Question 1

Nutrition Recommendation:

Accepted Answer

For food, our cats get a well balanced meal of wet food twice a day and dry food out 24/7. If you would have the opportunity, we would typically even recommend keeping your kitty completely on wet food with more frequent feedings. (Only as long as it is a balanced meal!) 
Otherwise, wet food is still a key component in any cats routine.

For kibble, our adult cats are on a mix of Open Farm RawMix - Open Prairie (https://openfarmpet.com/products/open-prairie-recipe-for-cats?_pos=1&_psq=rawmix+cat&_ss=e&_v=1.0)and Royal Canin (https://www.royalcanin.com/us/cats/products/retail-products?breed=maine_coon&digital_sub_category=dry_food)- Indoor,(https://www.royalcanin.com/us/cats/products/retail-products/indoor-adult-2529?queryId=2eb7d8fabd5964eab27646f1bef9e216&objectId=336775&source=gs) Maine Coon Adult,(https://www.royalcanin.com/us/cats/products/retail-products/maine-coon-adult-2550?queryId=fd021590c757fb63485878189c683185&objectId=336830&source=gs) Persian Adult,(https://www.royalcanin.com/us/cats/products/retail-products/persian-adult-2552?queryId=236dcfa8475c29c3cf2e67a2bbb28c25&objectId=336834&source=gs) alongside Appetite Control (https://www.royalcanin.com/us/cats/products/retail-products/appetite-control-care-2563?queryId=8f1c9d9803b1ca609d4693540b63dc0e&objectId=1047678&source=gs)for our retirees to avoid getting overweight. 
Our kittens are on a mix of Open Farm Kitten - Chicken & Turkey (https://openfarmpet.com/products/dry-kitten-food)and Royal Canin Kitten (https://www.royalcanin.com/us/cats/products/retail-products/kitten-2522?queryId=5e734a2b46772e88b64d0cd4c5b05114&objectId=1046419&source=gs)and Persian Kitten.(https://www.royalcanin.com/us/cats/products/retail-products/persian-kitten-2554) We recommend continuing with the kitten diet until 1 year of age, due to Maine Coons being a slow growing breed.

We also highly recommend Ziwi Peak Air tried - Beef, Lamb or Venison (https://us.ziwipets.com/products/air-dried-beef-recipe-for-cats?variant=44599570202923)(has no chicken or fish!) and Wellness Core - Turkey & Chicken.(https://www.wellnesspetfood.com/natural-cat-food/core/?category=dry&brand=core&sort=brand)

Fun Fact: The Persian foods are great for maintaining fur health for long haired cats.

Twice a day, our cats also get wet food, with majority preferring Raw Meat. Our cats get a home-made mix,(https://hare-today.com/feline-nutrition/nutrition/making-raw-cat-food-for-do-it-yourselfers) however we can also recommend a pre-made brand called VivaRaw,(https://vivaraw.superfiliate.com/CRYSTALSTAR) Specifically their Cat Complete Mix Beef and Rabbit. (This direct link will offer you a 20% discount!)
- No matter the raw mix brand you continue with, we highly encourage continuing with beef or other meats besides chicken, as surprisingly many cats are allergic or can develop allergies on it! We only recommend chicken in treats or organs. 
Also avoid any dog or supposed "cat AND dog" blends. They typically have heightened amounts of bones and such which can actually be harmful for a cats health.

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4e7fcd_184466f9d087432fab32da1d705a002c~mv2.png

If you would like to learn even more, there is a great Facebook group called: Cats Completely Raw And Proud (Cat CRAP).  (https://m.facebook.com/groups/CatCrap/?)

