Do Maine Coon Cats Shed a Lot? Understanding the Facts

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Maine Coons are big fluffy balls of fur. Due to their hairy appearance, they are rumoured as big shadders. So, do Maine Coon cats shed? It’s true, these fluffy felines do shed, but not more than other breeds. The amount of shedding can vary depending on the environment, genetics, diet, and grooming habits. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the shedding habits of Maine Coon cats and what you can do to manage it. The short answer is yes, they shed, but there’s more to the story than that.

Maine Coon Shedding Habits Explained

Maine Coon cats are recognisable for their long, flowing, and dense coats. The coat is designed to protect the cat from the harsh winters of Maine, the breed’s place of origin. Their thick, long coats helped protect them from the cold but also mean that they shed heavily as the weather warmed up. The shedding process allows them to adapt to changing temperatures and remain comfortable. Today, a domesticated breed, Maine Coons still retain their natural shedding habits due to their genetic heritage.

In general, Maine Coons shed seasonally or twice a year, typically in the spring and fall. This natural process is called “blowing coat,” triggered by changes in daylight hours and temperature. During this shedding process, some Maine Coons can shed an excessive amount of fur, leaving a significant amount of hair over clothes, furniture, and floors. Maine Coon kittens, on the other hand, typically do not shed their fur until they become adults.

While Maine Coons experience a large-scale seasonal coat change, a healthy cat typically only sheds lightly throughout the year, like other house cats. That being said, if a Maine Coons sheds more frequently or excessively, there might be an underlying health or anxiety issue. We’ll take a look at those factors in detail in this article.

How Much Do Maine Coon Cats Shed

The amount of shedding in Maine Coons varies from cat to cat and also by time of year. We have 4 Maine Coons:

• Mila is an almost entirely black female cat with finer, softer, almost silky fur compared to her siblings. 
• Max and Lexi are much larger with much more dense fur, like big teddy bears. Their colouring is tabby-like with greys, browns, and blacks – exactly what you think when someone says “Maine Coon”. 
• Lastly, there’s Bean, the mother of our cats. Bean is between Mila, Max, and Lexi in terms of a medium density of fur and softness. Bean’s colouring is a combination of whites and greys. 

We don’t really notice any of Mila’s black and finer fur around the house, although we have a lot of lighter grey-coloured surfaces and floors. We do notice Max and Lexi’s fur, typically in their favourite sleeping spots, but definitely not all through the house. To a lesser degree, we see Beans fur too, but this is only really in her two favourite sleeping spots. 

As well as favourite sleeping spots, our Maine Coons have a couple of favourite grooming spots in the house and the garden. One is the walkway leading from our living room to our kitchen. Max, in particular, likes to plop himself in full view of everyone, precisely where you need to walk by, and proceed to aggressively groom himself whilst making quite a bit of eye contact, which is both very cute and quite hilarious at times. The result of his favourite habit is the occasional clump of fur on the floor from his mane, which can but quite thick in Manie Coons. 

Given where he likes to do this, it can be noticeable, but you can easily pick up clumps like this as you walk by. All this considered, we generally run the vacuum around the house once or twice a week and usually fill it up. 

Fur is a factor when deciding to bring a Maine Coon into your home, but our experience having Maine Coons for about seven years now hasn’t been any different from any other cats or dogs we’ve had in the past. In fact, it’s probably a little better than previous breeds of cat we’ve had. So you shouldn’t be put off by the thought of excessive shedding. And, well, the benefit of having a big fluffy teddy bear cuddling you makes any minor issues completely acceptable.

Does Shedding Depend on the Time of Year?

Yes. Like most pets, Maine Coons shed a little more as summer comes around, and they lose their winter coats. They add on quite a bit of extra fluff as winter approaches and a little extra mass, too, as our cats demand a little more meat each day. Naturally, this prepares them for winter as they can be quite outdoorsy. Sometimes it can be hard to tell what’s extra weight and what’s fur, though.

