How to Tell if a Kitten Is a Purebred Maine Coon
By Royal Maine Coon Kittens · Published
Looks alone cannot prove a kitten is a purebred Maine Coon. Registration papers, the parents, and health testing can. Here is what to check before you buy.
The short answer
The only reliable proof that a kitten is a purebred Maine Coon is paperwork: registration of the kitten or its litter with a cat registry such as TICA or CFA, registered parents, and a pedigree. Physical traits help, but many long-haired domestic cats look similar.
Maine Coon traits to look for
- Large, rectangular, muscular body and big boned legs
- Tall ears with lynx-like tufts on the tips and fur inside the ears
- A square muzzle and high cheekbones
- A shaggy, water-resistant coat that is shorter on the shoulders and longer on the belly and britches, often with a ruff
- A long, bushy tail and tufted, snowshoe-like paws
Documents to ask the breeder for
- Registration papers for the parents and the litter
- DNA health results for both parents, including HCM, SMA and PKDef
- The kitten's veterinary records and microchip number
- A written sales contract and health guarantee
Red flags
- No papers, or papers promised "later"
- You cannot see the mother or the kitten in person or on video
- The price is far below the market; see our Maine Coon price guide
- Pressure to pay immediately by gift card or wire transfer
We welcome visits by appointment at 219 S Grand Ave, Evansville, IN, and video calls for buyers further away. See the kittens available now.