Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Over the years, we've received many of the same questions from prospective kitten families, so we've gathered some of the most common ones here in one convenient place. Whether you're curious about our adoption process, health testing, kitten availability, or what it's like to live with a Maine Coon, we hope you'll find the answers you're looking for below.

If not, feel free to contact us. We love talking about Maine Coons almost as much as we love raising them!

Frequently Asked Questions

How It All Began:

I’d loved Maine Coons for years but had no idea how to begin breeding until, in a very roundabout way, I met my mentor Greg — proof that sometimes the right people cross your path when you’re meant to start something special.  With guidance, curiosity, lots of time and a whole lot of heart, Treska Maine Coons was born. What began as admiration for their intelligence, grace, and gentle temperament has grown into a passion for preserving and sharing this extraordinary breed with families who will love them as deeply as I do.

Why Does a Maine Coon Kitten Cost What It Does?

This is one of the most common questions I receive, and it's a fair one. Our kittens start at $2,800, and here's why.

Long before a kitten is born, I've already invested significant time, effort, and resources into producing healthy, well-socialized Maine Coons. Some of those investments include:

  • Health testing and genetic screening of breeding cats

  • Routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and wellness exams

  • CFA and TICA registration fees

  • Premium nutrition and quality food

  • High-quality litter, toys, scratching posts, bedding, and enrichment

  • Grooming supplies and ongoing coat care

  • Showing our breeding cats in CFA and TICA competitions—including entry fees, travel, hotels, fuel, and other expenses—so independent judges can confirm they meet the Maine Coon breed standard.

  • A clean, safe, enriched home environment where kittens are raised as part of the family—not in a separate building or kennel

  • Countless hours of daily handling, socialization, monitoring, cleaning, and individualized care

My greatest investment; however, is time. Caring for my adult cats and kittens isn't a part-time hobby—it often requires several hours each day. Every kitten is handled daily, introduced to normal household sights and sounds, and given the very best start before joining their forever family.

When you bring home a Treska Maine Coon kitten, you're not simply purchasing a cat. You're welcoming a carefully planned, health-tested family member who has been raised with intention, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

By the time your kitten comes home, thousands of dollars—and countless hours—have already been invested in their health, temperament, and well-being. When you consider everything that's included, many families are surprised to discover they're receiving exceptional value—not just a beautiful kitten, but a lifelong companion backed by responsible breeding and ongoing breeder support.

Why Are There So Many Maine Coon Scams?

Unfortunately, Maine Coons are one of the most sought-after cat breeds in the world, making them a favorite target for scammers. Their popularity, combined with the high demand and relatively high purchase price, creates the perfect opportunity for fraudulent websites and fake breeders.

Common scams include using stolen photos, advertising kittens that don't actually exist, demanding full payment upfront, asking for payment via gift cards of some sort, refusing video calls, or claiming kittens are ready to ship immediately. Some scammers even create convincing websites and social media pages that appear legitimate.

When searching for a breeder, take your time. Look for transparency, health testing, registration with recognized organizations, references from previous buyers, and a willingness to answer your questions. A reputable breeder will never pressure you into making a quick decision and will be just as interested in finding the right home for their kittens as you are in finding the right kitten.

Remember: you're interviewing the breeder just as much as the breeder is interviewing you. A responsible breeder welcomes informed buyers because they know educated owners make the best lifelong homes.

One of the easiest ways to begin verifying a breeder is to check whether they have a registered cattery with recognized organizations such as CFA or TICA. While registration alone does not guarantee an ethical breeder, it is an important first step. Ask for the breeder's registered cattery name, verify that it exists, and don't hesitate to request proof that the parents are registered.

Our registered cattery name is Treska. We encourage every prospective family to verify our registration, ask questions about our breeding program, review our health testing, and take the time to get to know us before placing a deposit.

A reputable breeder will welcome your questions and appreciate that you're doing your homework. If a breeder becomes irritated when you ask questions, refuses to provide documentation, or pressures you to send a deposit immediately, consider those significant red flags.

The good news is that there are many ethical, dedicated Maine Coon breeders who genuinely care about preserving and improving this incredible breed. A little research goes a long way toward ensuring you bring home a healthy, well-socialized kitten from someone you can trust.