As summer comes around, they shed a little extra, and their coats become thinner. And in our case, they seem to drop a small amount of weight and tend to want more dried food than meat. However, these changes do not seem to significantly change our vacuuming schedule or how much fur we pick up with the vacuum. We don’t tend to notice much change in the fur around the home, if there are any differences. But we do in our cats’ appearance or how they feel to the touch.

How Much Maine Coon Cats Shed Compared to Other Breeds

Maine Coon cats shed a moderate amount compared to other breeds. Shedding is a natural process for all cats and some breeds shed more than others. 

The main factor that influences shedding is the length and thickness of a cat’s coat. Maine Coon cats have a double-layered coat. The undercoat is soft, dense, and shorter, while the topcoat is longer, coarser, and water-resistant. This double-layered coat provides insulation and protection from the environmental elements, making Maine Coon cats well-suited to their native cold climate.

Maine Coons, with their dense undercoat and long topcoat, typically shed seasonally in the spring and autumn. However, they shed less than the other long-haired breeds. Long-haired breeds such as the Persian, Himalayan, and Norwegian Forest Cat tend to shed heavily, often requiring daily brushing to prevent matting and hairballs. 

Breeds with short hair, on the other hand, tend to shed less than their long-haired counterparts. The Siamese, Sphynx, and Bengal are examples of short-haired breeds that shed less than the Maine Coon. These breeds still shed, but their shorter fur means that the shedding is less noticeable and requires less grooming.

Another factor that influences shedding is the individual cat’s genetics and lifestyle. Cats with specific coat colours or patterns may shed more than others, and cats that spend more time outdoors may shed more due to exposure to the elements. Stress and health issues can also increase shedding, but we will discuss that further in this article. 

Excessive Shedding – When Does Hair Loss Become a Concern

While shedding is a natural process in Maine Coons it can be difficult to determine when shedding becomes a concern. Unhealthy excessive shedding in Maine Coons can be recognised by the presence of bald patches, thinning hair, or excessive hair loss on certain parts of their body. Excessive shedding is usually a sign of underlying health issues or improper grooming. Moreover, excessive shedding can be a symptom of:

1. Allergies
2. Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and other parasites 
3. Fungal or bacterial infections
4. Stress and anxiety
5. Hormonal imbalances
6. Poor diet and nutrition
7. Serious health issues: Liver and kidney disease, cancer, or endocrine disorders

To determine the cause of excessive shedding and bald patches in your Maine Coon, you must take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation. Your vet can perform a physical exam, take blood tests, and perform skin tests to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. 

Factors that Affect a Maine Coon Cat’s Shedding

There are several factors that affect Maine Coon’s coat appearance, health, and shedding volume. Environmental as well as nurturing, and health factors can keep the cat’s regular shedding cycle in order or induce concerning chronic shedding. Below, we will observe in detail all the factors that affect Main Coon’s shedding volume and patterns. 

Health Problems

A cat’s coat quality is a great indicator of its overall health and well-being. Excessive shedding, dull-looking coat, and patchy skin are noticeable indicators that something might be wrong. Many underlying health issues in Maine Coons may result in excessive shedding and fur damage. 

Here are some of the most common health-induced causes of excessive shedding in Maine Coons:

1. Skin allergies: Maine Coon cats can develop allergies to various environmental factors, such as pollen, dust, or certain types of food. Allergies can cause skin irritation, which can lead to excessive shedding.

2. Parasite Infestation: Fleas, ticks, and other parasites can cause skin irritation and hair loss. Maine Coon cats that spend time outdoors or around other animals are at higher risk of acquiring parasitic infestations.

3. Fungal or bacterial infections: Fungal or bacterial infections can also cause skin irritation and hair loss. The symptoms are usually red, inflamed skin, and excessive shedding.

4. Hormonal imbalance: Most commonly caused by an overactive thyroid gland or hypothyroidism, it can cause excessive shedding and hair loss. Hormone imbalances caused by pregnancy or sterilisation surgery can also result in excessive shedding.

