In the world of Maine Coon breeding, the distinction between European and American Maine coons has always been a debate. As a breeder, selecting a “look” for your program is essential, as it shapes the future of your chosen pedigree. Russian Blue Coons, known for their expertise in European Maine Coon lines, exemplifies this decision-making process.

While all Maine Coons share traits like size, solid bone structure, thick coats, and long tails, each cattery develops a unique aesthetic. European Maine Coons, such as those from Russian Blue Coons, feature a more “wild” appearance, with taller ears, pronounced lynx tips, high cheekbones, and square muzzles. In contrast, American Maine coon lines present a softer look.

Recognizing a European Maine Coon takes an eye for detail. As you observe these magnificent cats, differences emerge—particularly the untamed look of the European Maine coon line, as carefully preserved at Russian Blue Coons.

For those seeking “Maine Coon kittens for sale,” knowing these distinctions ensures you find the right fit.

Below you’ll see a few examples of European Maine Coons.

Russian Blue Coons specializes and focuses on 100% European Maine Coons

At Russian Blue Coons, every Maine Coon in our breeding program carries authentic European bloodlines, known for their majestic, wild look that distinguishes European Maine Coons. Many of our parent cats are imported from Europe, ensuring that each kitten reflects this unique lineage. For those interested in this striking appearance, you can join our kitten announcement list to be notified as soon as European Maine Coon kittens are available.

Russian Blue Coons offers Maine Coon kittens for sale across the United States, including Texas, Florida, and North Carolina, with White-Glove Delivery available to ensure safe arrival at your doorstep.

Choosing a Maine Coon from European lines is a decision many make for the breed’s distinct characteristics. For us, importing from trusted catteries in Europe, particularly Russia, has been essential to maintaining the authenticity of the European line. This process, though initially daunting, has proven rewarding, and each step is taken with the utmost care. For those interested in this journey, I’ve shared insights on selecting breeders and understanding the import process to help guide potential owners in making informed choices.

When it comes to importing European Maine Coon kittens, Russian Blue Coons emphasizes the importance of choosing reputable breeders to avoid potential risks. Over the years, many have encountered issues such as misleading transactions, unhealthy kittens, or breeders not delivering as promised. Given these challenges, it’s essential to proceed with caution when considering an import.

Without reliable recommendations, importing a kitten can be risky. We have now established trusted connections with ethical breeders in Europe and offers these recommendations to serious buyers looking to import European bloodlines. For those interested in learning more about the process and finding reliable breeders, this information is available through the “Complete Guide to Breeding Pedigree Cats” course, where we cover everything you need to know about importing with confidence.

Joining our program ensures you access important resources and the knowledge to make informed decisions about European Maine Coons, whether for breeding or as cherished companions.

Essential Tips for Vetting Breeders When Searching for European Maine Coon Kittens for Sale

When searching for European Maine Coon kittens for sale, ensuring the breeder’s credibility and the kitten’s health is key. Russian Blue Coons recommends these critical steps:

1. Social Media Research: Explore breeders’ profiles on platforms like Facebook. Join Maine Coon groups, where you can often find insights about breeders and view photos of their kittens.

2. Read Reviews in Groups: Use the search feature in Facebook groups to find breeder reviews. Positive feedback is promising; if you see negative comments, it may be best to look elsewhere.

3. Check the Breeder’s Website: Review their site for current information on health and genetic tests, as well as photos of parents and kittens.

4. Ask for USA Referrals: Request contact information for previous U.S. buyers to learn about their experiences with the breeder.

5. Gauge Response Times: Define your expectations for response time and consider time zone differences with overseas breeders.

6. Verify Cattery Registration: Check the breeder’s registration with associations like CFA, TICA, WCF, or ACFA.

7. Review the Breeder’s Contract: Request to see the contract to understand their terms regarding kitten care, health, and responsibilities.

8. Request Health and Genetic Certifications: Verify that both parents have tested negative for HCM, PK, PK Def, SMA, and FIV. A full genetic profile for the kitten can provide even more assurance.

9. Confirm Pedigree: Ask for the pedigree of the kitten’s parents to ensure lineage and quality.

Following these steps can provide peace of mind as you find a reputable breeder. Russian Blue Coons is committed to supporting future owners in selecting healthy, genuine European Maine Coon kittens.

Guidelines for Importing European Maine Coon Kittens for Sale from Russian Blue Coons

When importing European Maine Coon kittens, understanding the logistics and steps involved can ease the process and help ensure a safe, successful experience. Here’s a guide from Russian Blue Coons on what to expect with shipping, payments, and customs.

1. Shipping Costs and Process

Shipping a kitten from Europe requires additional planning and cost. For instance, importing a kitten from Moscow to Miami may cost around $800, though this varies by courier and location. Partnering with another breeder to ship two kittens can help lower expenses, as shipping multiple kittens often provides better rates. European breeders typically work with trusted couriers who will arrange safe transportation for your kitten.

2. Secure Payment Options

Making an international payment can be nerve-wracking. To protect yourself, verify the breeder’s reputation thoroughly before any transfer. Most breeders request a deposit ($250–$500) to reserve your kitten, with the balance due before shipping. PayPal’s Friends and Family option is often preferred, though note it may not provide dispute options. Always feel confident in the breeder before finalizing the transaction, as this is crucial for peace of mind.

