Maine Coon cats are wonderful and very he althy pets. However, sometimes these cats are adopted from mediocre breeders or shelters that cannot provide them with the care they require.
For this reason it is very important that when we decide to adopt one of these beautiful and elegant pets, we have all the documentation and guarantees. Likewise, if it is not possible, we must inform ourselves about the ailments or possible illnesses that he may suffer.
Although this cat is in excellent he alth and is supposed to be cared for with care and love, if you continue reading our site you will learn about possible maine diseases coon.
Heart
Feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a serious disease that is not exclusive to Maine Coon cats. But within the world of this precious breed, it is known that there are some breeding lines prone to suffering from this disease over time.
This heart disease is characterized by the thickening of the walls of the left ventricle of the feline heart. This causes failure and deterioration of the heart muscle.
Sternum deformity
A deformity of the sternum called Pectus excavatus, is characterized by a depression of all or part of the sternum.
This anomaly compresses the lungs and the heart of the Maine Coon, hindering the normal functioning of these vital organs. Cats suffering from this malformation have an abnormal hump on the back.
Hip dysplasias
This serious deformity, hip dysplasia, is characterized as a serious malformation that causes a depression of the loin in the hindquarters of the cat. This induces the hind legs to position themselves in X.
This malformation is very painful and disabling for the poor feline, causing the cat excessive fatigue. This failure is due to breeding and consanguinity defects. It is the inexperienced breeders who are to blame for allowing the breeding of these defective lines.
However, a cat can also suffer from hip dysplasia if it is not exercised or is exercised excessively.
Gen rex
A faulty gene is responsible for the strange appearance of Maine Coon cats carrying the Rex gene The rex gene is an extraordinarily rare anomaly. Cats affected by this rare gene have their fully curly coat
It is possible that a litter of normal maine coons will produce a kitten with this anomaly. This is a sign of poor genetic quality in one of the parents.
Obesity
Maine Coon cats are very large. Adult males range between 7 and 11 Kg. Females are much smaller, weighing between 4, 5 and 7 kg.
However, the maine coon's lazy idiosyncrasy and his insatiable appetite are a terrible combination if his intake of food isn't watched. food. With more reason if the cat is sterilized. All this makes the Maine Coon prone to obesity.
The veterinarian must set the cat's dietary pattern. If this does not happen, it is possible that the cat gains weight up to 20 kg, as has already happened among some cats. Discover passive exercise for cats to avoid being overweight.