5. Liver disease: toxins can build up in the body when the liver is not functioning properly and may cause a range of symptoms, including; lethargy, poor appetite, and weight loss. Additionally, liver disease can affect the production of hormones and proteins important for healthy hair growth, contributing to excessive shedding.

6. Kidney disease: Similar to liver problems, toxins can accumulate in the bloodstream when the kidneys are not functioning properly. As with liver disease, these symptoms can lead to a cat’s coat becoming dull and thin and may contribute to excessive shedding.

7. Side-effects of medication:  Some medications can cause hair loss or excessive shedding as a side effect, while others can affect the cat’s overall health, leading to hair loss or shedding. Medications like chemotherapy drugs, steroids, some antibiotics, or antifungal medications may result in abnormal shedding. 

Temperature and Humidity 

Excessive shedding is not always a result of severe health issues or problems. Since Maine Coons’ thick coat is made for a harsh winter climate, they can shed excessively all year round if the living environment is constantly warm and humid. Since their fur acts as a thermal regulator, exposure to heat and humidity will certainly make them shed profusely.

If the temperature is constantly high, the cat will start shedding excess hair to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. Additionally, humidity can also affect a cat’s shedding patterns. High humidity can cause the hair to become moist and heavy, making it more likely to shed. 

If this is the case, it is necessary to brush the cat regularly so it easily loses the excessive fur to avoid matting. Improper grooming, in this case, may also result in bald patches. Moreover, excess fur can accumulate and lead to matting or hairballs, which can be uncomfortable for the cat and may cause them to groom themselves aggressively, thus shed more excessively.

Stress and Anxiety

When a cat experiences stress or anxiety, it can trigger a physiological response that can affect the cat’s skin and coat. Prolonged stress causes hormonal changes. Moreover, it increases the production of the hormone cortisol, which can affect the cat’s hair growth cycle. High cortisol levels can cause the cat’s hair to enter the shedding phase prematurely, resulting in excessive shedding.

Stress can also cause the cat to groom itself excessively, leading to skin irritation and hair loss. The cat may also develop hot spots or bald patches due to excessive licking or biting of the skin.

Chronic stress and prolonged anxiety can lead to a suppression of the cat’s immune system, making them more vulnerable to skin infections and other conditions that can lead to hair loss or excessive shedding.

The most common causes of stress and anxiety in Maine Coon cats are:

1. Change of environment 
2. Lack of Socialisation 
3. Illness or Pain
4. Separation Anxiety
5. Trauma or Abuse

Grooming and Hygiene

Grooming and hygiene practices can have a significant impact on the shedding of a Maine Coon. Their thick fur requires regular bathing, brushing, and grooming to remain healthy and prevent mats and tangles from forming. Poor hygiene, sporadic grooming, and brushing can lead to inappropriate shedding patterns and excessive hair loss.

Regular grooming can help reduce shedding, while poor grooming and hygiene practices can actually increase shedding. If a Maine Coon is not regularly groomed, the fur can become matted. When mats are present, the fur is more likely to break and fall out, leading to a higher volume of shedding and leaving bald patches.

With brushing and grooming, you help to remove loose fur and distribute the natural oils in the coat that keep it healthy and shiny. Additionally, keeping your Maine Coon clean and well-groomed can help to prevent skin irritations and other health issues that could lead to excessive shedding.

Diet and Nutrition

Feline nutrition experts state that if a cat’s diet lacks certain nutrients, it can lead to a dull, brittle coat and increased shedding. As a cat owner, it’s important to choose the right food for your Maine Coon to help promote healthy skin and coat. Look for high-quality cat foods that are formulated specifically for Maine Coons or cats with long fur. These foods should contain a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as vitamins and minerals that support skin and coat health.

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet primarily composed of animal-based proteins. While some plant-based proteins can be included in a cat’s diet, they do not provide all the essential amino acids that cats need and can be harder to digest. Dairy proteins, such as those found in milk, cheese, and yoghourt, can also be difficult for some cats to digest and may cause gastrointestinal upset.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat. Look for foods containing ingredients like salmon, and chicken fat, which are rich sources of these essential fatty acids.

