Maine Coons can be affected by inherited and acquired health problems, as can all cats. PDSA highlights hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia and patellar luxation among breed-related concerns. These affect the heart or joints, but being at risk does not mean every individual will develop them. Ask a breeder about appropriate screening and discuss your cat's history with a vet. Avoid using a list of breed conditions to diagnose a symptom yourself: reduced activity, appetite changes or reluctance to jump can have many causes.
Keep routine healthcare and observation consistent throughout life. Furniture may support comfortable access, but it does not prevent or treat heart disease or joint disease. If a cat's needs change, adapt the environment alongside veterinary advice. The most useful response to breed risk is informed care and appropriate assessment, not either panic about every behaviour or confidence that a healthy-looking cat cannot have a problem.
For product comparisons alongside this advice, see Kitty Buffet and Purr-Celain bowl. The details below explain their sizes and uses.
Related products
These are everyday equipment comparisons, not treatments. Follow the veterinary advice in the answer first.
Kitty BuffetTwo removable ceramic bowls in a 40 × 16 × 16 cm bamboo stand, useful when comparing bowl cleaning and feeding-station space.
Purr-Celain bowlAn elevated ceramic bowl to compare with your cat’s current feeding position. Choose by comfortable access and ease of cleaning.
2.5 L stainless-steel water fountainA corded 2.5 L fountain with two flow modes and a water-level window. Allow room for cleaning and continue checking water every day.
Further reading: cats.org.uk; bva.co.uk; battersea.org.uk; cats.org.uk; pdsa.org.uk; pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; pdsa.org.uk; cats.org.uk.
Additional sources: www.pdsa.org.uk
