Maine Coon Clubs and Organizations

by: Carrie Profenno / Author, Mainer, Maine Coon Mama!

There are a few Maine Coon clubs and prominent feline organizations that are important to know about.

When finding and choosing an ethical, responsible breeder (and avoiding scammers), you'll want to make sure they are affiliated and registered with at least one of these Maine Coon organizations or clubs.

Your breeder will likely belong to a couple of these. For a fan of the Maine Coon, they are great to know about.

TICA

The International Cat Association was established in 1976. It is the oldest and most well-known of the cat Maine Coon clubs.

It has members all over the world, and recognizes fifty-five breeds for championship competition including, of course, the Maine Coon breed!

Global Presence: TICA's reach extends across the globe, with locations and members in numerous countries.

Its international scope fosters a diverse community of enthusiasts, breeders, and exhibitors, contributing to the exchange of knowledge and best practices in cat breeding and showing.

Breed Recognition: TICA's recognition of fifty-five cat breeds for championship competition underscores its commitment to celebrating the diversity of feline breeds.

By acknowledging the Maine Coon among its recognized breeds, TICA plays a pivotal role in promoting and preserving this beloved breed on a global scale.

Breed Standards: TICA's role in establishing and maintaining breed standards is crucial for ensuring the integrity and authenticity of cat breeds, including the Maine Coon.

These standards serve as benchmarks for breeders, judges, and enthusiasts, guiding them in their efforts to maintain breed type and characteristics.

Household Pet Registry: In addition to pedigreed show cats, TICA maintains the largest registry of household pet cats and kittens.

This inclusive approach acknowledges the value and importance of all felines, regardless of pedigree, in enriching the lives of their owners and contributing to the broader feline community.

Mercedes

Community Engagement: TICA fosters a vibrant and engaged community of cat lovers through its events, competitions, and educational initiatives.

Cat shows and exhibitions organized by TICA provide opportunities for breeders, owners, and enthusiasts to showcase their cats, learn from one another, and celebrate their shared passion for felines.

Membership Benefits: Breeders who register their cats with TICA gain access to a range of benefits, including networking opportunities, educational resources, and support services.

TICA membership facilitates collaboration and knowledge-sharing among breeders, contributing to the advancement of responsible breeding practices and the well-being of pets.

CFA

The Cat Fanciers Association boasts the world's largest registry of pedigreed felines. Many excellent Maine Coon breeders are members of this organization. The CFA was founded in 1990.

Have Mercy

The first major donation and "crown jewel" of the CFA is the silver collar (and medal) won by Cosey the Maine Coon at the first major show in North America on May 8, 1895.

Cosey won the title of Best in Show at the National Cat Show in Madison Square Garden.

Historical Significance: The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1906.

As the world's largest registry of pedigreed felines, CFA has played a central role in shaping the cat fancy and establishing standards for breeds, including the Maine Coon breed.

Breed Standards and Judging: CFA's dedication to maintaining breed standards ensures that felines are evaluated based on their adherence to the breed's characteristics and conformation.

The organization's rigorous judging process at cat shows helps to uphold these standards and recognize exemplary specimens of the breed.

Breeder Community: Many reputable breeders are active members of CFA, reflecting the organization's status as a trusted authority in the cat breeding community.

Through CFA membership, breeders gain access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and educational programs aimed at promoting responsible breeding practices and the welfare of pets.

Historical Milestones: The story of Cosey, the Maine Coon who won Best in Show at the National Cat Show in Madison Square Garden in 1895, serves as a testament to the breed's enduring popularity and significance in the world of cat fancy.

This milestone event represents a pivotal moment in the recognition and appreciation of the Maine Coon breed in North America.

Educational Initiatives: In addition to organizing cat shows and competitions, CFA is committed to educating cat enthusiasts, breeders, and the general public about various aspects of cat care, behavior, and welfare.

Through publications, seminars, and online resources, CFA aims to promote responsible cat ownership and stewardship.

MCBFA

The Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association is the first of the truly Maine Coon Cat clubs. It was established in 1968.

Ben Cartwright

We can thank the MCBFA for bringing public awareness to this wonderful breed at a time when it had all but fallen out of existence!

They are responsible for promoting the Maine Coon breed, getting it recognized, establishing a breed standard, and getting it back into the cat shows.

Pioneering Role: As the first organization dedicated specifically to this breed, the Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association (MCBFA) holds a pivotal place in the history of the breed.

Founded in 1968, MCBFA played a pioneering role in reviving and promoting the breed at a time when its existence was threatened.

Preservation Efforts: MCBFA's early efforts were instrumental in raising public awareness about this breed and advocating for its preservation.

Through outreach campaigns, educational initiatives, and breed promotion activities, MCBFA helped to ensure the continued survival and recognition of the Maine Coon as a distinct and valued breed.

Breed Standard Development: MCBFA played a key role in establishing the breed standard, defining the characteristics and traits that define the breed's conformation, temperament, and overall appearance.

