Maine Coon Cat Adoption:
How to Find Your New Best Friend

by: Carrie Profenno - Author, Mainer, Maine Coon Mama, editor of The Maine Coon Magazine

Are you interested in Maine Coon cat adoption? It's easy to see why, they are amazing family pets!

Do you want to adopt a Maine Coon cat or kitten and you're not sure where to start? Here, we've gathered all your cat adoption resources to get you started. There are a few ways to find a Maine Coon for adoption.

Let's talk about Maine Coon Breeders, Rescue, Clubs & Organizations, finding kittens for sale, and things to think about when adopting a cat or kitten.

gorgeous brown tabby maine coon looking into camera

Ben Cartwright is a gorgeous purebred Coonie

Finding Maine Coon Cats for Adoption

Method #1: Maine Coon Cat Breeders

For those who are ready for a purebred kitten, it may be time to contact a responsible breeder. This section is all about what to look for at the cattery.

What questions should you ask your breeder? What breed-specific organizations or clubs should a breeder be a member of? And, what should the kings and queens (mamas and papas) at the cattery be like?

There are lots of breeders out there, and your job is to choose a great one! Our page on choosing a breeder will guide you.

When you are ready, it may not be enough to do an internet search. I am in the state of Maine, so when I searched for Maine Coons for sale near me, well, it brought back results from throughout the United States!

Trying to find a local registered cattery was frustrating, and it resulted in the creation of our useable directory.

Rather than looking for kittens for sale at a pet store, or clicking advertisements online or on social media, try visiting our extensive and exclusive Breeders Directory first.

Kitten Scams:

There are, unfortunately, quite a few kitten scammers on the web. These will probably pop up on a general internet search.

On our kitten scam page, we share red flags and exactly what these scams look like.

In the comments section, our community members have outed many scammers they have come across, so you can avoid them.

Beautiful Bella from Colossal Cats in Florida

The term Maine Coon Cat Adoption can mean different things to different people.

To some, it's buying a cat from a breeder. To others, adoption means going the route of rescue through a shelter or rescue organization.

Any method of bringing a new Coonie home can be called adoption!

Rescuing a Coonie:

Maine Coon Cat adoption & rescue are such great options. There are many cats who have lost their home or family for any number of reasons.

Some owners are unable to keep their pet(s) due to moving, aging, or illness.

This brings us to the second method of Maine Coon cat adoption:

Finding Maine Coon Cats for Adoption

Method #2: Cat Shelters and Maine Coon Rescue

Little Cruz was adopted from a rescue group

Through no fault of their own, these loving pets are left waiting for a good home and loving family.

Wouldn't it be great if every pet in the world who needed a home could be placed in one?

A local shelter or rescue is a good place to find mixed breed kittens for adoption.

When you visit a shelter or rescue group, you'll meet many loving, healthy cats and kittens. And, you might just meet an awesome kitty who will steal your heart!

Ready For Maine Coon Cat Adoption?

This section dives a little deeper into what it's like to have a Coonie.

Are you wondering how one of these kittens will fit in with your family or lifestyle?

Every breed has it's own "ways" and these beauties are no exception. Although they are very adaptable, it's always good to make sure you're ready for Maine Coon cat adoption.

Learn more about them to see if you should adopt a Maine Coon.

Not only are they the largest domestic cat breed, but these majestic felines are also consistently one of the most popular cat breeds.

It's no wonder why! Cat lovers everywhere know one thing - these gorgeous animals are practically perfect in every way, but they sure are expensive!

5 year old Cypress Hill from Poland

Finding Low Cost or Free Kittens:

The price to purchase a new kitten can be high. So, Maine Coon cat adoption is a great choice!

For pet parents who are willing to be patient and creative, there are ways to find a free or low-cost Maine Coon kitten for adoption.

Purebred kittens will always be for sale. There's no way around that, so it's a good idea to be open to mixed-breed kittens and lookalikes when visiting a shelter or adoption center.

Your new best friend doesn't have to have a pedigree to be perfect for you.

"Bringing home a new feline friend from the shelter is not just a rescue, it's a gift of love that keeps on giving."

Frequently Asked Questions:

FAQ's About Finding Maine Coon Cats for Adoption:

How much does a Maine Coon Cat cost?

Currently, you can expect to pay $1,000-$2,000 for a purebred Maine Coon kitten.

In some cases the price of a kitten may be higher, depending on factors such as rarity of colors or features, as well as pedigree and location.

Anytime you come across kittens for sale for less, especially in the $500-$700 range, suspect a scam.

Scammers use these "reasonable" prices to hook unsuspecting, hopeful folks. They create a sense of urgency and are eager to receive a kitten deposit. Unfortunately, there is no kitten.

Can Maine Coons be adopted?

It is possible to find Maine Coon Cats for adoption. In rare cases, even a purebred kitty may become homeless.

You can contact a breed-specific rescue group such as Only Maine Rescue, which is run by people devoted to Maine Coon cat adoption, who devote their time, effort, and more to these felines in need.