If meat is not an option, we would highly recommend the following wet food  or freeze dried (that you can rehydrate with bone broth or warm water) brands: 
Open Farm - Wet Food,(https://openfarmpet.com/collections/all-wet-cat-food) Freeze Dried,(https://openfarmpet.com/collections/freeze-dried-cat-food-toppers) Bone Broth (https://openfarmpet.com/products/grass-fed-beef-bone-broth-cats)
(Open Farm has great fish options, however avoid having it as a constant ingredient. Overfeeding fish can cause a handful of urinary complications.)
Tiki Cat Wet (https://tikipets.com/cat/after-dark/)- We also recommend their treats over other brands!
Weruva Wet Food(https://www.weruva.com/collections/find-your-food?sort_by=manual&filter.p.m.custom.pet=For+Cats&filter.p.m.custom.product_type=Wet+Food)
Ziwi Peak Canned (https://us.ziwipets.com/products/variety-pack-beef-lamb-and-venison?variant=52024152555886)- We recommend the flavors outside of chicken and fish (AKA beef, lamb and venison.)

To balance out a cats diet for full health, they need way more than just beef or kibble. Here are a few toppers we highly recommend! 
(Remember that these are meant to be given in moderation as a support/treat, not with every meal.)

Quail Egg Yolk - 1-2 times a week
Pumpkin - every other day to once a week
(Either as 100% organic canned Pumpkin - about 1 table spoon, or as a dry supplement)(https://a.co/d/2icPmYk)
Bone Broth (https://openfarmpet.com/products/grass-fed-beef-bone-broth-cats)- once a day
Chicken Hearts - once a day 
(Recommended especially if not feeding a raw mix)

Northwest Naturals Freeze Dried Raw (https://www.nw-naturals.net/product/cat-nibbles/)- can be a consistent topper or treat
Stella & Chewy's Dust Topper (https://www.stellaandchewys.com/collections/shop-cat-food/products/maries-magical-dinner-dust-cat-cage-free-chicken?variant=45410434679041)
Ziwi Peak Air Dried(https://us.ziwipets.com/products/air-dried-beef-recipe-for-cats?variant=44599570202923)
Vital Essentials Crunchy mini-nibs(https://www.vitalessentials.com/products/freeze-dried-raw-beef-chicken-entree-mini-nibs-cat-food)
Vital Essentials Soft nibs(https://www.vitalessentials.com/products/freeze-dried-beef-chicken-entree-cat-food-soft-nibs)

Even occasionally giving either of these once given the chance is great for supporting your kitties health!

If you ever need help or need nutritional advice in regards to Maine Coons, please feel free to reach out to us!

Question 2

Litter box Recommendation:

Accepted Answer

We prefer automatic litter boxes. Large, open-top litter boxes are a must for this breed, so Neakasa i(https://neakasa.com/collections/cat-litter-box)s our personal favorite recommendation. 
Our kittens are also first introduced to automated litter boxes through a smaller option: Meowant,(https://meowant.com/products/meowant-self-cleaning-cat-litter-box-mw-sc02) which is still a great option for Maine Coons on the smaller side - but can get too small for larger boys.

Another great option for any sizes is the PetSafe Classic Self-Cleaning litter box.(https://www.petsafe.com/p/scoopfree-classic-self-cleaning-litter-box/PAL00-17296/?sku=PAL00-17296&collection-location=%252Fshop%252Fcat%252Flitter-boxes-and-litter%252Flitter-boxes%252F)

For litter, we prefer World's Best Cat Litter!(https://www.worldsbestcatlitter.com/natural-cat-litter/) Our personal favorites are the Poop Fighter (https://www.worldsbestcatlitter.com/poop-fighter-litter/)and Low Tracking & Dust Control (https://www.worldsbestcatlitter.com/low-tracking-dust-control-litter/)options. 
We find this option to work great with any type of litter box, while also having unscented options, and being ecofriendly and overall healthy for you and your cat!

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4e7fcd_5ed287462a564c3581a404d05a5e430c~mv2.png

Question 3

Videos to watch before getting a Maine coon:

Accepted Answer

• 19 Things to Expect When You Get a Maine Coon Kitten (Click here!) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHHCIwGXfwc)
 • Stuff to Buy Before Getting a Maine Coon (Click Here!) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XldWJbIDttM)
 • Maine Coon Cat Breed Characteristics, Facts & Personality Explained (Click here!) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64e49wfd-Mo)

Question 4

Products we Recommend:

Accepted Answer

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4e7fcd_2b74add39f46466db442ed4dd8d4e2ec~mv2.jpg
Cat Trees:

For Maine coons, we recommend investing in a good, big and strong cat tree. They are big cats, and need a tree that will support their weight, and give them space to jump around on and stretch out as needed.

