Maine Coon Cat Myths Debunked: The Real Truth About These Gentle Giants

Maine Coons are one of the most beloved and talked-about cat breeds in the world. Known for their impressive size, bushy tails, and affectionate personalities, they’re often surrounded by an air of mystery and myth. But how much of what we hear is actually true?

In this post, we’ll dive into real myths commonly heard in cat communities, online forums, and casual conversations—and give you the truth behind each one.

🛁 Myth #1: All Maine Coons Love Water

The Truth: It’s a popular belief that all Maine Coons adore water—some people even say they’ll jump in the shower with you or swim in bathtubs. While it’s true that Maine Coons tend to be more curious about water than other cat breeds (they may dip their paws into water bowls or try to play with dripping faucets), not every Maine Coon loves to get wet.

Some enjoy water play, others hate it just like any other cat. Their comfort with water really depends on individual temperament and early experiences. If your Maine Coon was introduced to water gently as a kitten, they may enjoy it more than one who wasn’t.

📏 Myth #2: All Maine Coons Are Huge

The Truth: Maine Coons are indeed one of the largest domestic cat breeds, but that doesn’t mean every single one is a giant. Adult males typically weigh between 13–20 pounds, while females tend to range from 8–14 pounds. Some exceptional individuals may exceed 25 pounds, but that’s not the norm.

Also, Maine Coons grow slowly—they often don’t reach their full size until they’re 3 to 5 years old. So while your young Maine Coon might seem small at first, don’t judge too quickly!

Their long, thick coats also make them look bigger than they actually are, adding to the illusion of "giant cat."

🐶 Myth #3: Maine Coons Act Just Like Dogs

The Truth: Maine Coons are often called the “dogs of the cat world” because of their friendly, sociable personalities. Many do follow their humans around, greet them at the door, and even play fetch. But not all Maine Coons behave this way.

They are still cats, and like all cats, each one has a unique personality. Some Maine Coons are outgoing and dog-like, while others are shy or independent. It’s important not to assume that every Maine Coon will act like a golden retriever in a cat’s body!

🐾 Myth #4: Maine Coons Don’t Need Grooming Because They Don’t Mat

The Truth: This is a dangerous misconception. While it’s true that Maine Coons have a silkier and less tangle-prone coat than some long-haired breeds, they are not maintenance-free. Their fur can and does mat, especially around the neck, underarms, and hindquarters.

Regular grooming (at least once or twice a week) helps prevent painful knots and keeps their coat healthy and shiny. Grooming also helps reduce shedding and hairballs—and it’s a great bonding time with your cat!

Some Maine Coons even enjoy brushing sessions, especially if introduced early in life.

😼 Myth #5: Maine Coons Are Always Friendly and Easygoing

The Truth: While Maine Coons have a reputation for being gentle and affectionate, not all of them are super social. Personality can vary widely depending on genetics, socialization, and environment.

Some Maine Coons love cuddles and attention, while others prefer to keep their distance. Some are lap cats, others are “next to you” cats. It's a myth to assume all Maine Coons will be outgoing, friendly, and tolerant of everyone.

That said, they do tend to be more laid-back and adaptable than many breeds—but like all cats, they need time to build trust.

💸 Myth #6: If It’s Big and Fluffy, It Must Be a Maine Coon

The Truth: This is one of the most common myths, especially in online cat communities. Just because a cat is large and fluffy doesn’t mean it’s a Maine Coon. Many domestic longhairs share similar features—like long fur, ear tufts, or bushy tails—without being purebred Maine Coons.

The only way to truly know if a cat is a Maine Coon is through pedigree papers from a reputable breeder or genetic testing. Visual traits alone aren’t enough.

Keep in mind that Maine Coons have specific breed standards, including head shape, body structure, eye set, and tail length, that go beyond just looking “big and fluffy.”

Final Thoughts

Maine Coons are magnificent animals, but no cat breed is without myths. From their supposed love of water to their reputation as gentle giants, these cats are surrounded by plenty of misunderstandings.

Understanding the truth behind the myths helps you become a better cat parent—or make a more informed choice if you're considering adding a Maine Coon to your family.