Maine Coon Cats For Sale

How & Where to Find Your New Furry Friend

by Carrie Profenno: Author, Coonie Mama & lifelong Mainer

Looking for Maine Coon Cats for sale? Find everything you need to know about kittens for sale, for adoption, and locating a breeder!

"What About Maine Coon Cats For Sale In Pet Stores?"

What is the difference between a pet shop kitten and one from a breeder? Good question!

Most of us are by now familiar with the horrid practice of puppy mills & pet stores. Puppies are not found in pet stores as much nowadays, because of public awareness.

ten brown kittens in a row on gold background

The same is true of kittens! If you are looking for purebred Maine Coon kittens for sale, gone are the days of buying one from a pet store!

When I was a child, every time we visited the local mall, the highlight of my trip was seeing the cute puppies and especially the cute kitties in the pet store. I even remember the name of that old store, some 30 years later.

We never stopped to think about those poor Maine Coon cats for sale (and other breeds too) back then. We just loved to look at the cute kitties.

Kittens for sale in a pet store are the same as puppies in a pet shop. The conditions in which they were bred are at best questionable, at worst horrifying.

The Whole Story About Maine Coon Cats for Sale in a Pet Shop:

➤ First, you have no way to meet the parents. You want to evaluate the mom and dad, to see that they are great examples of the breed.

What kind of health are the parents in? Have they been screened for genetically inherited diseases?

➤ What kind of conditions are the parents kept in? If the breeder/owner was selling kittens to a pet store, they do not love their pets, pure and simple.

The parents were likely kept in small quarters, largely ignored, along side many other lonely, sickly, and sad cats.

Buying a kitten from a pet store supports these conditions. It pays the people who do it, so they can stay in business.

Thankfully, the practice of selling kittens and puppies in pet stores has become more rare with each passing year.

Socialization: This is so important, it can't be stressed enough! How could a kitten in a cage be trained in the ways of being a friendly, social family member?

Maine Coon kittens for sale from breeders are "raised under foot," meaning part of the family. They will be curious, friendly, laid-back, and not skittish!

Taken From Mom Too Early: This breed is slow to mature. They always stay with the breeder until about 12-14 weeks of age. They need this time. It's during this time that they develop socially and establish that beautiful temperament they are known for.

It can be heartbreaking and tempting to see kittens in a pet shop. You just want to "rescue" him and give him some love.

But try to remember that by doing so you'd be financing more of the same, not to mention committing the breeding cats to more of that sad life.

Maine Coon Cats For Sale From Breeders:

Loving, caring devoted breeders have cat as pets, first and foremost. There are so many benefits from finding your kitten this way. It's really the only way.

They take great care to find loving homes for the precious babies. They are not "in it for money," selling animals off for profit.

"Purebred Kittens Are So Expensive.
What About Adoption?"

Taking home kittens for adoption is a great choice. You may find a Maine Coon mix, or a Maine Coon look-a-like who steals your heart!

Any purebred kitten will be for sale, though. There is a lot that goes into breeding, and good reasons for the higher costs of purebred cats and kittens.

If cost is a factor, as it is for so many of us, definitely look into kittens for adoption! Go to your local shelter, and you probably won't leave empty-handed!

If you are tempted to look for low cost or bargain kittens, this will open you up to backyard breeders, though. This often ends up costing much more in the long run.

four purebred tabby Maine Coon kittens in a row.

Remember: Many responsible Maine Coon breeders do have their own websites.

Don't be shy about visiting them! You can see pictures of and read about the cattery, how they got started, whether they show their cats, and even see pictures of their cats and kittens.

Ready to find Maine Coon cats for sale near you? Great! Hop on over to our newly expanded Breeder Directory! It's a great resource.

A final thought: Many breeders are willing to ship their kittens, but we recommend staying local. Visiting their website is a great way to get a feeling for them first.

You can call or email them at that point. They may even have updated pictures of their latest litter! And, bingo, you've found your new perfect feline friend!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):

What Should I Know About the Adoption Process for This Breed?

