cover short and long-term expenses, direct and indirect expenses, and other expenses along with time periods to help you decide whether or not a Maine Coon is suitable for you.
Average Price of a Maine Coon Cat
Maine Coons can be priced anywhere due to variances in their age, pedigree, breeder types, and even the location.
Average Maine Coon Prices
| Type | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| Pet-quality Maine Coon kitten | $800 – $2,000 |
| Show-quality / breeding kitten | $2,000 – $4,500+ |
| Adult Maine Coon cat | $400 – $1,200 |
| Adoption or rescue | $100 – $400 |
Pet-quality kittens are sold as companions, so they usually come spayed or neutered. Show-quality Maine Coons are more expensive because they meet precise physical and lineage criteria and are rare due to their breeding capability.
Why Are Maine Coon Cats So Expensive?
Maine Coons are not overpriced. They simply come with responsibility.
Reasons behind the high price:
Slow Growth Rate
Maine Coons takes 4 5 years to mature. This means more food, more space, and more time.
Health Testing & Veterinary Care
Ethical breeders screen for any presence of the following:
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Hip dysplasia
- Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
These tests are very expensive but are an absolute must.
High Maintenance Needs
Maine Coons have long, thick, and fuzzy hair that grows from early on.
Limited Supply, High Demand
Responsible breeders can only have a few litters each year.
Cheap Maine Coon kittens usually signify a short cut in any of the following areas: health, socialization, breeding ethics, or price.
Price Comparison (Maine Coon Kitten vs Adult Maine Coon)
Maine Coon Kittens
Why are kittens the most expensive?
- They adjust the fastest to new environments
- They need a lot of parental care
- They are in the higher demand vs the other age groups
Most reputable breeders don’t sell kittens before 12–14 weeks, which further increases costs.
Adult Maine Coons
Fully grown Maine Coons are cheaper, but come from:
- Retired breeding programs
- Rehoming situations
- Rescue organizations
Adult Maine Coons often have established personalities which makes them ideal for owners who want a more relaxed companion.
Does Coat Color or Pattern Affect Maine Coon Adult Price
While color alone doesn’t determine quality, certain traits can influence the price.
- Silver or smoke coats
- Shaded patterns
- Big toed polydactyl
- High-contrast tabby markings
However, Maine Coon should have nothing to do with the color of the coat high profile breeders prioritize health, temperament, and structure over coat color and buyer should do the same.
First Year Costs
Keeping a Maine Coon requires additional cost beyond the purchase price.
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Veterinary exams & vaccinations | $200 – $500 |
| Spay/neuter surgery | $150 – $400 |
| Large litter boxes & supplies | $100 – $200 |
| Sturdy scratching posts & trees | $150 – $400 |
| Grooming Tools & carriers | $100 – $250 |
Estimated first-year cost (not counting the price of the cat): $700 – $1,700+
Large Maine Coons require cat accessories that are also oversized, meaning added initial costs.
Monthly & Annual Maintenance Costs
Monthly Costs:
- Premium cat food: $40 – $80
- Litter: $20 – $40
- Grooming supplies: $10 – $20
Annual Costs:
- Routine vet visits: $200 – $500
- Dental care if needed: $150 – $300
- Emergency fund: strongly recommended
Besides Maine Coons, there are other healthy cats, but be prepared for the unexpected medical costs.
Is the price tag for a Maine Coon justified?
Because of the price tag, many owners of Maine Coons could justify their cost for the appreciation that the owners get.
Maine Coons are known for…
- Great Velcro dogs (they stick by your side)
- High IQ
- They are great with little kids
- They live a long time
They Maine Coons are not for owners looking for a cat that won’t require regular maintenance, but instead low maintenance owners looking for a cat that provides real companionship, depth, and a strong bond, Maine Coons go above and beyond.
FAQs
How much does a Maine Coon kitten usually cost?
It depends on breeder quality, location, and health testing, but Maine Coon kittens cost between $800 to $2,000 on average.
Why are Maine Coon cats more expensive than other cats?
Extensive health testing, specialized breeding, and slow maturity are great contributors to their overall cost.
Is it cheaper to adopt a Maine Coon?
Yes, but a purebred Maine Coon is likely to be a mix or rare to find in shelters.
Are Maine Coons expensive to maintain long term?
Yes, but with good planning and managing, long term maintenance is easy.
Do Maine Coons have more health problems?
No, as long as they’re sourced responsibly, well bred Maine Coons are usually healthy.
Can Maine Coons live in apartments?
Yes, with a little more room, and lots more stimulation and interaction.
