Frequently asked questions
Everything you've wondered about Maine Coons and bringing home a Paws & Plumes kitten.
How big do Maine Coons get?
Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic breeds. Adult males commonly weigh about 13 to 18 pounds and females about 8 to 12, and some grow larger. Length, bone, and coat make them look even bigger. Size varies by line, so we never promise a specific weight.
What is their temperament like?
They're known as gentle giants: affectionate, playful, and social without being demanding. Many follow their people from room to room, chirp and trill instead of meowing loudly, and get along well with respectful children, dogs, and other cats. Our kittens are raised around our family dog, so they meet a friendly dog long before they go home.
How much grooming do they need?
Their coat is long but silky and water resistant, so it mats less than many longhaired breeds. Brushing two or three times a week, more during seasonal sheds, plus regular nail trims, usually keeps them comfortable. We start grooming early so kittens arrive used to it.
When are they fully grown?
Maine Coons mature slowly, often taking three to five years to reach full size, coat, and ruff. A one-year-old Maine Coon is still a teenager, so expect a long, fun kittenhood.
Are Maine Coons hypoallergenic?
No cat breed is truly hypoallergenic, and Maine Coons are no exception. If anyone in your home has allergies, please spend time with cats before applying.
How does the deposit work?
Joining the waitlist is free. When a kitten is offered to you, a [$ amount] deposit reserves it and is applied to the price. Deposits are [refundable / non-refundable / transferable to a future litter] under these conditions: [terms]. The balance is due [when]. We accept [payment methods].
When can my kitten come home, and how?
Kittens go home at 12 weeks minimum, once they're vaccinated, vet checked, and emotionally ready. Pickup is in Naples by appointment. [Delivery options: hand delivery within X miles, flight nanny, fees.] [Confirm: we don't ship kittens as cargo.]
Do you require spay or neuter?
[Confirm: pet kittens are placed on a spay/neuter contract, altered before going home / by X months.] Breeding rights are offered only to [approved registered catteries], at [terms].
What health testing do you do?
Our breeding cats undergo comprehensive health and genetic screening, including [list tests, e.g. HCM echocardiogram, HCM DNA panel, SMA, PKD]. Results are listed on each cat's profile and shared on request.
Are your cats registered?
Yes. Paws & Plumes is proudly TICA registered. [Cattery registration name and number]
Can I visit?
Approved applicants may visit by appointment once kittens are [X] weeks old and vaccinated. We limit visits to protect young kittens' health.