Maine Coon
CatLargeWeight 5–11 kgLifespan 9–13 yrs
The gentle giant longhair. HCM carrier rate is high (genetic screening + periodic echo advised); hip dysplasia also occurs in this big cat.
Temperament: Gentle giant, dog-like followership, soft voice
🩺 Common diseases & risks
High
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
High MYBPC3 carrier rate — a must-screen before breeding
Common
Hip dysplasia
A large-cat issue — note any jumping avoidance
Watch
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
Hereditary — DNA test available
Common
Hairballs
Long coat + big body = lots of swallowed fur
📋 Recommended screening & frequency
- #1HCM DNA test (before buying)
- #2Heart echo (once, then annually)
- #3Joint assessment if movement changes
🍚 Nutrition
Big body, big metabolism — quality protein plus weight control; joint supplements per vet advice.
🛁 Daily care
Brush several times weekly; a large, sturdy cat tree; monitor sleeping breath rate.
🔗 Related symptom pages
Tags link to the symptom pages most characteristic of each disease
Not feeling well lately? Assess the urgency in 5 quick steps
Start symptom check →