Adopting one of these gentle giants can be a rewarding experience, whether you’re looking for a purebred or a mix.

Start by checking with your local shelters and rescue organizations. Some shelters specialize in purebred pets or can point you toward breed-specific rescues.

Many rescue groups have networks across states, making it easier to find one of these kitties in need of a home.

When adopting, prepare to answer questions about your lifestyle, home environment, and experience with pets.

Many organizations conduct a thorough vetting process to ensure the animals are placed in safe, loving homes.

Be patient - adoption can take time, but it’s worth it. Keep in mind that adults of this breed are often overlooked but can make wonderful companions.

They are typically more settled in their personalities, which makes it easier to find one that suits your home.

What Does the Breeder Directory Include, and How Can It Help Me?

The Breeder Directory is a comprehensive resource designed to connect you with reputable Coonie breeders.

Each listing typically includes key details, such as contact information, location, and a description of the cattery.

Many breeders also share information about their lineage, health screening protocols, and photos of past litters.

Using the directory helps you narrow your search to ethical breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their animals.

You can also use it to find breeders closer to your area, which is ideal for visiting the cattery and meeting your future companion in person.

Before reaching out, take time to review the breeder's website or social media, if available.

This will give you an idea of their practices, testimonials, and any special requirements for adopting one of their babies.

How Much Should I Expect to Spend on One of These Kitties?

The cost of a Coonie companion can range from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on factors like pedigree, breeder reputation, and location.

Show-quality animals or those with champion bloodlines tend to be at the higher end of the spectrum.

However, purchasing from a reputable breeder ensures your new family member is healthy, well-socialized, and free from genetic issues, which can save money on medical expenses in the long run.

Beyond the initial purchase price, consider additional costs like spaying or neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, and a quality diet.

Their grooming supplies, scratching posts, and toys can also add up, especially given their size and long, luxurious coats.

While the upfront investment may seem high, responsible breeders put significant time and resources into raising their animals, including genetic testing, veterinary care, and proper socialization.

If the cost of a purebred Coonie is outside your budget, adoption is a fantastic alternative.

Shelters and rescues often have lower fees, typically ranging from $50 to $300, which usually include vaccinations and spaying/neutering.

What Does "Ethical Breeding Practices" Mean?

Ethical breeders prioritize the health, temperament, and overall well-being of their animals above all else.

They ensure that their breeding program includes thorough screening for genetic conditions common to this breed, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hip dysplasia.

These steps help reduce the risk of health issues being passed on to the next generation.

A responsible breeder raises their babies in a clean, loving home environment, often as part of the family.

This ensures they are well-socialized, accustomed to household noises, and comfortable around people.

Ethical breeders also follow strict guidelines about when their little ones can leave for their new homes, typically at 12–14 weeks of age. This allows them to fully develop physically and socially before transitioning to a new environment.

When visiting a breeder, ask questions about their practices. Are they raised underfoot? Does the breeder offer lifetime support for their animals? Ethical breeders are transparent and will happily answer your questions.

They will also interview you to ensure their little ones go to responsible, loving homes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your Maine Coon Cats For Sale

Bringing one of these kitties into your life is an exciting journey! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find the perfect addition to your family:

1. Research the Breed

Learn all about this breed’s unique traits, temperament, and care requirements. Consider if their size, energy level, and grooming needs align with your lifestyle.

2. Locate Reputable Sources

Check trusted directories for ethical breeders or search for rescue organizations that may have adoptable Coonies. Avoid online ads or unverified sellers, as they may not prioritize the animal’s health and welfare.

3. Connect and Visit

Once you’ve found a breeder or shelter, ask plenty of questions about their practices and the animal’s health history. Meet the breeder in person or visit the shelter to ensure a clean and caring environment.

4. Prepare Your Home

Before bringing your furry friend home, set up a cozy space with essentials like food, water dishes, a litter box, and toys. Their long coat may need regular grooming, so have brushes ready, too!

Taking your time to follow these steps ensures a smooth transition and sets the foundation for a happy life together!

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