When Can My Kitten Go Home?

Our kittens are ready to join their forever families between 12 and 14 weeks of age. This additional time allows for proper socialization, age-appropriate vaccinations, veterinary care, and a healthy transition from life with their mother and littermates.

Families are invited to meet the kittens and pick their favorite when the kittens are approximately 6 weeks old. To ensure the process is fair, kitten selection is offered in the order that families initially contacted us.

Once your kitten is ready, we will schedule a convenient pickup time. While we know everyone is excited to bring their new family member home, we believe giving our kittens the best possible start in life is well worth the wait.

What is the Adoption Process?

Our goal is to make the adoption process as smooth and enjoyable as possible for both our kittens and their future families.

The first step is reaching out to introduce yourself and tell us a little about your family and what you're looking for in a Maine Coon companion. We are always happy to answer questions and help determine whether one of our kittens may be a good fit.

We do not accept deposits before kittens are born. Once a litter arrives and the kittens are approximately 6 weeks old, families are invited to meet the kittens and make their selection. To ensure the process is fair, kitten selection is offered in the order that families initially contacted us. At that time, deposits are accepted to reserve a specific kitten.

Before going home, our kittens receive age-appropriate veterinary care, vaccinations, and plenty of socialization. Kittens are ready to leave for their forever homes between 12 and 14 weeks of age, giving them the best possible start in life.

Even after adoption day, we remain available to answer questions and provide support. Once a kitten joins your family, you become part of the Treska Maine Coons family as well.

What is the Purchase Agreement?

We believe there should be no surprises when bringing home a Treska Maine Coon kitten. For that reason, we invite prospective families to review our purchase agreement before placing a deposit. Our contract is designed to protect the health and well-being of our kittens while clearly outlining the responsibilities of both the breeder and the buyer. If you have any questions about any provision, please don't hesitate to contact us—we're always happy to discuss it.

x🐾 treska maine coons, llc 🐾 kitten contract (3).pdf

Can Kittens Be Shipped or Delivered?

We do not ship kittens cargo. However, we may work with a trusted, approved courier for hand delivery depending on location and weather. All courier arrangements must be approved by Treska Maine Coons.

I Am Interested in Getting a Kitten - What Should I Do?

If you're interested in a kitten from an upcoming litter, message me and I'd be happy to add your name to my Interested Families List. There is no obligation and no deposit required to join the list.

Once the kittens are born, everyone on the Interested Families List will be notified of the number of kittens, their sexes, and any exciting updates. When the kittens are approximately 5 to 6 weeks old, families on the list will be invited to visit the kittens, meet them in person, and spend time getting to know their personalities before making a reservation.

Following the visits, everyone on the Interested Families List will be notified at the same time that deposits are being accepted. To ensure the process is fair, kitten selection is based on the order deposits are received. The first deposit received receives first choice of the available kittens, the second deposit receives second choice, and so on.

This approach gives families the opportunity to meet the kittens before making a commitment while allowing me additional time to observe each kitten's personality and development. It ensures every interested family has an equal opportunity to reserve the kitten that's the best fit for their home.

Should I Adopt A Male or Female Kitten?

One of the most common questions I receive is whether males or females make better pets. The truth is, both make wonderful companions, and the best choice often comes down to your personal preferences and the individual kitten's personality.

In general, males tend to be larger, with broader heads, heavier bone structure, and the impressive mane that many people associate with the Maine Coon breed. They are often described as laid-back, goofy, affectionate, and eager to be involved in whatever you're doing. If you're looking for that big, teddy bear personality, a male may be a perfect fit.

Females are typically a bit smaller and more refined in appearance, but they are every bit as loving. While females are generally smaller than males, they are by no means small cats. It's not uncommon for an adult female Maine Coon to outweigh many male cats of other breeds. Many owners describe females as intelligent, curious, and independent while still forming incredibly strong bonds with their families. Stevie is living proof in our home. She has clearly earned the title of resident genius—always the first to investigate something new, endlessly curious, and somehow seems to know what's going on before any of the males - and she keeps all the boys in check. 

