Some Tips for Purchasing a Maine Coon

THE PURCHASING PROCESS

Never rush into the purchase of a companion that is to be given the freedom of your home and will become an integral part of your life. A purebreed cat may live 20 years or more. This is a Long time. it is very prudent to take all those steps that will minimize the chances of your ever regretting the choice you make. Once you decided on the sex, age, reason for purchase(pet, show or breeding) and desired color pattern, proceed cautiously, heeding all the advice given here. By following a planned process of selection, you will also gain much useful information.

OWNER RESPONSIBILITY
The initial cost of Maine Coon Cat represents only a fraction of its lifetime's cost. The first question is, "Can you afford one?". The kitten needs vaccinations to protect it againts various diseases. Boosters are then required every year. Cat food is more costly than that for dogs. There is also the cost of cat litter every week. Periodic vet checks and treatment for illness or accident must be allowed for. When holiday are taken, you may need to board the pet at a petshop or place for boarding.
From outset there will be additional costs apart from that of kitten. It will need basket, carrying box, feeding and grooming utensils, scratching post and some toys. If you have any doubt at all about being able to suplly all these needs, it is best not to obtain a cat.
It is most unfortunate that many people rush into the purchase of cats on impulse. They then find they cannot cope when problems and extra cost,ensue. Some lost interest in the pet once it matures past its kitten stage.
The evidence of these realities is easily seen in the growing number of cats abandoned or taken to animal shelters every year. Invariable their owners will make feeble excuses for why the cat cannot be kept. But the bottom of the line is they did not stop to consider at the outset what responsible ownership entailed.

DOCUMENTATION

When you Take delivery of your kitten, certain paperwork should come with it
-Three to Five generation of Pedigree.
-Breeder-signed registration application form or change of owner registration form. This assumes the breeder has registered stock. If they have not, the kitten cannot be registered at a later date. It is worth less than the kitten with registration paperwork BUT you are not recommended to purchase a kitten from UNREGISTERED parents.
-Certificates of health, Vaccination and neutering, if this has been effected. Ideally, it is desirable that the kitten's parents have been tested negative for major deases.Additionally, the breeder should know the blood group of your kitten. This may be of importance at a later day.
-Details of worming or other treatments attended.
-Diet sheet, feeding timetable and brand names of food items used. This diet should be maintain for at least ten days while the kitten adjusts to the trauma of moving home
-signed receipt for money paid
-signed copy of any guarantees. Not all breeders give a guarantee on the reasonable grounds that once the kitten leaves their care, its onward well-being is no longer under their control.

Example of CFA cert.

EXAMPLE of health certification

KITTEN OR ADULT?

Most potential owners normally want a kitten because it is so cute, cuddly and playful. A kitten is easily trained and has not yet developed bad habits, which is the older Maine Coon may have done. This said, if you plant to breed or exhibit, there are advantages in obtaning a young adult. Other potential owners, such as elderly, may benefit by avoiding the demanding need of a young kitten. In both of these instances, a good age is when the youngster is 9-15 months old. Even a fully mature Maine Coon may prove an excellent choice for some owners.
Kitten should not be obtained under 12 weeks old, though 14-16 weeks is better. No reputable breeder will sell them younger than this.

A HEALTHY KITTEN

Closely inspect any kitten before making a final decision. Keep in mind the following points
-EYES AND NOSE: Clean and clear with no signs of discharge.
-EARS: Fresh smelling and erect.
-COAT: Healthy, not dull or dry.
-ANAL REGION: Clean with no staining of fur.
-FEET: four toes on each foot, Plus a dewclaw on the inside of each front legs.
-TEETH: correct bite
There should be no sign of parasites or bald area of fur. A potbelly may indicate worms.

CHOOSING A KITTEN

This is very important part.
If you choose the breeder wisely, and especially if a friend recommend him, this will remove potential problem related to your making a poor choice. However, a litle knowledge on what to look for will not go amiss. Observe the kitten from a distance to ensure none is unduly lethargic, which is never a good sign. If any display signs of illness, this should bring to an end any further thought of purchase from that source. A reputable breeder would not allow an ill kitten remain within its litter.
It is always advisable to select a kitten that shows particular interest in you. Maine Coon are very discerning. If both of you are drawn to each other, this will greatly enhance the bonding essential for a strong relationship.
Make sure the kitten that you choose is a healthy kitten.