It’s also important to pay attention to the ingredients in your cat’s food and avoid foods that contain a lot of emulators or by-products. Those ingredients do not provide the necessary nutrients for optimal health and may also harm and damage the cat’s liver. Additionally, ensure your cat gets enough water, as dehydration can contribute to dry, itchy skin and a dull coat.

Poor nutrition and nutrient imbalances are not evident immediately, so don’t wait for any signs of malnutrition. Always choose a high-quality, well-balanced diet to support your cat’s overall health and skin and coat health. 

In the following table, you can find food suggestions that contain the essential macronutrients responsible for keeping a cat’s fur healthy and glowing:

Nutrient	Food Sources	Function
Protein	Meat, poultry, fish	Essential for the growth and maintenance of healthy skin and fur, as it contains amino acids that are necessary for the production of keratin
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	Salmon, mackerel, sardine, tuna	Important for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat, as well as reducing inflammation
Omega-6 Fatty Acids	Poultry, chicken fat, fish	Important for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat
Vitamin A	Liver, salmon	An antioxidant that supports skin and coat health by protecting against damage from free radicals
Vitamin E	Trout, shrimp, prawns and chicken thigh	An antioxidant that supports skin and coat health by protecting against damage from free radicals
Zinc	Meat, poultry, fish, whole grains	Important for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat, as it is necessary for the production of keratin

How to Find Out if Cat Food is Ruining Your Maine Coon’s Coat

If you feel that your Maine Coon is shedding excessively for a prolonged period, it might be time to reconsider their diet and current food choices. If you suspect that your Maine Coon’s coat is being negatively affected by its diet, here are a few things to investigate and make some changes:

1. Evaluate the ingredients: Check the ingredients list of your cat’s food to see if it contains high-quality sources of animal protein, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients. If the food contains fillers, by-products, or low-quality protein sources, it may contribute to a dull or unhealthy coat. Common fillers in cat food are sweetcorn, rice, potatoes, peas, cellulose, and soya. These ingredients may be marketed to have supposed health benefits, but for true carnivores like cats, they offer little nutritional value.

2. Check the protein sources: the ideal feline diet should offer over 50% protein. The correct source is whole meat, not processed animal derivates. Moreover, some manufacturers use vegan and dairy proteins to meet the minimum nutrient values recommended by PFMA (Pet Food Manufacturers Association). These types of proteins are not the right micronutrients needed to keep the coat healthy.

3. Look for signs of allergy or sensitivity: Food allergies or sensitivities can cause various symptoms, including skin irritation and poor coat condition. If you notice your cat scratching excessively, experiencing hair loss, or developing red spots or rashes on their skin, it may indicate an allergy or sensitivity to their food.

4. Consider a diet change: If you suspect your cat’s food is negatively affecting their coat, consider switching to a high-quality, nutrient-dense cat food containing high-quality animal protein sources, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients. You may also want to consider feeding a raw or homemade diet formulated to meet your cat’s specific nutrient needs.

5. Consult with a veterinarian or feline nutritionist: If you’re unsure about your cat’s nutritional needs or how to improve their coat condition, consult a veterinarian or feline nutritionist. They can help you develop a diet plan that meets your cat’s specific needs and address any underlying health issues contributing to a poor coat condition.

How to Manage Shedding in Maine Coon Cats

In Maine Coons nurture plays a more important role than nature, especially when it comes to shedding. Therefore, by considering all the above-mentioned factors that affect hair loss and creating a proper care routine for your cat, you can easily manage the natural shedding process. Below we share several tips to help you control the fur situation in your house.

Grooming and Brushing Tips

Grooming helps detach dead hair that eventually becomes tangled and may start matting. Having a regular grooming routine for your Maine Coon is incredibly important. Not only that it helps keep the cat’s fur healthy and keeps the shedding under control, but it also builds a stronger bond between the cat and its owner.

Some cats love being brushed and groomed, while others not so much. Therefore, it is important to help your cat associate the grooming process with relaxation and bonding. Allow the cat to sniff the grooming tools and play with the brushes so it does not fear them. You can even feed your cat a treat after the grooming session to make them even more keen to the routine. 

