Breeding Maine Coons

by Laurie Alouf
(Roanoke, VA)

Finding a male to breed with my female Maine Coon


I have a year old female Maine coon and would like to know the best time to breed her and where to find a male Maine coon to breed her with.

Reply:
Hi Laurie,
Your question comes up from time to time, and it always sparks a thoughtful discussion.

If your girl is a year old, she's just at the age where breeding might sound like the next step. But in reality, it's a path that calls for a lot of planning and learning first. What you're really describing is the start of becoming a breeder.

Rather than just looking for a male, it helps to think of this as building a foundation. Most responsible breeders start by finding a mentor.

This would be someone who has been through it all and can guide you through things like genetic screening, timing, contracts, and the practical side of raising kittens safely.

The goal isn't just to have kittens, but to protect the health, temperament, and structure that make these cats what they are.

That includes health screening for conditions like HCM and ensuring both parents meet the standard for the breed.

A good next step is to reach out to the breeder who sold you your girl. Ask whether she was placed as a pet or a potential breeding queen - that makes all the difference.

You might also visit a few cat shows and start conversations with breeders there. You'll meet people who are deeply involved and can share honest advice about what the process truly involves.

This question reminded me of an older discussion we had on this same topic. The insights shared there still hold true today:

Looking for a Male Maine Coon for Breeding


by Daisy Fennell
(Miami, FL)

Hi,
I have a female Maine Coon which I would like to breed with a male Maine Coon in the near future. Do you or do you know of anyone who can provide a stud?

Reply:
Hi Daisy,
No, I don’t know of any, but your question opens up a really important conversation.

What you're describing is the start of becoming a breeder. That's a big, rewarding step when done thoughtfully.

Have you been showing your girl? Has she been screened for hereditary conditions? Responsible breeders work hard to "better the breed," which means each pairing is carefully planned for health, temperament, and conformation.

Most people begin by purchasing a show-quality kitten and getting involved in showing first.

It's a great way to learn from others, meet mentors, and understand what separates breeding-quality cats from pets.

If your girl was sold as a pet, her breeder likely expected her to be spayed. So it's worth checking your contract before moving forward.

If you're serious about learning, cat shows are invaluable. You'll meet people who've spent years developing their lines, and you'll see firsthand what it takes to raise kittens the right way.

Community Responses:


Stud Cats
by:Helen
Most serious breeders don't accept outside females. They've invested years of work and money to refine their lines and protect their catteries from disease.

It's also important to know that breeding is expensive. Vet bills add up quickly, and there's always a risk to the mother during delivery.

I'd rather buy kittens from a trusted breeder and support their work.

Carrie Has Put it Well
I was approached about using my Samoyed as a stud, even though he was show quality. I declined because I knew the responsibility involved.

Breeding isn't just about producing babies. It's about knowing the genetics, risks, and commitment it takes.

Breeding cats
by: Vasili's Maine Coon Cats
I can tell you that breeding quality cats is very expensive not to mention very time consuming.

First and foremost to all the posters. If you have a Maine Coon cat, male or female and you do not have breeding rights then you are not suppose to be breeding your cat, period!

If your bought your cat from a reputable breeder then you signed a contract saying you would have your kitten spayed/neutered. To breed without breeding rights makes you unethical and dishonest.

When a kittens papers are filed with the cat associations (CFA and TICA) they will come back as "Not for breeding" on the certificate.

If someone here does have breeding rights on their kitten I would be most happy to talk with you. Please feel free to visit my website or give me a call.



Both of these questions - years apart - show the same curiosity that many people feel when they fall in love with this breed.

It's completely understandable. The best path forward is to learn everything you can from those already doing it.

Start with mentorship, read breeder stories, and attend a show or two. You'll come away with a clear picture of what's involved - and whether it's the right next step for you and your girl.

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