Alternatively, if you reach out to your community about your wishes to adopt a Coonie and are patient, you may hear from a friend, neighbor or associate about a purebred cat in need of a loving home.

Many shaggy cats in shelters are labeled as Maine Coon or MC mixes.

And although they may simply be domestic medium-haired cats, that's ok!

These lookalikes, or "honorary Coonies," can have the same lovely personality and winsome good-looks you are searching for.

Do Maine Coons make good pets?

The Maine Coon cat breed is known for being a wonderful family addition.

With their large size, shaggy coat, and friendly temperament, they are truly gentle giants. This breed quickly becomes a treasured family pet.

They are playful, gregarious, and terrific with small children.

Are Maine Coons difficult to take care of?

They do have a lot of fur! Since these are large cats, they need a large litter box and more food than average.

They are happy as indoor kitties and do not need an extra large home. Some toys, quality playtime and perhaps a sturdy cat tree will suffice.

As long as you spend the time to bond with them daily and to brush them regularly, their needs will be met!

What are the cons of owning a Maine Coon Cat?

When you own a large cat, you may find yourself cleaning the litter box more often, using more kitty litter and buying more cat food. It can be expensive.

Because you've invested in a purebred cat, you may be more thoughtful about what type of food you are feeding, such as a raw diet.

These big cats are prone to a few health concerns, such as hip dysplasia. Also, regularly brushing their luscious, long hair can be a chore for some pet parents.

10 Important Facts About Shelter Kitties

Overpopulation: According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), there are an estimated 3.2 million felines in animal shelters across the United States.

Surrender reasons: The most common reasons cats are surrendered to shelters include behavior issues, moving to a new home, and the owner's inability to care for them.

Length of stay: The length of stay for kitties in shelters varies widely, but some may spend months or even years in the shelter before finding a forever home.

Feral felines: Many shelters also take in ferals, which are often not adoptable due to their lack of socialization.

Health concerns: Kitties shelters may be more susceptible to illnesses due to their close proximity to other animals.

Adoption rates: Adoption rates for cats tend to be lower than those for dogs, with some estimates suggesting that as many as 70% of felines in shelters never find a forever home.

Age: Older kitties, particularly those over 5 years old, may have a harder time finding a home as they are often overlooked in favor of younger kittens.

Behavioral issues: Those with behavioral issues, such as aggression or shyness, may be less likely to be adopted.

Benefits of adoption: Adopting from a shelter can be a great way to save a life, help reduce overpopulation, and provide a loving home for a pet in need.

How Maine Coon Cat Adoption Works:

The adoption process is really very easy. You can either visit your local shelter and ask about any Maine Coon mix cats they may have, or you can start with an internet search using tools such as the ASPCA adoption tool or Petfinder.

Simply input your informations such as location and desired breed, and see the available felines.

Alfred is an adopted Coonie

From there, you can contact the shelter in charge. The cat you want to adopt may be there or in a nearby foster home. You may be able to visit them.

If you have filled out an adoption application the process will be shorter so it's a good idea to do that in advance.

Your new pet will have had veterinary care, and in short order should be ready to come home!

Just for Fun: 10 Reasons to Adopt a Shelter Kitty

Companionship: Felines are wonderful companions and can bring joy and comfort to your life.

Low-maintenance: They are generally easy-to-care-for pets, requiring minimal exercise and attention.

Affectionate: Many kitties are very affectionate and enjoy snuggling and cuddling with their owners.

Independent: They are independent creatures and can keep themselves entertained for hours.

Affordable: Adopting from a shelter is often much more affordable than buying a kitten from a breeder.

Good for your health: Research has shown that feline ownership can have health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and reducing stress.

Easy to train: They can be trained to use a litter box and follow basic commands, making them easy to live with.

Pest control: They are natural hunters and can help keep your home free from rodents and other pests.

Good for the environment: Adopting a kitty from a shelter helps reduce overpopulation and can have a positive impact on the environment.

Saving a life: Adopting from a shelter means giving a homeless animal a second chance at a happy life.

Benefits of Feline Adoption:

Did you know that owning a cat can have several positive impacts on your health?

cute brown tabby kitten with paws outstretched

Tank is an adopted kitty

Studies have shown that spending time with cats can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

Petting a cat can also help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

In addition, the presence of a feline in the home can provide a sense of comfort and companionship, especially for those who live alone or have limited social interactions.

It's safe to say that Maine Coon cat adoption and rescue can not only provide you with a loving companion, but also improve your physical and emotional well-being. A win-win!

Maine Coon Cat Rescue and Search Tool: Are you interested in finding a new companion via rescue? That's wonderful. There are so many cats in the world who need a good home.

Find one who will be a great fit in your home and receive the peace of mind that comes with knowing you've saved a life.

Celebrate Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month! Every spring, there's a huge influx of homeless kitties in shelters and rescues. Learn more about how to help this spring.

Why is the Cost of Maine Coons so High? All purebred cats come from breeders who devote their passion to continuing the breed.

Ethical breeders use practices of the highest standards to produce a healthy Maine Coon kitten for you.

Find out more about what goes into a breeding program and why the price is what it is.

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