Red Flags to Watch When Choosing a Maine Coon Breeder

Choosing a Maine Coon breeder is not just about finding a beautiful kitten. It’s about protecting your future family member, your investment, and the integrity of the breed.

Most breeders genuinely care. But not all breeding programs operate with the same level of responsibility. Knowing what to watch for can save you heartache, unexpected medical expenses, and disappointment down the road.

Here are important red flags to keep in mind.

1. No Health Testing Documentation

If a breeder cannot provide proof of:

• HCM echocardiograms

• Hip evaluations

• Genetic testing panels

  
  

That is a serious concern.

Verbal reassurance is not the same as documentation. Ethical breeders expect informed buyers to ask for proof. Transparency should never feel uncomfortable or defensive.

2. Reluctance to Answer Questions

A responsible breeder welcomes thoughtful questions.

Be cautious if you notice:

• Vague or rushed answers

• Avoidance when discussing health history

• Irritation when asking about testing or lineage

• Pressure to “just trust” without details

Trust is built through clarity, not avoidance.

3. No Contract or Health Guarantee

Every reputable breeder provides a written contract.

That contract should clearly outline:

• Health guarantees

• Spay/neuter terms for pet homes

• Return policies

• Responsibilities of both breeder and buyer

If there is no contract, or it feels incomplete, that is a red flag.

4. Multiple Litters Constantly Available

Maine Coons are a large, slow-maturing breed. Responsible programs limit breeding frequency to protect the health of queens.

Be cautious if:

• There are always many litters available

• Kittens are constantly advertised

• There is little information about the parent cats

Quality breeding focuses on health and preservation, not volume.

5. No Visible Adult Cats

You should be able to see information about:

• The breeding cats

• Their health testing

• Their temperament

• Their living environment

If you cannot find any details about the adults behind the kittens, that’s a concern. The parents matter just as much as the kittens.

6. Prices That Seem “Too Good”

Ethical breeding is expensive.

Health testing, veterinary care, quality nutrition, proper socialization, and responsible cattery management all carry real costs. Extremely low pricing can indicate corners being cut somewhere — and it is rarely worth the long-term risk.

Choose Confidence Over Convenience

A Maine Coon will be part of your life for many years. Taking the time to research and ask questions is not overthinking — it’s wisdom. Responsible breeders are proud of their program. They will provide documentation, answer questions clearly, and stand behind their kittens. When choosing a breeder, look for integrity, not urgency.

Your future companion deserves nothing less.