The development of a comprehensive breed standard provided a framework for breeders, judges, and enthusiasts to evaluate and promote the breed consistently.

Show Participation: MCBFA's efforts to reintroduce this breed into cat shows were instrumental in showcasing the breed's unique qualities and winning recognition from the wider cat fancy community.

By actively participating in cat shows and competitions, breeders and fanciers helped to demonstrate the breed's appeal and suitability for exhibition.

Community Building: MCBFA fosters a vibrant and supportive community of Maine Coon enthusiasts, breeders, and owners.

Through membership in MCBFA, individuals gain access to resources, networking opportunities, and educational programs tailored specifically to the needs and interests of "Coonie" aficionados.

Health and Welfare Initiatives: In addition to breed promotion and show participation, MCBFA is committed to safeguarding the health and welfare of these beautiful felines.

The organization supports research efforts aimed at addressing breed-specific health concerns and advocates for responsible breeding practices that prioritize well-being.

You can expect your professional, ethical Maine Coon breeder to belong to at least one of the above organizations.

More Maine Coon Clubs:

MCCC:

The Maine Coon Cat Club (MCCC): Based in the UK, the MCCC was established in 1985 and is dedicated to promoting the breed through shows, social events, and education. 

Zeke

They provide resources for breeders and owners, as well as promoting responsible ownership. 

This welcoming community is dedicated to celebrating the unique charm and beauty of these rugged, unique kitties.

Run by passionate volunteers, MCCC serves as a hub for enthusiasts to gather and share their love for these majestic felines.

Offering a range of resources, from informative articles to breed standards, MCCC provides valuable support for both seasoned owners and those new to the breed.

MCCCA:

Maine Coon Cat Club of America (MCCCA): Another organization focused on promoting and preserving the breed in the United States. 

JoJo

They offer resources for breeders, owners, and enthusiasts, and they also organize events such as cat shows.

Led by a dedicated team of volunteers, MCCCA provides a wealth of resources for owners, breeders, and admirers of this beloved breed.

From educational articles to fun events, members enjoy a vibrant community centered around their shared love for Coonies.

With a warm and inclusive atmosphere, MCCCA fosters connections and camaraderie among like-minded individuals, whether seasoned enthusiasts or newcomers to the breed.

UMCCA:

The United Maine Coon Cat Association (UMCCA) is one of the original Maine Coon organizations.

It is affiliated with the CFF (Cat Fanciers Federation) and was established in 1972. This group is devoted to the preservation and promotion of the breed.

Maine Coon Rescue Clubs

Rescue groups are devoted to placing Maine Coons in need. 

While they may not be as numerous as those for more common breeds, they do exist, and they work to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome Maine Coons in need. Here are a few examples:

Maine Coon Adoptions: This organization, based in California, specializes in rescuing purebreds and mixes.

They provide foster care, veterinary treatment, and adoption services for these kitties, with the goal of finding them loving forever homes.

Maine Coon Rescue (MCR): MCR is a nationwide network of volunteers who rescue and rehome Coonies and mixes.

They operate across the United States and Canada, working to match felines in need with suitable adopters.

Maine Coon Rescue Alliance: This organization is dedicated to rescuing these beauties from shelters and other at-risk situations.

They have a network of volunteers and foster homes across the United States, working to provide care and find loving homes for Coonies in need.

These organizations often have adoption processes in place to ensure that the animals are placed in suitable homes, and they may also provide education and resources for owners.

If you're interested in adopting a Coonie, reaching out to one of these organizations could be a great place to start.

Regional Maine Coon Clubs

Just when you thought we were done - there are many local and regional Maine Coon clubs as well!

These groups might not have the same reach as larger national or international organizations but can still offer valuable resources, networking opportunities, and support for enthusiasts within their specific regions. Here are a few examples:

Northeast Regional Maine Coon Club (NERMCC): The NREMCC focuses its efforts in the northeastern United States. They may organize events, shows, and provide resources tailored to Maine Coon fans in this region.

Pacific Northwest Maine Coon Club: Catering to fanciers in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, they may offer local events, resources, and support for breeders and owners.

Midwest Maine Coon Club: For enthusiasts in the Midwest region of the United States, they may provide a local community, educational opportunities, and events focused on the breed.

Maine Coon Cat Club of Australia: This organization is dedicates its time in Australia, providing support, resources, and events for aficianados in the country.

Maine Coon Fanciers of Western Australia

These are just a few examples, and there may be other regional groups focused on this breed in different areas around the world.

By entering a quick search online you can visit The Maine Coon Cat Club of:

Searching online or connecting with local cat breeders and enthusiasts can help you find regional Maine Coon clubs or groups specific to your area.

Knowing about official Maine Coon clubs and organizations provides access to valuable resources, support, and community for fans, breeders, and owners.

Benefits include educational materials, networking opportunities, breed standards guidance, responsible breeding practices, health information, and events for showcasing and enjoying this magnificent breed!

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