If your Maine Coon becomes stressed at any point, make sure to stop to avoid causing distress. In case they feel uncomfortable or anxious about being brushed, try to be patient and slowly introduce the routine. 

Ideally, you should groom and brush your cat once a week. Maine Coons, like all cats, want to keep themselves clean, therefore, matted fur can put them in distress. Moreover, if they start throwing up hairballs, it is a sign that you need to up your grooming game. The cat’s self-grooming process is normal, however, make sure to assist and help make it more manageable and comfortable. 

Maine Coons coat can quickly become tangled if not maintained. To help avoid this, here are some tips for your grooming and brushing routine: 

1. Brush your Maine Coon cat’s coat at least once a week using a convenient brush or a metal comb with wide teeth. Start from the head and proceed down to the tail, being very gentle to avoid causing any discomfort.

2. Use a deshedding tool like a Furminator to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. These tools can be especially beneficial during shedding season, which occurs twice a year.

3. Trim your cat’s nails regularly to prevent them from becoming too long or sharp. Use cat-specific nail clippers and be careful not to cut the quick – the pink part of the nail that contains nerves and blood vessels.

4. Clean your cat’s ears with a damp cotton ball or soft cloth to remove dirt or wax buildup. Be gentle and avoid going too deep into the ear canal. 

5. Keep your cat’s fur clean and free of tangles and mats by checking their coat regularly for any knots or tangles. Use a detangling spray or a small amount of coconut oil to help remove tangles.

6. Regularly check your Maine Coon cat’s skin for any bumps, lumps, or signs of irritation. If you notice anything unusual, consult with a veterinarian.

By maintaining good grooming practices, you can help to keep your Maine Coon’s shedding under control and ensure their fur remains healthy and shiny.

Effective De-shedding Tools

Here’s an overview of the different types of brushes and combs that are recommended for grooming a Maine Coon:

1. Slicker brush: This type of brush has short, fine wires that are close together on a flat or slightly curved surface. It’s used to remove loose hair and detangle mats and knots in a cat’s coat.
2. Pin brush: A pin brush has longer, flexible pins that are good for brushing out the undercoat of a Maine Coon. It can also be used to remove dirt and debris from the coat.
3. Bristle brush: This type of brush has stiff, natural bristles that are good for removing loose hair and distributing oils throughout the coat. It’s also good for finishing and smoothing the coat.
4. Comb: A comb can be used to detangle mats and knots in a Maine Coon’s coat, especially in areas where a brush might not reach. A fine-toothed comb is best for cats with long hair.
5. Dematting tool: This type of tool is designed to remove mats and tangles from a cat’s coat. It has sharp blades or teeth that can cut through the mat without pulling on the hair.
6. Shedding tool: A shedding tool is designed to remove loose hair from a cat’s coat, especially during shedding season. It has a special blade or teeth that can remove hair without damaging the coat.

Bathing Tips

While most cats are absolutely terrified of water, Maine Coons are unique in their love and fascination with water. This makes it easier to introduce regular bathing. However, it is important to introduce bathing whilst the Maine Coon is still a kitten. 

Maine Coons typically do not need to be bathed very often, as they are good at grooming themselves. In fact, over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils and dry out their skin. It’s recommended to bathe a Maine Coon no more than once every 4 – 6 weeks, or as needed. Bathing helps to remove loose hair from the coat, which helps to reduce shedding. Regular grooming and bathing routine keeps the coat healthy, shiny, and silky.

In between baths, you can use cat-specific wet wipes to clean your Maine Coon’s coat. These wipes are gentle and effective at removing dirt and odours. Be sure to choose wipes that are safe for cats, and avoid using baby wipes or other products that may contain harmful and toxic chemicals.

How to Bathe a Maine Coon 

1. Preparation: Before bathing, brush your cat’s coat to remove any loose hair and tangles. You may also want to use a deshedding tool to remove any excess fur.

