Maine Coons are known for their massive size, flowing manes, and gentle-giant personalities—but as you can imagine, it takes the right kind of fuel to power those growing bodies! Whether you’re raising a rascally kitten or keeping your regal adult cat in tip-top shape, knowing what (and how much!) to feed your Maine Coon is key to a long, healthy life.
Let’s dive into what’s best for these furry friends at every stage of their nine lives.
Maine Coon Kittens: Hungry & Growing (Slow & Steady)
What to Feed:
Maine Coon kittens grow slowly and steadily—they don’t reach full size until they’re 3–5 years old! So you want to feed them a high-protein, high-calorie kitten food specifically formulated for large breeds (or at least for active kittens). Look for:
- Real meat as the first ingredient
- No fillers (corn, soy, or meat by-products)
- Added DHA for brain and eye development
- Wet food + dry food combo: Wet food keeps them hydrated and helps with texture variety; dry food helps with dental health.
Here at Finn Manor, we start feeding the kittens Nulo pate at around 6 weeks as they start weaning. By 8 weeks, we start supplementing a bit of Royal Canin Maine Coon.
How Much and How Often:
Kittens are like hobbit children—they need multiple meals a day:
- 8–12 weeks: 4 meals a day
- 3–6 months: 3 meals a day
- 6–12 months: 2–3 meals a day
Maine Coons are prone to becoming chonky if free-fed, so stick to measured portions and adjust based on growth and activity levels.
Pro Tip:
Use a shallow, wide bowl—those whiskers don’t like getting squished!
Mature Maine Coons: Big Cats, Big Appetites
What to Feed:
Adult Maine Coons need nutrient-dense food, but not as calorie-heavy as kitten chow. Choose a premium adult formula that supports:
- Joint health (glucosamine/chondroitin)
- Heart health (taurine is a must!)
- Lean muscle maintenance
- Options for sensitive stomachs or hairball control if needed
Some brands even offer Maine Coon-specific formulas with bigger kibble sizes, which these big-mouthed beauties appreciate. We have four adult Maine Coons at Finn Manor, and we feed them a mix of dry Royal Canin Maine Coon, and wet Purnia Fancy Feast.
How Much and When:
Every cat is unique, but as a rough guide:
- Males (13–18 lbs): 250–350 calories/day
- Females (8–12 lbs): 200–300 calories/day
- If your cat is larger, add an extra 25-50 calories per pound of weight
- Split this into 2–3 meals per day, and adjust if your cat starts gaining or losing weight unexpectedly.
Avoid free feeding unless you’re using a puzzle feeder or your cat self-regulates (rare for food-loving Coons!).
Pro Tip:
Maine Coons love a routine. Feeding at the same times each day helps them feel secure—and reduces the chances of 4 a.m. yowling.
Bonus Tips & Treats
- Hydration is key! Consider a pet fountain to encourage drinking, especially if your Coon is dry-food dominant.
- Add variety with occasional boiled chicken, cooked fish, or freeze-dried meat treats—just make sure they’re plain and safe for cats.
- Want a raw or homemade diet? Talk to your vet first. These cats have specific nutritional needs and it’s easy to get the balance wrong.
Final Thoughts: Feed with Love (and a Little Science)
Feeding your Maine Coon the right diet is part science, part intuition, and all heart. Watch their weight, energy levels, coat condition, and litter box habits. A shiny coat, steady energy, and happy purrs are your best indicators that you’re doing it right.
Whether your Maine Coon is bouncing off the walls or lounging like a fuzzy emperor, a good diet keeps them thriving.