How to Feed Your Maine Coon: Feeding Chart & Tips

Maine Coon Feeding Chart: Your Complete Guide to Proper Nutrition

Maine Coons are not just cats they’re majestic, larger-than-life companions that deserve the best care, especially when it comes to their diet. As one of the largest cat breeds, their nutritional needs are unique, and understanding what, how much, and when to feed them can significantly impact their growth and health.

This guide dives deep into feeding schedules, portion sizes, and food types to ensure your Maine Coon stays healthy and happy. Let’s make feeding your Maine Coon a stress-free and rewarding experience!

Maine Coon Feeding Schedule

Just like us, cats thrive on routine, and Maine Coons are no exception. Sticking to a regular feeding schedule helps regulate their metabolism, keeps them energetic, and prevents overeating.

General Feeding Schedule

Time	What to Feed	Example
Morning (7-8 AM)	Wet food + Dry food combo	60g wet food + 20g dry kibble
Afternoon (12 PM)*	Light snack (kittens)	15g of dry food or small treat
Evening (6-7 PM)	Wet food + Supplements (optional)	60g wet food

Why Consistency Matters

A consistent feeding schedule prevents hunger-driven overeating, especially for kittens who need frequent meals. For adult Maine Coons, two meals a day are sufficient.

Maine Coon Feeding Chart by Age and Weight

To meet their dietary needs at every stage, follow this detailed feeding chart:

Age	Approximate Weight	Amount to Feed	Feeding Schedule
0-1 week	50-150 grams	2-6 ml kitten formula	Every 2 hours
1-2 weeks	150-250 grams	6-10 ml kitten formula	Every 2-3 hours
2-3 weeks	250-350 grams	10-14 ml kitten formula	Every 3-4 hours
3-4 weeks	350-450 grams	14-18 ml kitten formula	Every 4-5 hours
4-5 weeks	450-550 grams	18-22 ml kitten formula	Every 5-6 hours
5-8 weeks	550-850 grams	Wet kitten food	Every 6 hours
8 weeks-4 months	2-5 pounds	250-360 calories per day	Every 6-8 hours
4-6 months	5-6.5 pounds	60-65 calories per pound	Every 8 hours
6-12 months	6-9 pounds	Transition to adult food	Every 8 hours
1+ year	9+ pounds	20-33 calories per pound	Twice daily

Maine Coon kittens grow rapidly in their first year. Use this chart to adjust portions as they grow to avoid over- or underfeeding.

Good Food to Feed Your Maine Coon

Maine Coons are natural hunters and carnivores, so their diet should mimic what they’d eat in the wild: high in protein and low in fillers like grains.

Here’s a breakdown of the best food types:

Top Food Choices for Maine Coons

Food Type	Recommended Options	Benefits
Wet Food	Royal Canin Maine Coon, Tiki Cat	Hydration, high protein
Dry Food	Orijen, Royal Canin Maine Coon Formula	Dental health, easy to store
Homemade Diet	Cooked chicken, turkey, salmon, lamb	Control over ingredients

When I introduced high-quality wet food to my Maine Coon, their coat became shinier, and they seemed more active. It’s worth investing in premium food!

What Not to Feed a Maine Coon

While Maine Coons have hearty appetites, there are certain foods you should never feed them.

Chocolate and Caffeine: Highly toxic and can cause severe health issues.
Grapes and Raisins: Known to cause kidney damage in cats.
Raw Meat or Fish (unprepared): Can carry harmful bacteria or parasites.
Excessive Carbs: Foods like bread or pasta can lead to obesity.

Once, I accidentally left a slice of raisin bread out, and my curious cat nearly pounced on it. Keeping harmful foods out of reach is essential!

How Many Calories Does My Maine Coon Need?

To determine calorie needs, consider their weight, age, and activity levels:

Life Stage	Calories Per Pound	Example (15 lbs Maine Coon)
Kitten	60-65 calories	900-975 calories
Adult	40-45 calories	600-675 calories
Senior	30-35 calories	450-525 calories

Maine Coon Feeding Summary

To summarize everything:

Age/Weight	Calories/Day	Meals Per Day
Kitten (0-6 months)	250-360 kcal	3-4
Adult (1-7 years)	400-600 kcal	2
Senior (8+ years)	300-400 kcal	2

Conclusion

Feeding your Maine Coon isn’t just about filling their bowl—it’s about ensuring they live a long, healthy, and vibrant life. By understanding their nutritional needs, sticking to a consistent feeding schedule, and choosing high-quality food, you’re giving them the best care possible.

Every Maine Coon is unique, so don’t hesitate to adjust based on their preferences or consult your vet for tailored advice. With the right diet, your Maine Coon will thrive, bringing joy and companionship to your life for years to come.

FAQ’s

How much should I feed my Maine Coon kitten?

Maine Coon kittens need specific portions based on their age and weight. Use the feeding chart to adjust meals as they grow, offering kitten formula initially, then wet and dry food after 5-8 weeks.

How often should I feed my adult Maine Coon?

Adult Maine Coons should be fed twice a day. You can split their meals into morning and evening to maintain a consistent routine and avoid overeating.

What is the best food for Maine Coons?

High-protein wet and dry food are ideal for Maine Coons. Look for brands like Royal Canin Maine Coon and Orijen, which support their unique dietary needs.

What foods should I avoid feeding my Maine Coon?

Avoid chocolate, grapes, raisins, raw fish, and excessive carbs, as these can be toxic or harmful to your Maine Coon’s health.

How many calories does a Maine Coon need?

The calorie intake for a Maine Coon depends on age and weight. Kittens need 60-65 calories per pound, while adults require 40-45 calories per pound, with adjustments for activity level.

What is the feeding schedule for a Maine Coon?

Kittens need frequent meals (every 2-6 hours), while adults can be fed twice a day. Refer to the feeding chart for the ideal schedule based on your cat’s age and weight.