How to Groom a Maine Coon: Tips for Keeping Your Cat Healthy and Happy
Maine Coons are known for their beautiful coats, big personalities, and gentle nature. While they don’t require daily grooming, regular care helps keep their fur in top shape and strengthens the bond between you and your cat.
If you’re new to grooming or just want to make sure you’re doing it right, here’s a simple guide to help.
1. Brush Regularly (But Not Every Day)
Maine Coons have long, soft fur that can mat if left unmanaged — especially around their neck, belly, and hind legs. Brushing two to three times a week is usually enough to prevent tangles.
Use a metal comb or a slicker brush to gently work through their coat, starting at the top and moving in the direction of hair growth. Be especially gentle around sensitive spots like the belly.
2. Keep an Eye on Nails and Paws
Trim your cat’s nails every couple of weeks. Maine Coons can grow thick claws, so regular trimming helps avoid scratches and keeps your furniture safe.
Some cats tolerate nail trims better after a brushing session or when they’re relaxed — take it slow and offer treats to build a positive routine.
3. Clean Ears and Eyes as Needed
Check your Maine Coon’s ears for dirt or wax buildup and gently wipe them with a damp cotton pad if needed. Don’t use cotton swabs or go too deep.
Tear stains are rare but can happen with lighter-colored cats — if you notice buildup near the eyes, use a soft cloth or cat-safe eye wipe to gently clean the area.
4. Bathing: Only When Necessary
Most Maine Coons don’t need regular baths, especially if they’re brushed often. However, if your cat gets into something messy or starts to feel greasy, an occasional bath with a gentle cat shampoo is okay.
Make sure to rinse thoroughly and dry your cat completely — their thick coat holds water!
If allergies are a concern in your household, you might also want to read our post: Are Maine Coons Hypoallergenic?
5. Keep Grooming Positive
The most important part of grooming is making it a positive experience. Start slowly, offer praise and treats, and stop if your cat becomes stressed. Over time, many Maine Coons come to enjoy grooming — some even see it as bonding time.
Grooming isn’t just about appearance — it helps keep your Maine Coon comfortable, reduces shedding, and gives you a chance to check for any changes in their skin or coat.
If you have questions about grooming tools or routines, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to help!
Curious about what it’s like to bring home one of our kittens? Learn more about our adoption process here.