2. Water temperature: Fill the tub or sink with lukewarm water (make sure it’s not too hot or cold). Test the water temperature with your hand before placing your cat in the water.

3. Shampoo: Use a cat-specific shampoo that is gentle and moisturising. Avoid using human shampoo, which can be too harsh for a cat’s skin and toxic. Lather up the shampoo in your hands before applying it to your cat’s coat. Be sure to avoid the cat’s face, eyes, and ears. 

4. Use bathing gloves: You can also use bathing gloves that ease the process of working shampoo into your cat’s fur. They also offer a layer of protection against your fur baby’s sharp claws.  

5. Rinsing: Use a cup or sprayer to rinse off the shampoo thoroughly. Any remaining shampoo can irritate your cat’s skin.

6. Towel drying: Use a large, absorbent towel to gently dry your cat. Be sure to avoid rubbing or tugging on the fur, as this can cause mats or tangles.

Maintain a Pest-Free Coat

To maintain a pest-free coat in Maine Coons it’s essential to groom them frequently. Using a flea comb or fine-toothed comb effectively removes fleas, ticks, or other pests from their coat. Pay particular attention to areas like the neck, behind the ears, and the base of the tail, where pests tend to congregate.

Visiting a veterinarian and getting the best preventative product for your cat is mandatory. There are many preventative products available such as topical or oral medications and collars, that can help keep your Maine Coon’s coat free of pests. 

Pests like fleas and ticks can easily infest your home and lay eggs in your cat’s coat. Such pests can be brought home on humans’ shoes. Moreover, to prevent infestations, make sure to keep your home clean. Vacuum your home regularly and wash your cat’s bedding in hot water. Also, consider using a pest control product in your home, but always choose one that is safe and non-toxic for cats.

If your Maine Coon is an outdoor cat, check its coat for any pests and remove them immediately after outdoor activities. If you notice your Maine Coon scratching or biting at their coat excessively, it could signify a pest infestation. Make sure to check their fur for pests and talk to your veterinarian if you suspect an infestation. Moreover, schedule regular vet check-ups to ensure your Maine Coon is healthy and pest-free.

Diet and Hydration Tips

Diet and hydration definitely play a major role in the health and quality of the fur, thus the shedding volume. It’s of utmost importance to pay attention to the food you implement in your Maine Coon’s diet and ensure it’s high-quality and nutritious.

The chosen food should be rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for skin and coat health. The food should include skin-friendly protein sources like poultry (chicken, duck) and fish (tuna, salmon, mackerel, sardine). Super nutrients like vitamin E and taurine are also important for long-term well-being, coat health, and regulated shedding. 

In addition to a healthy diet, ensure your Maine Coon has access to clean, fresh water at all times, as dehydration can also lead to excessive shedding. Provide multiple water bowls around the house to encourage your cat to drink more water. Finally, adding supplements to their diet, recommended by a vet, can also help regulate shedding and improve the overall health of their skin and coat.  

Regular Health Check-Ups

Regular health check-ups from a veterinarian are highly recommended for Maine Coon cats, as they can help detect and prevent potential health issues that can lead to excessive shedding. During a routine check-up, the veterinarian will examine your cat’s overall health, including their skin and coat, and may recommend specific tests or treatments if any issues are detected.

By addressing these issues early, your veterinarian can help prevent further shedding and maintain your cat’s overall health. Additionally, routine check-ups can help ensure that your Maine Coon is up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations and parasite preventatives, which can also prevent shedding caused by illness or infestations. Overall, regular veterinary care is an essential part of keeping your Maine Coon healthy and happy and regulates shedding by addressing any underlying health issues.

Our Top Tips to Fight the Fur!

1. Get a good vacuum

The first top tip for any pet owner is a good vacuum cleaner. We have cats and kids and so decided to spend a little extra on a Shark vacuum. The Shark brand has an excellent range of vacuums with various pet hair features that ensure you easily pick up all the hair and fur in one pass. I can’t understate just how much our Shark vacuum has paid us back over the years. It’s been worth every penny.

