Maine Coon

Maine Coon Health Problems

While generally a fairly robust breed, Maine Coons are predisposed to a few health conditions including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease and hip dysplasia. Some Maine Coons also have a tendency to become overweight, so their weight and food intake should be closely monitored and controlled.

For more information, take a read through Tips to Help Your Cat Lose Weight.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition where the muscular walls of the heart thicken excessively, reducing its ability to pump blood effectively resulting in heart failure. Although the underlying cause of HCM is not always clear, genetics do appear to be a factor in some cases.

Signs of heart failure may not be apparent in the early stages of the disease, however as the condition progresses and the heart function deteriorates signs of heart failure such as rapid breathing or loss of appetite or other complications may develop. In most cases HCM is first detected at routine health checks when the veterinarian is able to hear an additional heart sound (murmur) or abnormal rhythm. An ultrasound of the heart is then used to confirm the diagnosis and gauge the severity. While there is no cure for HCM the symptoms and progression may be managed with medication.

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a condition most commonly associated with dogs but it can also occur in cats, and Maine Coons appear to be a predisposed breed. When hip dysplasia occurs, the conformation of the hip joint is abnormal. A healthy hip joint operates as a smooth 'ball and socket' type joint, whereas hips affected by dysplasia typically have a flattening of the 'socket' component of the joint, resulting in a shallow joint where the 'ball' or head of the femur is not held securely. This leads to instability of the joint which may cause pain in the young cat and ultimately causes development of osteoarthritis.

Signs of osteoarthritis in cats can be quite subtle, often cats with arthritis will just appear to sleep more, have reduced activity levels and groom themselves less. They may be reluctant to jump up on to high surfaces (such as benches or tables) and can also become aggressive when touched or picked up. If your cat shows signs of arthritis it's important to seek veterinary attention as the symptoms can be managed with a combination of medication like cat arthritis or joint supplements, nutrition, environmental changes and other therapies such as physiotherapy or acupuncture.

Want to know more? Read A Vet's Guide to Managing Arthritis in Cats

Polycystic kidney disease

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a disease where cysts form in the kidney, disrupting its normal function and leading to kidney failure. It is known to have a genetic linkage in Maine Coon cats and can be screened for using genetic testing. While PKD is an autosomal dominant trait, meaning that all cats with the gene are affected, there does appear to be varying degrees of severity. When purchasing a Maine Coon kitten from a breeder, it's a good idea to ask if the parents have been screened for PKD and if there is any history of the disease in their kittens.

Maine Coon Diet and Nutrition

As Maine Coon cats can have a predisposition to weight gain, a food with a moderate calorie level and nutrition geared towards joint and heart health is an ideal choice. Feeding regular wet food meals along with dry kibble is a simple way to increase your Maine Coon's water intake to ensure adequate hydration and help support urinary tract health.

Top dry foods for adult Maine Coon cats

Advance Healthy Weight

This Australian made formula contains nutrients to support health and wellbeing in neutered cats while being lower in calories to help prevent weight gain.

Royal Canin Adult Maine Coon

With kibble specially designed to be appealing to Maine Coon cats, this formula contains targeted nutrition to support joint, heart, skin and coat health.

Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight

This premium quality, highly digestible formula contains a unique blend of ingredients designed to support the maintenance of a healthy weight.

Open Farm Wild Caught Salmon

This all natural, limited ingredient food for cats is made with salmon and ocean whitefish meal, so it's naturally high in omega fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat.