12 Reasons Why You Should Never Get a Maine Coon Cat

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

Close up of a maine coon
Barbara/Pixabay

Maine Coons are often described as the gentle giants of the cat world, captivating pet lovers with their striking appearance, friendly demeanor, and impressive size. As one of the most popular cat breeds globally, their allure is undeniable. But behind those tufted ears and luxurious coats lies a complex personality that may not suit every household. While Maine Coons are known for their affectionate and playful nature, owning one comes with challenges that might make them less suitable for some owners, and here are 12 reasons why they might not be the perfect fit for you..

1. They’re Far Too Affectionate

cat with grey background
Kanashi/Pixabay

Maine Coons are affection cats, constantly seeking your attention and love. These cats don’t just enjoy your company; they demand it. Whether you’re reading, working, or trying to relax, they’ll climb into your lap or follow you everywhere. If you’re the type of person who treasures personal space, this unrelenting companionship might feel overwhelming. They’ll turn every moment into a bonding session, leaving little time for yourself. While their love is sweet, it’s not for everyone who values quiet, independent time.

2. They Demand Attention

maine coon
Miezekieze/Pixabay

Maine Coons aren’t just social—they’re attention magnets. They’ll follow you around, paw at you for playtime, and even “help” with chores. If you’re not constantly engaging with them, they’ll invent their own ways to stay entertained, often involving your furniture or belongings. Their high energy requires mental stimulation, physical activity, and interactive play. This level of attention can become exhausting for those who prefer independent pets. Owning a Maine Coon means being prepared to dedicate time to their endless need for interaction.

3. They’re Extremely Social

multicoloured maine coon
Annaav/123rf

Maine Coons are the ultimate extroverts in the feline world. These cats thrive on meeting people, often greeting every guest as though they’re long-lost friends. While this trait is charming, it can be overwhelming in social situations where you might want to focus on your guests instead of your cat’s antics. They’ll insert themselves into conversations, demand affection from everyone, and turn your home into their stage. If you’re seeking a reserved or quiet cat, their outgoing personality might not be the right fit.

4. They’re Too Beautiful

Maine coon
miezekieze/Pixabay

Maine Coons are undeniably gorgeous with their long, flowing coats, tufted ears, and expressive eyes. However, their beauty comes at a cost. Visitors won’t stop gushing over them, and you’ll find yourself answering endless questions about your cat’s breed and care routine. Their stunning looks also require frequent maintenance to keep their fur sleek and free of tangles. Their celebrity-like appeal might leave you feeling like their manager, constantly catering to their beauty regimen and fanbase.

5. They Don’t Respect Privacy

Maine Coon
Simon Robben/pexels

Maine Coons are naturally curious and hate being left out of your activities. They’ll follow you into every room, sit outside closed doors, and even join you during private moments like bathroom breaks. If you’re someone who values personal space, this breed’s constant companionship can feel intrusive. They see your presence as an invitation to interact, whether you’re trying to relax or focus on something important. You’ll need to adjust to their all-encompassing love and lack of boundaries.

6. They’re Unbelievably Intelligent

A Maine Coon Cat
Thirdman/pexels

Maine Coons are not only clever but also devious. Their intelligence allows them to solve problems quickly, whether it’s figuring out how to open cupboards, manipulate toys, or charm you into giving extra treats. They enjoy mental challenges and thrive on games that stimulate their minds. However, their cleverness means they might outsmart you at times, leading to unexpected surprises. If you’re not prepared to keep them engaged, their mischievous streak might lead to trouble around your home.

7. Their Grooming Needs Are Exhausting

Grooming a cat
Yanius/123rf

Maine Coons have luscious, thick coats that demand consistent grooming. Without regular brushing, their fur can easily become matted, especially around their necks and underbellies. This grooming routine isn’t just time-consuming but also essential to their comfort and hygiene. You’ll need to invest in high-quality brushes and commit to frequent sessions to maintain their coat. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy grooming or dislikes shedding fur around your home, their luxurious appearance might feel more like a chore than a joy.

8. They’re Chatty Companions

mainecoon
photo/pixabay

Maine Coons have a lot to say, and they’re not shy about it. These cats are highly vocal, communicating through a mix of meows, trills, and chirps. They’ll “talk” to you throughout the day, expressing their needs or simply keeping you company. While many owners find this endearing, it can become disruptive, especially if you work from home or prefer a quieter environment. Their non-stop commentary will make you feel like you’re living with a furry conversationalist who never takes a break.

9. They Love to Play—All the Time

maine coon
Wijs (Wise)/Pexels

Maine Coons retain their kitten-like energy well into adulthood, making playtime a lifelong activity. They’ll chase toys, climb furniture, and explore every nook of your home, expecting you to join in the fun. Their high activity levels mean you’ll need to provide plenty of interactive toys, scratching posts, and dedicated time for play. If you’re not ready to commit to regular engagement, their endless energy and need for stimulation could leave you feeling overwhelmed by their playful demands.

10. They’re Big, Really Big

Black and white Maine coon
Aline (Алевтина) Mueller/Pixabay

Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds, often growing up to 40 inches in length and weighing over 20 pounds. Their size demands accommodations, from larger litter boxes to reinforced furniture. They’ll take up significant space in your home and on your lap, sometimes leaving you feeling crowded. Their strength also means they can accidentally knock things over during play. If your home is small or not cat-proofed, their size and energy might become a challenge to manage.

11. They’ll Take Over Your Life

Maine Coon in the arms of a kid
zurijeta/123rf

Maine Coons are not just pets—they’re full-fledged family members who demand attention and priority. From stealing your seat to climbing into bed with you, they’ll make their presence known in every aspect of your life. Their strong personalities and endearing antics will leave you adjusting your daily routines around their preferences. While their charm is undeniable, owning a Maine Coon means embracing a lifestyle where their needs often come before your own comfort or convenience.

12. They’ll Steal Your Heart

Maine Coon Kittens
Eric Heim/Pixabay

Despite all their quirks, Maine Coons are impossible not to love. Their affectionate nature, playful spirit, and charming personalities make them unforgettable companions. Once you’ve welcomed a Maine Coon into your home, you’ll find it hard to imagine life without them. Their ability to form deep bonds with their owners is their greatest strength—and also their most dangerous trait. They’ll steal your heart and become an irreplaceable part of your family, leaving you completely smitten.

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