If you are considering purchasing a Maine Coon kitten, you may be wondering where to find a reputable breeder. The following article will provide you with some information regarding locating a reputable breeder, cost, and how to care for your new kitten. You will also learn about the unique characteristics of this cat breed.
Polydactyl trait in Maine Coon
Polydactyl cats can exhibit either a snowshoe foot pattern or mitten paws. Danforth and Chapman observed examples of both. The Maine Coon and Pixie Bob exhibit the mitten paw pattern. The polydactyl cat’s supernumerary digits are arranged on the medial side of the foot.
The polydactyl trait has a long and fascinating history in the Maine Coon breed. It has greatly influenced their appearance and breeding and has been a major factor in the popularity of the breed at cat shows. One of its most famous owners, Mrs. E. R. Pearce, is known for her famous book, Captain-Jinks of the Horse-Marines, which has become a household name among Maine Coon enthusiasts.
Polydactyl is a genetic trait that occurs in 40 to 50 percent of kittens. The extra digits are typically in the form of dewclaws or toes. The King Maine Coon has a high polydactyl percentage compared to the other breeds, and these cats are often considered special.
The Polydactyl trait is not harmful for the cat. The extra toes are fully functional. According to historians, Maine Coons inherited this trait from ship cats that needed more balance and grip. Because the trait is autosomal dominant, Maine Coon cats are statistically more likely to produce polydactyl kittens than other cats. Moreover, breeding two polydactyl cats in a litter increases their chances of producing polydactyl kittens.
Registered breeders
The CFA and TICA have two separate registration bodies for Maine Coon Cats. The first is in Utah and the other is in the state of Colorado. These are the nearest registered breeders, but there are no breeders in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, or North Dakota. While PetsKB makes no guarantees as to the breeding practices of any breeder, we do recommend that you do your research so you can make an informed purchase decision.
If you are planning to purchase a Maine Coon, it is important to find a reputable breeder who has a good reputation for quality cats. A reputable Maine Coon cat breeder will have a well-maintained cattery with plenty of room for the kittens to run and play. The breeder will also be certified by TICA and CFA, and will perform health tests on every kitten before selling it to you.
A well-established Maine Coon breeder will have a website with up-to-date information about their Maine Coon kittens. They will also provide you with a full vaccination history and results of genetic testing. In addition to a well-maintained website, a reputable breeder will also offer life-time support and help. They will post updates on social media and interact with their followers regularly.
Maine Coons are gentle and friendly, and make great pets. A Maine Coon is also a good choice for families with children. They get along well with children and dogs. In fact, they are often bigger than Fido! They also tend to be sociable, and will help with various tasks such as reading and crossword puzzles.
Cost of a Maine Coon kitten
The average price of a Maine Coon kitten ranges from $400 to $2,000, and the price of a superior pedigree Maine Coon breeder can cost upwards of $3,500. In addition, kittens with rare colors may cost more. These prices are expected to rise as demand for these cats increases. However, the cost of a Maine Coon kitten can be much lower if you purchase an adult or retired cat. The price of a Maine Coon depends on a number of factors, including the size and breed of the kitten, the breeder’s experience and the effort they put into producing the kitten. Generally, breeders will microchip their kittens and provide them with the appropriate shots for their age.
While some breeders require a deposit of $400 to purchase a Maine Coon kitten, you can also choose to adopt one from a shelter or rescue. Adopting a pet can reduce your costs and provide a much-needed home for an animal in need.
Although Maine Coon cats are expensive, you can find inexpensive alternatives for many items. Keep in mind that kittens grow up fast and will require constant care, which may increase the price. In addition, it is important to remember that the cost of a Maine Coon will vary from year to year. It is important to shop around for the best deal. A good breeder will provide a pedigree certificate, which attests to the purebred status of the cat.
Care of a Maine Coon kitten
Maine Coons are known for their love of water. This makes keeping them clean a breeze, and their short coat means they don’t leave a lot of dander or oils behind. They also require minimal litter box maintenance, typically requiring a once-a-week cleaning. The Maine Coon also enjoys lots of attention and interaction from their humans.
While their small size and low maintenance requirements make them easy to take care of, they do require extra grooming and feeding. They may also require a larger litter box and cat carrier. Maine Coons are one of the easiest cats to care for. They also require minimal veterinary care.
To prevent a Maine Coon kitten from developing any health issues, it’s important to provide a high-quality diet. A balanced diet of meat, fish, and vegetables is important for these animals. Meat protein should make up one-third of a Maine Coon’s diet, while vegetables and grains should make up the rest.
One of the most common health problems associated with Maine Coons is polycystic kidney disease, or PKD, which causes cysts to develop in the kidneys. If untreated, PKD can lead to organ failure. Symptoms of PKD include frequent urination, loss of appetite, vomiting, and lethargy. If left untreated, the condition can progress to a serious stage and may even require surgery.
Health of a Maine Coon kitten
While Maine Coons are known for being very healthy cats, there are some hereditary health problems associated with this breed. You should be wary of breeders who aren’t experienced in caring for this type of cat, and check for these issues before buying one. Some common health issues include spinal muscular atrophy, hip dysplasia, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
If your kitten’s heart is weak, it can be a sign of a serious underlying problem. Maine Coons may also show lameness in their hind legs and may be unable to jump. If you suspect your cat may have this disease, you can begin preventative measures immediately. Early treatment can improve the outcome of the disease.
A Maine Coon kitten is very playful and energetic. They are also good with kids and other pets. As long as you give them a good home, they will make great pets. Their coat is long and thick, with a waterproof undercoat and a glossy top coat. In addition to the fur on the body, your kitten will also have a long tail that can be wrapped around the body for added insulation.
While Maine Coons are not generally susceptible to any serious health problems, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions. For example, some cats can suffer from a heart condition known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Although HCM is hereditary, the disease is treatable and treatment can improve the quality of life of a Maine Coon kitten.
Observations to make before buying a Maine Coon kitten
While Maine Coons are generally healthy and hardy, there are some health concerns that you should be aware of before buying one of these kittens. A reputable breeder will answer questions and provide advice to help you care for your new pet. Ask about the health of the parents and the queen’s litter history, and ask about pedigree papers, microchipping, and other health information.
Always ask to see the mother, siblings, and father before buying the kitten. A good breeder will give you a full set of papers, including a signed pedigree and transfer of ownership. They should also provide you with an information sheet and diet sheet. If a breeder does not provide these, do not buy the kitten.
Ask about the vaccinations. If you want to get a Maine Coon kitten, make sure that it has undergone all of the recommended vaccinations. Also, make sure that the cattery is not breeding multiple times a year. This can lead to unintended results. You should only buy Maine Coon kittens from reputable breeders who produce a single litter per year. A good breeder will also rest the queens between litters.
Another thing to look for before buying a Maine Coon kitten at a Maine Coon cattery is the breed’s temperament. These cats are naturally friendly, although they will often be reserved and protective with strangers.
