Maine Coon Cat Health Problems

Maine coons are the friendly, gentle giants of the cat family. According to PetMedsOnline, the Maine coon can grow to sizes anywhere from eight to 22 lbs. and they come in a range of colors. They have a long, soft, thick fur coat, and they typically have tufts of fur that come off the tips of their ears. This sweet breed, like any other cat, is subject to feline diseases and conditions. However, there are several conditions that seem to be common in Maine coons specifically, according to the Maine Coon Breeders &Fanciers Association website: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), polycystic kidney disease (PKD), hip dysplasia (HD), and chronic gingivitis.

  1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

    • According to Maine Coon Cat Health, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disease that occurs late in a cat's life. It is the most common feline heart disease, and approximately one-third of all Maine coons test positive for it. Symptoms include a heart murmur and a thickening of the left ventricular free wall and interventricular septum. Maine coons should be tested yearly for HCM.

    Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

    • Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a disease carried through an autosomal recessive gene, which causes neurons in the spinal cord to die out, according to Maine Coon Cat Health. As a result, the normally athletic and adventurous Maine coon experiences muscle weakness and an abnormal gait. Responsible breeders can and will test for a genetic predisposition and remove any Maine coon that tests positive from their breeding program.

    Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

    • According to Maine Coon Cat Health, polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is caused by an autosomal dominant gene that causes cysts to form on the kidneys, which can eventually lead to renal disease. Symptoms of PKD include weight loss, depression, vomiting, increased thirst and increased urination. According to PawPeds, there is no treatment for PKD, nor is there one to prevent it. A low protein and low phosphorus diet can help cats with PKD, and cardialgia inhibitors, calcium supplements and antibiotics can help in more advanced cases.

    Hip Dysplasia (HD)

    • Hip dysplasia (HD) occurs when one or both hip joints become unstable, causing weight to be carried in an abnormal manner. Also, as the joint breaks down, the femoral head and acetabulum, which join together to form the hip joint, will grind together, causing osteoarthritis.

    Chronic Gingivitis

    • According to Maine Coon Cat Health, Maine coons are genetically predisposed to chronic gingivitis, which is a swelling of the gums that causes a loss of appetite and discomfort for your cat. It can be treated with antibiotics and regular teeth cleanings, according to the Drs. Foster and Smith Cat Education website.