That said, every Maine Coon is an individual. Personality is influenced by genetics, early socialization, and life experiences, so there are plenty of cuddly females and plenty of playful, mischievous males. At Treska Maine Coons, I spend countless hours loving, handling, and interacting with my kittens every day so they grow into friendly, confident, and people-oriented family members.

At Treska Maine Coons, we encourage families to choose the kitten they connect with rather than focusing solely on sex. That's one of the reasons we wait until the kittens are approximately 5 to 6 weeks old before accepting deposits. By then, families are invited to visit the kittens, begin seeing their unique personalities emerge, and choose the kitten that feels like the perfect fit for their home.

If you ask me which I prefer, I honestly can't choose. I've completely fallen in love with both the boys and the girls. Each has their own unique personality, and I've learned that connecting with the right kitten is far more important than whether they're male or female.

What Is Included When I Adopt a Treska Maine Coon?

Each kitten comes with a veterinary health record, age-appropriate vaccinations, a written two-year health guarantee, registration papers, and a lifetime of breeder support.

When Should I Spay/Neuter My Kitten?

At Treska Maine Coons, our goal is to give every kitten the best opportunity to develop into a healthy adult Maine Coon. Maine Coons are a large, slow-maturing breed that often do not reach full physical maturity until 3 to 5 years of age. Natural sex hormones play an important role in musculoskeletal development, including bone density, muscle development, ligament strength, cartilage health, and skeletal maturation. While veterinary recommendations regarding the ideal age for spay or neuter vary, our breeding philosophy is to allow Maine Coons the opportunity to mature naturally during their first year of life. For this reason, we recommend delaying spay or neuter until approximately 12 months of age whenever it can be done safely and responsibly. Buyers are encouraged to discuss the timing of spay or neuter with their veterinarian. However, because this recommendation is an important part of our health program, spaying or neutering before 12 months of age will void Treska Maine Coons' two-year health guarantee.

Are Your Kittens Registered?

Yes — all Treska Maine Coon kittens are registered with both TICA (The International Cat Association) and CFA (The Cat Fanciers’ Association), ensuring verified pedigrees and adherence to breed standards.

Why Is Buying From A Reputable Breeder Important?

Bringing a new kitten into your family is a commitment that can last 15 years or more, which is why choosing a responsible breeder matters. Reputable breeders prioritize the health, temperament, and wellbeing of their cats through health testing, thoughtful breeding decisions, proper veterinary care, and early socialization.

A responsibly bred kitten is raised in a clean, nurturing environment and receives the care and attention needed to develop into a healthy, confident companion. Responsible breeders are also available to answer questions, provide guidance, and support their kitten families long after the kitten goes home.

While it may be tempting to choose the least expensive option, the true value of a well-bred kitten often becomes clear over time. Investing in a healthy, well-socialized Maine Coon from a responsible breeder can help reduce the risk of future health and behavioral issues while giving your family the best possible start with a lifelong companion. Behind every reputable breeder is an enormous investment of time, health testing, veterinary care, premium nutrition, registration fees, and daily hands-on socialization. When you look beyond the purchase price, you'll often find t

How Do I Know You're a Reputable Breeder?

Choosing a breeder is one of the most important decisions you'll make when adding a Maine Coon to your family. A reputable breeder is transparent, knowledgeable, and committed to improving the breed—not simply producing kittens.

At Treska Maine Coons, we're proud to:

  • Be registered with both TICA (The International Cat Association) and CFA (Cat Fanciers' Association).
  • Health test all breeding cats before they enter our breeding program.
  • Raise our kittens in our home with daily socialization, enrichment, and individual attention.
  • Provide veterinary care, vaccinations, deworming, and a complete health record before each kitten goes home.
  • Offer a written health guarantee and comprehensive purchase contract.
  • Remain available to our kitten families for lifelong guidance and support.
  • Prioritize temperament, health, and breed type over quantity.

We also believe that a reputable breeder should be happy to answer your questions, share information about their breeding program, and allow you to get to know the cats behind their kittens. We encourage prospective families to explore our website, ask questions, and take the time to find the breeder that's right for them.

