Do Maine Coons Shed a Lot?

Dealing with shedding – it’s unavoidable as pet parents. But do Maine Coon cats shed a lot? You might expect that with their luxurious long-haired coat they do shed a ton.

For example, this is my girl below and her fabulous coat.

Instead, Maine Coon cats do not actually shed that much, relatively! Compared to other long-haired cat breeds, such as Persians, Maine Coons are more manageable.

Why it Matters

Whether you are a potential Maine Coon parent or want to learn more about your furry friend, it is important to know about your cat’s shedding habits.

The best way to provide care is to know what to expect in the future, including how a cat sheds, factors that affect shedding, and how to manage it for your sanity.

The Process of Shedding

Maine Coon cats originated in the cold climate of the northern state of Maine in the United States. Due to this cold environment that lasts almost all year, they developed a means to stay warm naturally.

Their long coat is made up of two thick, dense undercoats and a guard coat on top. The double undercoat served as excellent protection against the frigid winters of Maine. This is why you won’t find short hair Maine Coons.

Do not expect Maine Coons to never shed. Their fur is like many other cat breeds. It is super fine and will stick to many surfaces effortlessly. Their fur is not hypoallergenic and will aggravate pet dander allergies.

Maine Coon cats also shed the most during the spring and autumn seasons. Temperatures can vary a lot during these months, which means their coats may change to keep them cool when it is warmer outside.

What Affects Shedding?

From my experience as a Maine Coon dad, I can also tell you that shedding can be impacted by factors including temperature, genetics, health, grooming, and diet.

Your cat’s genes can determine how fluffy or silky their fur is, which can influence shedding. Fluffier Maine Coon cats will naturally shed more. 

Temperature

The heat in and around your home can make a Maine Coon cat shed more than they normally do all year round. Their body will recognize if it needs the insulating thickness of its double coat.

If you live somewhere warm or like to crank the thermostat up, expect more shedding as your cat’s body tries to cool them off. 

Health

Pay attention to your Maine Coon cat’s health, too. Excessive shedding can indicate a larger issue than coat quality, such as food allergies, disease, fleas, cancer, or medication side effects.

Lots of shedding outside of their normal seasonal pattern can also be a symptom of feline stress. Check for other signs of stress and try to find the source of the stress in your home.

Nutrition

Proper nutrition leads to a healthy coat in any feline. Make sure your Maine Coon cat gets high quality food containing right amount of protein and fats for optimal coat health. Maybe even look into a cat food for shedding or general skin and coat health.

A nutritional imbalance can lead to excessive shedding and other negative effects.

How To Manage Shedding and Your Maine Coon Cat

Shedding for cats is a natural process. However, cat owners can and should attempt to manage it. You will be happier and your cat will be happier!

Grooming

One of the most common and for Maine Coon cat owners, essential, aspects of coat management is regular grooming. Long-haired breeds like the Maine Coon require brushing, de-shedding, and dematting on at least a weekly basis to control normal shedding.

Baths

A water-loving Maine Coon should also not be a stranger to baths. A regular bath can help control seasonal shedding and help maintain the health of their fur coat. A regular wash will remove dead hair before it falls out on your floor and clothing.

Diet

Keep your cat well-fed with a well-rounded diet and you will not need to worry about excessive shedding. Check the ingredients of your cat food to ensure that it includes omega fatty acids for a healthy coat.

Omega fatty acids are often found in fish products. Protein from meat is also ideal for a cat’s diet and coat health.

Remember to Tidy Up

But no matter how much you brush your cat or provide them with a healthy diet, you will probably deal with some amount of shedding.

Invest in some handy tools, like lint rollers for your clothing. Consistent sweeping and vacuuming around the house with the right tools can go a long way!

Gary H.

I’m Gary Hu, a proud cat dad to a 15 lb Maine Coon. Have taken care of outdoor and indoor cats for over 10 years, and learned tons on behavior, habits, health, and products. I help new Maine Coon (or any other cat) parents with common questions and issues based on real, practical experience.