My cats personally love this cat tree from amazon!  
- 77.5" Cat Tree (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09Q17KCMZ/ref=twister_B09VC2SXN2?_encoding=UTF8&th=1)

Here is also a cheaper alternative I have!
- 69" Cat Tree (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09QCSJ7CQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4e7fcd_e80a4057053b4cf5b6cba79e11c32843~mv2.jpg
Scratchers:

All cats will need at least a few scratchers around the house, the more the better. Scratchers are useful to cats for many reasons. Many cats scratch their claws as a form of exercise and marking territory, it is a self-soothing motion most cats do.  It also helps them maintain their nail health, keeping their claws nice and sharp. It will also prevent any unpleasant scratching all over your furniture and carpets!

My cats also like to sleep in their scratchers, so I like to have many different shapes and sizes for them to choose from! 
- Lounge Bed Scratcher(https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004X6UEH6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
- Scratcher Toy (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08J7RQ337/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&th=1)
- Circular Scratcher  (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08L39D87D/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&th=1)
- Scratching Post (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07W865K8N/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4e7fcd_4a99c1922be4442bb9f92f9205f22994~mv2.jpg
Grooming Supplies:

Getting a Maine coon means getting a long haired cat, which requires a lot of grooming and care. You will need to figure out a schedule between you and your kitty for constant brushing, baths and nail trimming.

Here are a few things you'll need that you should be able to find at your nearest pet store or any online store! 
- Nail Clippers (https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Clipper-Trimmers-Clippers-Kitten/dp/B0916P2CNB/ref=sr_1_5?crid=UE5I629O3E9G&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.AXp457pv_3tAvN6a6oSNx8pf-0FvoT4nl_wmXBQEVesbua1FhLoLSvUieaoOgfkB8vigQ7P8a_umpYgUyE22BKm6Rx6GXtUKm3y4mpgN-NsMsaXQ_lTsiuNHfmPBImS1KJRMTnQ_jPmlwD4j1VC4xHtKOTklwek2N0gNehJU37gA-01ui9RGK3Xi-LCsrDefV02oUphzGvXN8_zsW2TX89rc9WJCJcz2zqVn84WrUn0d8uyDq6wWPcYzHq9ojKOs4ItXJa-m9E7qWtKbW95TE-9188RuJy2HtKvl2QOr784.J_2Xu2cgu5WMJzsKAmf2KKNZaHy8kVRDVmDd9LuDNvM&dib_tag=se&keywords=cat%2Bnail%2Btrimmers&qid=1729464311&s=pet-supplies&sprefix=cat%2Bnail%2Btrimmers%2Cpets%2C174&sr=1-5&th=1)
- Comb Brushes ((https://www.amazon.com/Cafhelp-Stainless-Removing-Professional-Grooming/dp/B07V5M8LBT/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1X0L4LN74P13N&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gIBqWdx6m0u4XpUzOg1TtCaN1Hn5QF2j2Mb0kiUY7k7gSmiZ2RMcfDTOtCDLOZN06cSPbmZYSlUGSwkHWdezjn28N9vPjO40eZVtOJQWloXSv5YhGQ3m1Dk7GuQpQ7pbiPSuKtVM8WJtb4kxzLYyw_uVOuNeSy9pozhmgAsuZ3tnwgod6vR5qeAU6B1u5SlvqA5e4hHsfpDn1ocFLivdHWFcngay_vTE7aVdL0Abtx-yc-UOXdUU58pp5WI5n0KXgtn3vaWbfmeNWE3WsK38s2SsxQqheXJrqmzM7okZu_E.lRyo7Q1CCx_hkphpWAOmpMlx_nJaXyfHmXpqVy4ezvk&dib_tag=se&keywords=cat+comb&qid=1729464196&s=pet-supplies&sprefix=cat+comb%2Cpets%2C217&sr=1-4)Do not use a de-shedding brush, it can rip out and damage their coat.) 
- Dematting Spray (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B093NN29QZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
- Toothpaste and Brush (https://www.amazon.com/Virbac-Control-Enzymatic-Toothpaste-Poultry/dp/B00RZDXA7K/ref=sr_1_2?crid=17EA9GYJ0USSA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.3TgMCEk41gs96LTbn4yVB_G3wuUPCxHLl6HIsXm4CkP0DFA0kIHFqvzjkzF41bCFDjEGfYDGPuESHZ25ON88-ZHVxlfXd7u4TaRCZr2dg1uGZi4xSDhgF8zNC3DfK0Qx6bn0bod5X7CyDhisS-1O9o8AYGdAqKU13hI7bc_TfJ46sf8Md629vA6uS7nS3K85g-RNsxlUi7o9a6bvY5wu2xW1WRMtyvLE9UQPe8VOTtekBJx9efX85e_rixsMgAEcipfjOjvlJWSvFwGMcdmp7SLQCzVbQ_Js4PTaLTWeCRg.Fk7JJsR87fCaP8IYUHgjuIufxD1WRYyyVXr5Fn_9BhI&dib_tag=se&keywords=Enzymatic%2BTartar%2BControl%2BToothpaste%2Cpoultry%2BFlavor%2C%2B2.5%2BOz&qid=1729464377&rdc=1&sprefix=enzymatic%2Btartar%2Bcontrol%2Btoothpaste%2Cpoultry%2Bflavor%2C%2B2.5%2Boz%2Caps%2C159&sr=8-2&th=1)
- Eye and Face Cleansers  (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VC1Y1F2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
- Cleanse Shampoo (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004YU7O4M/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
- Coat Shampoo (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QIRM8JA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
- Conditioner (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QIRLYIG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

