There are several things to consider when looking for a reputable Maine Coon breeder. Read on to learn about the health risks, cost, and scams involved, and where to buy a Maine Coon kitten. Before making a final decision, ask for references and do your research.
Scams
Buying a Maine Coon kitten from an online seller can be a risky affair. It’s best to avoid international transactions and perform due diligence before paying any money. Be wary of scammers who might sell you a kitten without showing you any pictures. If you’re unsure about the legitimacy of a company, never pay a nonreturnable deposit.
Be wary of online ads, especially those that don’t list phone numbers. A scammer will likely use a phone number to reach out to potential customers and get their money. If you’re unsure about a listing, ask to talk with the seller directly. If the seller doesn’t respond to your inquiries, try sending a photograph of the kitten and a written note.
Some scammers will offer kittens for an unusually low price. They will make it sound like you’re getting a rare breed. They may also use the same pictures across different scammer sites. Sometimes they’ll even create a fake Facebook page using random pictures of kittens. Avoid these scammers by contacting reputable breeders.
Remember that a legitimate breeder will always ask you questions before selling you a kitten. If a breeder offers an “instant purchase” button, they’re likely scamming you. If a seller offers a price that’s far below the normal range for a Maine Coon, you should be wary.
Don’t purchase from a website that doesn’t have a Facebook page. If the seller only has a short social media presence, it’s likely a scam. Similarly, look for a breeder who has been on Facebook for a long time.
Health
Heart disease is a common issue for Maine Coons. This degenerative condition occurs due to the abnormal functioning of heart muscle. It is usually congenital, but in rare cases can also develop later in life. Some common problems include heart valves that aren’t properly functioning and defects in the heart wall. A genetic disorder known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is also common in Maine Coons, and this can result in heart failure. However, it can be treated with life-long medication.
Maine Coons also suffer from respiratory problems, including problems with the lungs and trachea. Some may develop asthma, which occurs when the lower airways become inflamed. If this happens, your kitten should receive treatment, which can include tablets and injections. The best way to prevent these problems is to provide regular preventive care.
In some cases, your Maine Coon kitten may have kidney problems. This can lead to excessive thirst and frequent urination, as well as increased water consumption. It can also lead to depression, lethargy, and weight loss. Fortunately, many of these problems are curable and can be avoided with appropriate treatment.
Another common health problem in Maine Coons is Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), which affects the muscles in the back legs. While it is not fatal, it can impair your Maine Coon’s ability to jump and play. However, with proper care, these kittens can live with the disorder and continue to hunt.
Some Maine Coon kittens are genetically susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which causes the heart muscle to become enlarged. Fortunately, the condition can be prevented by careful breeding, but it’s still important to check your kitten regularly. You should also check for signs of heart failure, as it could be a sign of a serious heart condition.
Maine Coon kittens are susceptible to many common illnesses. Some of the most common are infectious and viral. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact a veterinarian. Most breeders use ethical breeding practices to produce healthy kittens free of genetic defects.
Cost
The cost of a reputable Maine Coon kitten is not cheap. In fact, it can cost up to $1500 for a single kitten. However, a good breeder will only sell kittens that have been neutered or spayed. You should also make sure that the breeder is registered and follows an ethical breeding program.
The price of a kitten will vary based on many factors, but the most important is the health of the kitten. A reputable Maine Coon breeder will provide health certificates and veterinary checks, ensuring the kitten is in top shape. They will also provide pedigree certifications for their kittens, which demonstrates their purebred status.
A reputable breeder will include these costs in the price of the kitten. This way, you’re assured of getting a healthy kitten that is not a domestic longhair cat. In addition, reputable breeders will often include vaccines in their prices. You can also expect the kitten to come with a microchip.
A Maine Coon kitten’s vaccinations are vital for their health. They can help them age well. However, they’re more expensive than those with no or incomplete vaccination history. You may also want to consider whether the breed is spayed or neutered. Although this will decrease the cost of kitten care, you’ll also have to pay for the cost of vet visits.
Maine Coon health care also includes regular grooming. Depending on the breed, these costs can vary. In most cases, the cost of a reputable Maine Coon kitten will depend on the breed, age, and area of residence. You can ask your breeder to provide you with a price quote for a kitten.
In addition to the cost of a Maine Coon kitten, you should consider other expenses. Maine Coons are larger than average house cats and require more food, litter, and medications than average house cats. Purchasing from a reputable breeder is a great way to meet your pet’s needs and stay within your budget.
Besides the price of the Maine Coon kitten, you should also consider the time commitment involved. It may take a few days for your new pet to develop a routine and become accustomed to your surroundings. If you’re willing to make that sacrifice, you’ll be rewarded with a kitten that will grow up healthy.
Where to buy a Maine Coon kitten
If you are considering purchasing a Maine Coon kitten, you should avoid buying one from a pet shop. This is because responsible breeders would not sell kittens to pet shops. Instead, you should do some research. You can start by checking the CFA and contacting a Maine Coon club to find a reputable breeder. These organizations list responsible breeders and will provide you with the necessary paperwork.
Ensure you are buying a purebred kitten. If you find a kitten that’s advertised for sale online, check for photos. Sometimes, unscrupulous sellers will post fuzzy pictures of other animals. Also, research the price to make sure it’s fair. If it is overpriced, you should look elsewhere. Some sellers on Craigslist are not from the United States and might not know the market value for a Maine Coon.
If you are considering buying a kitten, it’s important to look at the health and socialization of the kitten. Maine Coons are very active and require lots of exercise, particularly as kittens. They also need to be exposed to car rides, trains, and children. They’re also known for their large size and luxurious coat, which sets them apart from other domestic cats.
If you want a Maine Coon kitten, make sure you find a reputable breeder. You should be aware that many unscrupulous breeders will sell mixed breed kittens without a genetic test. This is not a good idea, as it can lead to problems with the health of the pet.
Another option for finding a good Maine Coon kitten is to visit a cattery. A good option is Megacoon Cattery in Pittsboro, NC. You can browse their website for kittens or contact the breeders for more information. It may be a good idea to visit the cattery in person before buying a kitten.
You can also purchase adult Maine Coons from shelters or breeders. The cost of these pets can be low and you may even be able to get one for free. You can also adopt a Maine Coon kitten from a local shelter or rescue organization. However, make sure you choose a reputable breeder, as adult cats are always in need of loving homes.