A well-bred Maine Coon is more than just a beautiful cat—it's a lifelong companion. Choosing the right breeder is the first step toward bringing home a healthy, well-socialized kitten that will be part of your family for years to come.

What Questions Should I Ask A Breeder?

✔️ Are your breeding cats health tested?

Yes. At Treska Maine Coons, all of our breeding cats undergo appropriate health testing before entering our breeding program to help ensure we're producing healthy kittens.

✔️ Are your cats registered with CFA and/or TICA?

Absolutely. All of our breeding cats are registered with both the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) and The International Cat Association (TICA).  We also register all litters.

✔️ Are the kittens raised in your home?

Yes. Every Treska Maine Coon kitten is born and raised in our home, where they receive daily love, socialization, enrichment, and individual attention from day one.

✔️ Do you provide a written health guarantee?

Yes. Every kitten goes home with a written health guarantee, health record, and veterinary documentation for your peace of mind.

✔️ Will you be available for support after I take my kitten home?

Absolutely! At Treska Maine Coons, my relationship with our kitten families doesn't end on adoption day. I'm available before, during, and long after your kitten comes home to answer questions and provide guidance whenever you need it.

✔️ Can you tell me about the kitten's parents and pedigree?

Yes. We proudly introduce each of our sires and dams on our website, along with information about their pedigrees, health testing, and accomplishments.

✔️ Do you require a contract?

Yes. Every buyer signs a comprehensive purchase agreement designed to protect both the kitten and the buyer while clearly outlining the responsibilities and expectations of everyone involved.


A reputable breeder should welcome your questions. If a breeder is unwilling to discuss their breeding practices, health testing, or how their kittens are raised, don't be afraid to keep looking. Your future companion is worth the time and research.

 

How Long Have You Been Breeding Maine Coons?

Although Treska Maine Coons is a newer cattery, my journey with the breed began years ago as a devoted Maine Coon owner. My passion quickly grew beyond simply owning these incredible cats, leading me into the world of cat shows, where I exhibited my beloved Sully. While we didn't always win, I never lost my enthusiasm or determination. I continued to learn, improve, and show because I truly loved the breed and wanted to become the best breeder I could be.

Throughout that journey, I was fortunate to be mentored by Greg of Coberman Maine Coons, who has more than 30 years of breeding experience. After witnessing my dedication, perseverance, and commitment to the breed, Greg entrusted me with Stevie Nicks—a tremendous honor and a milestone that marked the beginning of Treska Maine Coons. His mentorship continues to be an invaluable part of my breeding program, and I remain committed to continuing my education and raising healthy, well-socialized Maine Coons that exemplify the very best of the breed.

While Treska Maine Coons may be a newer cattery, it is built upon the guidance, mentorship, and support of more than 30 years of responsible Maine Coon breeding experience. Greg is highly respected throughout the Maine Coon community for his decades of dedication to the breed, his integrity, and his willingness to generously share his knowledge with others. I will always be grateful that our paths crossed and that he placed his trust in me. His confidence, mentorship, and friendship have been invaluable, and I feel incredibly fortunate to call him both my mentor and my friend.

Do You Offer Breeding Rights?

No, all of our kittens are placed as pet-only and must be spayed or neutered by 12–18 months of age. Early alteration of males before 12 months will void the health guarantee.  Registration papers will not be provided to buyer until proof of spay or neuter is provided to seller.

Are Maine Coons Good With Other Animals?

In general, yes! Maine Coons are known for their friendly, social, and easygoing personalities. Many get along wonderfully with other cats, dogs, and even smaller pets when introduced properly. Their adaptable nature and confident temperament often make them excellent additions to multi-pet households.

Of course, every animal is an individual, and proper introductions are important. We recommend taking things slowly and allowing new pets to adjust at their own pace. With patience and supervision, Maine Coons often form strong bonds with both their human and furry family members.

Our cats are raised in a busy home environment and are accustomed to being around other cats from an early age, helping them develop the social skills that make the breed so beloved.

Do Maine Coons Really Chirp and Trill Instead of Meow?

Yes! While Maine Coons certainly meow, they're much more famous for their adorable chirps, trills, and other soft, conversational sounds. Many owners say their Maine Coons seem to "talk" to them throughout the day.