2. Beds, Blankets, Toys, and Boxes

Tip two would be to create areas your cat will naturally want to sleep or sit in. You can use beds, toys they can climb in, towers, old boxes (which they love!), or rugs or throws. All these are easy to add, inexpensive, and easily washed. A sub-tip would be to move them around periodically. Cats tend to love a spot or blanket for a solid period of time and then get bored and move to a new spot or pet bed. I think lighting, temperature, noise, boredom, or interest levels all contribute to this. So if you buy a pet bed, throw, or toy and your Maine Coon isn’t interested at first, try to place it somewhere else around your home.

3. Pick the Right Colour Scheme or Flooring (not a serious suggestion!)

We didn’t intentionally set out to decorate our home using similar colouring to our gang of Maine Coons, but that’s what we’ve ended up doing. We have a lot of white, greys, and earth tones around our home. And a good mix of hardwood flooring with rugs in high-traffic areas and carpet in places like bedrooms for a warmer, cosier feel. A really happy by-product of these choices is that you don’t notice much fur on the surfaces. And if you do, it’s really easy to brush or vacuum up. So we don’t feel like we’re against the current trying to keep on top of our home.

You can also combine tips 2 and 3, and you’ll end up being able to play spot the Maine Coon… 

4. Buy Lint Rollers

Although you may implement all the above recommendations, you will still end up with cat hair on your clothes. To fight the inevitable, always keep lint rollers at hand. The adhesive quality of the lint roller makes it easier to pick up hair from fabric and other surfaces that are difficult to clean with other methods quickly. They are a very useful tool to ensure your clothes and sofas are clean from fur.

Common Misconceptions About Shedding in Maine Coon Cats

The most common misconceptions about Maine Coons include rumours that they don’t shed at all and that Maine Coons are hypoallergenic. Given the fact that Maine Coons have become a very popular breed choice for a pet, many assume they are special in those ways. However, none of these statements are true. Let’s debunk some of the common myths that surround this breed:

1. Maine Coons don’t shed: some sources state that Maine Coons don’t shed because of their thick undercoat. While Maine Coons do have a dense undercoat that helps to insulate them in cold weather, they also have a long topcoat that can produce a significant amount of loose hair.

2. Maine Coons only shed during the day: While it’s true that cats tend to be more active and shed more during the day, Maine Coons can shed at any time of day or night.

3. Maine Coons only shed during the day: While it’s true that cats tend to be more active and shed more during the day, Maine Coons can shed at any time of day or night.

4. Maine Coons need to be shaved to control shedding: Shaving your Maine Coon may seem like a quick fix, but it can actually cause more harm than good. The coat of a Maine Coon is designed to regulate body temperature and protect the skin, so shaving can leave them vulnerable to sunburn, insect bites, and other skin irritations.

Are Maine Coon Cats Hypoallergenic

Maine Coon cats are not hypoallergenic, despite some popular beliefs. One of the reasons why people often think that Maine Coons are hypoallergenic is because they produce less of the Fel d 1 allergen than other breeds of cats. However, they still produce this allergen to some extent, and people with cat allergies may still have reactions to Maine Coon cats.

In addition to the allergen issue, Maine Coon cats still shed like other cats. However, hair is not what triggers severe allergies, but the proteins found in saliva and skin secretions. It’s important to note that there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic cat. Every cat produces some level of allergens. While Maine Coon cats may produce less of the Fel d 1 allergen than some other breeds, they are not a good choice for people with severe cat allergies. If you’re considering getting a Maine Coon cat and you have allergies, it’s a good idea to spend time with the breed before committing to ensure that you don’t have a reaction. 

Conclusion

Similar to any cat breed and all pets in general, Maine Coons do shed but to a moderate amount. The shedding can easily be managed with regular grooming and maintenance. So, if you’re considering adding a Maine Coon cat to your household, be prepared for a furry friend that will definitely mark its favourite spots. Just remember that the little extra fur is a small price to pay for all the love and companionship these beautiful creatures bring into your life.