3. Customs Process

Once your kitten arrives in the United States, you’ll go through customs. Procedures vary by location, but generally, you’ll visit the cargo area to retrieve paperwork attached to the kitten’s carrier. This paperwork is presented to U.S. Customs, where officials review details and confirm the import. After a final fee (typically around $65), you can bring your kitten home.

Are Male Maine Coons Bigger than Females?

While it may be true that a male will be considerably larger than a female, it is possible that a female will grow to be just as big. This will depend on the genetics and the lines being used for breeding.

Usually, there’s a significant between the size of male and female Maine Coons. In the photo below you’ll see a female Maine Coon at 12 pounds, and a male at 19 pounds.

When are Maine Coons Full Grown?

Maine Coons are known for their impressive size and slow growth rate, reaching full maturity between three to five years of age. As the largest domestic cat breed, their stature is striking, yet photos can sometimes exaggerate their size. To truly appreciate their growth, adopting a Maine Coon kitten and watching it develop over time is ideal.

For example, “Bisson” from Russian Blue Coons reached 21 pounds by age one and has grown to a solid 28 pounds by seven and a half years. While he may be robust, it’s not uncommon for Maine Coons to have a naturally large build.

Russian Blue Coons offers a selection of full-grown Maine Coons, showcasing the breed’s true size and majestic appearance.

UPDATE: My Black Smoke Maine coon has officially surpassed Big Zeus [Pictured above] and is now my biggest boy! Check him out.

Male Maine Coons typically weigh between 20 to 25 pounds (around 9 to 11 kg), while females are generally lighter, averaging 10 to 15 pounds (about 4.5 to 7 kg). Their rectangular build, large paws, and thick coats add to their imposing look.

Maine Coon cat Size?

Adult Maine Coons usually stand between 10 to 16 inches tall (25 to 41 cm) and can reach up to 40 inches (100 cm) in length, with tails alone measuring around 14 inches (36 cm).

Record-Breaking Maine Coon

The longest Maine Coon on record, Barivel, measures a remarkable 47.2 inches from nose to tail tip, highlighting the breed’s notable stature.

With their large build, bushy tails, and gentle, playful nature, Maine Coons make excellent family pets. Russian Blue Coons offers a variety of coon cats for sale, perfect for those seeking a friendly giant to join their home.

Choosing a Maine Coon Breeder: Quality Over Size

When searching for a Maine Coon cat for sale, it’s essential to prioritize quality and health over size. While some breeders emphasize large sizes, oversized Maine Coons can face health challenges, such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, and arthritis.

Russian Blue Coons Breeds for Health, Not Giant Size

At Russian Blue Coons, we focus on breeding healthy Maine Coons with strong genetics. Our aim is to raise kittens that grow into balanced, healthy adults rather than focusing on size alone. A Maine Coon’s lifespan and overall health far outweigh the novelty of “giant” cats.

Don’t Get Caught Up in the Size Hype

Be cautious of Maine coon breeders who market “giant” Maine Coons as a primary selling point. Maine Coons are naturally large compared to other cats, so even an average-sized Maine Coon will still have a commanding presence.

Photography Tricks Can Distort Size Perception

The Internet is full of photos that make Maine Coons appear enormous, often due to simple camera tricks. By positioning an object closer to the camera, it appears larger than it truly is. This technique, often used with Maine Coon cats, can make them seem bigger than life, adding to their mystique.

Before making a decision, consider Russian Blue Coons for your Maine Coon kitten. We focus on the well-being of each cat, ensuring you bring home a robust and healthy companion.

What you’re about to see might shock you! While it’s true that Maine Coons are large cats, the photographs of them can be manipulated in a way to make them seem enormous!

Using the “closer to the lens” technique, I took some photographs of 3 of my own cats. In the first photo, I am holding the cat close to my body. In the second photo, I’m holding the cat with my arms extended outward, thus moving the cat closer to the camera lens. You can clearly see how the size perspective of the cat changes.

Why We Love Our Maine Coons

Owning a Maine Coon cat is truly rewarding. These cats aren’t just known for their impressive size but also for their affectionate and gentle nature, making them the ideal “gentle giants” of the feline world. At Russian Blue Coons, we know that while size is an attraction, there’s much more to appreciate.

What Sets Maine Coons Apart?

The Maine Coon breed embodies a unique mix of attributes that set them apart from other cats. Beyond their size, they offer exceptional companionship, warmth, and charm, along with a friendly demeanor that makes them perfect family pets.

Health and Temperament First

Our priority at Russian Blue Coons is the health, temperament, and adherence to breed standards of our Maine Coon cats. By focusing on these elements, we ensure each kitten we raise is a well-rounded, robust, and healthy companion. We encourage prospective owners to choose breeders who also prioritize these traits over size alone.

For those seeking a coon cat for sale, Russian Blue Coons provides Maine Coon kittens available for delivery throughout the United States and the world, giving families everywhere the chance to welcome one of these remarkable cats into their homes.