If you would like an even more in-depth, show-quality groom, we highly recommend Grooming By Parita!(https://tildoniadolls.com/grooming-by-parita)

Carriers:

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4e7fcd_74e04c123ce4427c997555f0633f3714~mv2.jpg
For carriers, a Maine coon will need a spacious and sturdy one, that will fit them comfortably and support their weight.

For this, we recommend Sturdi Products Pet Carriers (https://sturdiproducts.com/collections/sturdibag-pro-2-0)of the larger sizes. While they are quite spendy, we think it is definitely worth the investment.

Question 5

How to help your Maine coon adjust to a new home:

Accepted Answer

When you bring a new kitten or cat into your home, you should expect the cat to need some time to adjust to its new environment. Cats aren't big fans of change, and moving into a new home is a significant deal for them. Some cats can get stressed over the smallest change, like moving a piece of furniture or seeing another cat outside the window.

Here's some general rules of thumb to help you better understand your cat and the changes they are going through when adjusting to a new environmental change.

The major adjustment period is the first three to seven days your kitten is in its new home. Everything is new, all of the people are strangers, and the smells and sounds are different.

This can be overwhelming to the kitten and worse for an adult cat. To keep your kitty as stress-free as possible, keep your Maine Coon in confined to one room (a bathroom or bedroom) for at least one week, two if possible. While in isolation, you can monitor how he eats, drinks, and uses the litter box. You can also spend time and build up a bond with him in his safe place without him feeling like he needs to run and hide.

You need to be patient during these first few weeks because some cats are very nervous and may want to hide. Others will be more confident  and act like they are unfazed. Regardless of the initial reaction that your cat gives, it’s essential to keep the kitten or cat confined to help him to get used to his new home and litter box location.

If your kitten seems to be acclimated after a few weeks, it’s time to introduce him to the rest of the home, and other pets if you have them.

After three weeks, your Maine Coon is getting comfortable and settled into the routines in the new home and is becoming familiar with when meal time is. He should have a fun run of the house by now. Se sure to provide him with scratching posts in various locations, his beds, toys and blankets.

Your kitten will start to feel like he’s at home now. Please note that not all cats will be on an exact schedule as written here. Some will be more comfortable sooner, and others may take longer to adjust. Every cat is different!

Be patient and keep in mind that cats are little beings, and they do things on their own time. Eventually, they will all adjust if given the proper nurturing and will be happy pets forever.