One of our favorite things about living with Maine Coons is how unique each cat's voice is. Every one of our cats has their own distinct chirps and trills, and we've learned to recognize who's calling us without even looking. It's one of those little everyday moments that never gets old and just adds to the charm of this incredible breed.

What Colors & Patterns Do You Produce?

Our Maine Coons come in a variety of beautiful colors and patterns, but availability depends on the litter. Because we focus on quality, health, and temperament, we cannot guarantee specific colors, patterns, or sexes in advance.  

How Much Do Maine Coons Eat?

Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds, so it's no surprise that they tend to eat more than the average cat. The exact amount depends on age, activity level, metabolism, and overall size. Growing kittens often seem to have bottomless appetites and may eat several meals throughout the day as they develop.

Adult Maine Coons generally require more food than smaller breeds to maintain their size and muscle mass. We recommend feeding a high-quality diet (see our recommended products page here) and monitoring your cat's body condition rather than focusing solely on a specific amount of food.

As anyone who has met our cats can attest, some Maine Coons are convinced every meal may be their last. Julian, for example, has never once looked at his food bowl and thought, "You know, I think I've had enough."

How Big Do Maine Coons Get?

Maine Coons are often referred to as the "gentle giants" of the cat world, and for good reason. While every cat is different, adult females typically weigh between 10 and 15 pounds, while males often range from 15 to 25 pounds or more. Unlike many breeds, Maine Coons are slow to mature and may continue growing until they are 3 to 5 years old.

Weight is only part of the story, however. Maine Coons are known for their long bodies, substantial bone structure, large paws, and impressive tails, making them appear even larger than the number on the scale might suggest.

Need proof? Our boy King Julian currently weighs 26 pounds and still insists on being carried around like a baby.

Why Are Maine Coons Called the "Gentle Giants?"

Maine Coons have earned the nickname "Gentle Giants" because they combine their impressive size with an exceptionally affectionate, gentle, and easygoing personality. Despite being one of the largest domestic cat breeds, they are known for their friendly nature, intelligence, and patience with children, other cats, and even dogs.

They love being involved in whatever their family is doing. Instead of constantly meowing, they communicate with adorable chirps and trills. They enjoy playing well into adulthood, often have a fascination with water, and are incredibly loyal companions who tend to form strong bonds with their families.

While every cat has its own unique personality, a well-socialized Maine Coon is like having the heart of a best friend in the body of a magnificent cat. It's this combination of size, beauty, and gentle temperament that has made the breed so beloved around the world.

Are Maine Coons Hypoallergenic?

No, Maine Coons are not considered hypoallergenic. Like all cats, they produce proteins in their saliva, skin, and dander that can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.

That said, some people with cat allergies report fewer symptoms around Maine Coons than with other breeds. While there is no guarantee, many families find that they tolerate Maine Coons surprisingly well. In fact, my husband is allergic to cats, yet we share our home with quite a few Maine Coons! Over time, he has adjusted well, though individual experiences can vary.

If you have cat allergies, we always recommend spending time around Maine Coons before making a decision. Every person's allergies are different, and what works for one family may not work for another.

Have Another Question?

I'd love to help! If your question isn't answered here, please don't hesitate to contact me. I enjoy talking about Maine Coons almost as much as I enjoy raising them. 🐾

The work doesn't stop when the cats are fed or the litter boxes are clean. I spend countless hours researching the breed, improving my breeding program, photographing my cats, updating this website, and creating educational resources for future kitten families. It's truly a labor of love and one I'm passionate about every single day. My goal is for every family to feel informed, supported, and confident—not only when they bring home a kitten, but throughout the life of their Maine Coon.

Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Treska Maine Coons. What began as a love for this extraordinary breed has grown into a lifelong passion for raising cats that embody the Maine Coon’s signature beauty, health, and gentle spirit. Every kitten we raise represents our dedication to excellence, integrity, and heart. Perfection doesn’t happen overnight  - but a Treska Maine Coon comes pretty close!  Whether you’re here to learn, admire, or someday welcome a Treska kitten into your home, we’re grateful you stopped by and hope our love for these magnificent cats shines through in every detail.