How big do Maine Coons get? What is their average weight and length? How long do they continue to grow?

The Maine Coon is known as the world's largest cat. With their massive bodies and fluffy coats, they are truly gorgeous—the quintessential "big cat."

The Norwegian Forest Cat is also known for being big, and the two breeds look very similar in both appearance and build. They share a calm and social temperament as well.

Just how big do Maine Coons get? Many owners are also curious about the right size for a cat collar. In this article, we will focus on their "size"—including their weight, body length, and growth process—to provide you with a detailed guide.

The Size of a Maine Coon

Maine Coons are among the largest of all domestic cat breeds. They are often called "Gentle Giants."

Large-boned and Sturdy Build

The Maine Coon is classified as a "Long and Substantial" breed, characterized by its large, heavy-set body. The Norwegian Forest Cat and the Bengal also belong to this type.

They have thick bones, a sturdy build, and are very muscular. With their body and tail being roughly equal in length, they carry themselves with an air of dignified presence.

Average Weight of a Maine Coon

The average weight of an adult Maine Coon is about 4–6kg for females and 6–8kg for males. For comparison, the average weight of a typical cat is about 3–5kg. Taking them to the vet can be quite a workout...

Body Length of a Maine Coon

The body length of a Maine Coon (measured from chest to rump) is about 50–80cm. Their total length (from nose to tip of the tail) often exceeds 100cm. In contrast, the body length of an American Shorthair, an average-sized cat, is about 30–40cm.
This impressive length is a hallmark feature of the Maine Coon.

According to Guinness World Records, the record for the "longest cat" was held by Stewie, who measured 123cm in total length. Sadly, he has since passed away, but it is said that other Maine Coons are currently growing in hopes of breaking that record.

Maine Coon Collar Size

Maine Coons are a breed that survived the harsh environment of North America. They have thick, fluffy coats to protect them from the cold. Their ruff—the long hair around their neck—is particularly thick and gorgeous.

When choosing a collar for a long-haired cat like a Maine Coon, size selection is critical. First, push the fur aside to measure the thinnest part of the neck.A collar that fits the circumference of their neck plus 5cm (enough to fit 2–3 fingers of a human hand) is ideal.

Because long-haired cats often get their fur tangled in collars, leading to matting, please choose a collar made of soft materials like cotton or linen. Daily brushing is also essential.

If the collar seems likely to be hidden by their fluff, you might consider trimming the hair around their neck slightly, or attaching an ID tag or bell.

Maine Coon Growth Process

While Maine Coons are famous for being "giant cats," are the kittens also large? We have summarized the growth process of the Maine Coon.

It takes 3–5 years to become an adult

Like the Norwegian Forest Cat, the Maine Coon is a slow-maturing breed. While typical cats reach adulthood in about a year, it is said that Maine Coons take 3–5 years to fully mature.

You won't know just how big they will eventually get until they reach adulthood. It’s part of the fun of watching them grow.

Weight Progression of a Maine Coon

Until about 3 months of age, Maine Coons are roughly the same size as other kittens. However, because their paws are already large, you might be able to predict that they will grow into a "giant cat."

Around 4 months, their weight will reach 2.5–3kg, and by 5 months, they grow to 3–3.5kg, surpassing the size of many typical adult cats. Yes, Maine Coons are large even from kittenhood.

By around 6 months of age, they grow to 3.5–4.5kg, and female Maine Coons begin to slow down their growth rate. Males are still in their growth phase and will continue to gain weight.

Around 9 months of age, their chest fur and tail ruff become more prominent, and after 1 year, their growth slows down. Their muscles and bones continue to develop, so while they don't change drastically in appearance, they will continue to gain weight little by little.

Differences between Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats

Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats look quite similar.

There are many theories regarding the roots of the Maine Coon, but a prominent one is that they are descendants of Norwegian Forest Cats that traveled to America and were bred independently.

They have many things in common, such as body size, weight, and temperament, but are there ways to tell them apart?

The "Gentle Curve" is the key

If you look at Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats from the side, you can see a difference in their facial features.

The Maine Coon’s face has a slight curve at the bridge of the nose and a somewhat rounded profile. This curve is called the "Gentle Curve," and it is a key point in distinguishing them from the Norwegian Forest Cat.

The Norwegian Forest Cat is characterized by a straight profile from the forehead to the nose tip, giving them a sharper, cleaner look.

If you ever have the chance to visit a cat café that has both, definitely try comparing their "faces"!

Summary

The average weight of an adult Maine Coon is about 4–6kg for females and 6–8kg for males.What truly makes them stand out is their body length, with many exceeding 100cm. Some large individuals can even grow beyond 120cm.

Maine Coons are large even as kittens, and by 6 months, they already surpass the average weight of most typical adult cats. They grow slowly over 3–5 years, gradually developing robust muscles and a strong skeletal structure.

In addition to providing food tailored to their growth, it is important to ensure that these playful cats have plenty of space for exercise. Because of their large size, be sure to provide appropriately sized litter boxes, beds, and cages.

When using a cat collar, ensure you brush them regularly to prevent fur from matting. We recommend choosing a collar made of soft materials like cotton or linen.

Enjoy the process of watching your cat grow, and choose a collar that suits the gorgeous Maine Coon!