Wisconsin Breeder
European Maine Coon Ethical Breeder Wisconsin
Johnson Creek, WI - Jefferson County, USA - Midwest
Kittens - Johnson Creek, WI
Johnson Creek, WI - Jefferson County, USA - Midwest
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European Maine Coon Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Top European Maine Coon Questions

You most likely have lots of European Maine Coon Questions! We're here to help answer as many as we can!

Bella Maine Coons offers full transparency in how we raise, care for, feed, and socialize our Maine Coons. We hope you're doing your research to choose a breeder with confidence, even if it's not us.

Midwest Maine Coons

European Maine Coon Questions

Wisconsin Ethical Breeder

Importance of Registered Breeders

When you have European Maine Coon questions, it’s essential to understand the significance of registered breeders. They conduct health screenings and genetic testing. This ensures the kittens are healthy and free from hereditary issues. They follow a strict code of ethics, which includes proper socialization, care, and breeding practices. Registered breeders provide pedigree certificates and health records. This gives you a clear understanding of the kitten’s lineage. They are knowledgeable about the breed and can offer guidance on care, training, and health issues.

Does Registration Guarantee Ethics?

When you have European Maine Coon questions, remember that registration with organizations like TICA, CFA, or WCF is a good indicator of a breeder’s commitment to ethical practices. However, it doesn’t automatically guarantee ethics. Unfortunately, some backyard breeders and profit breeders hide behind the mask of these organizations. They might misuse their membership to appear legitimate. Their practices may not align with the expected ethical standards. This allows them to fool customers and even veterinarians into believing they are qualified and responsible breeders.

How to Protect Yourself from Unscrupulous Breeders

When you have Maine Coon questions, it’s crucial to do your own research. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous buyers. This will give you insight into the breeder’s reputation. Visit the breeder’s facility. Ensure it’s clean and that the animals are well cared for. Ask questions. Inquire about health tests, socialization practices, and the breeder’s experience. Request documentation. A reputable breeder should willingly provide health records and pedigree information.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that you are supporting ethical breeding practices. This will help you bring home a healthy, well-adjusted kitten. Maine Coon questions deserve thorough answers to help you make informed decisions. Supporting ethical breeders is crucial for the well-being of these beautiful cats.

The Reality of Pet Health: Understanding Health Issues in Ethically Bred Kittens

When prospective pet owners seek a new furry companion, many turn to ethical and responsible breeders. These breeders are dedicated to maintaining the health and well-being of their cats and kittens. They invest considerable time, effort, and resources to ensure their animals are healthy and well-socialized. However, even in the best environments, health issues like ringworm or heart murmurs can still occasionally occur. This article aims to shed light on this reality, dispel misconceptions, and reassure new pet owners.

Commitment to Health and Well-Being

Ethical breeders prioritize the health of their cats and kittens. They conduct rigorous health testing, provide regular veterinary care, and maintain clean and enriching environments. Additionally, genetic tests are conducted to screen for hereditary diseases. As a result, they ensure that breeding pairs are healthy and provide high-quality nutrition and socialization for their animals. Despite these efforts, kittens can still develop health issues like ringworm or heart murmurs after leaving the breeder’s care.

Understanding Ringworm and Heart Murmurs

What is Ringworm?

Ringworm is a common fungal infection affecting the skin, hair, and nails of animals and humans. Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but by dermatophytes, a type of fungus. It manifests as circular, red, and itchy patches on the skin, which can cause hair loss in affected areas.

What are Heart Murmurs?

Heart murmurs are abnormal sounds heard during a heartbeat. They can be caused by various factors, including blood flow irregularities or heart valve issues. In some cases, heart murmurs are benign and do not indicate a serious health problem.

Common Issues in Kittens

In addition to ringworm and heart murmurs, kittens might face other common issues regardless of the breeder’s meticulous care:

  • Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs): These are akin to colds in humans and can occur despite the best care. They are treatable with veterinary guidance.

  • Parasites: Common parasites like fleas and ear mites can occasionally occur. Regular check-ups and appropriate treatments can manage these effectively.

  • Gastrointestinal Upsets: Kittens might experience digestive issues as they transition to new homes or diets. Proper diet management and veterinary care can address these concerns.

Addressing Misconceptions

It’s crucial to emphasize that the occurrence of ringworm, heart murmurs, or other health issues is not indicative of negligent breeding practices. Ethical breeders take every precaution to prevent such issues, but some health concerns are unavoidable due to the nature of contagious infections and genetic variability. The development of these issues in a kitten should not be viewed as a reflection of the breeder’s practices. Instead, it is an unfortunate but manageable aspect of pet ownership.

Managing Health Issues

The good news is that health issues like ringworm and heart murmurs can be managed with proper veterinary care. If a new pet owner notices signs of ringworm or if a heart murmur is detected during a veterinary exam, they should follow the recommended treatment and monitoring protocols.

Steps to Take for Ringworm:

  • Consult a Veterinarian: A veterinarian can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

  • Medications: Antifungal medications, both oral and topical, are effective in treating ringworm. Follow the vet’s instructions carefully.

  • Environmental Cleaning: Regularly clean and disinfect the kitten’s living area to eliminate fungal spores and prevent reinfection.

Steps to Take for Heart Murmurs:

  • Regular Veterinary Check-Ups: Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the heart murmur and assess its impact on the kitten’s health.

  • Diagnostic Tests: Additional tests, such as echocardiograms, may be recommended to determine the cause and severity of the murmur.

  • Monitoring and Management: In many cases, heart murmurs may not require treatment and may resolve as the kitten grows. For more serious cases, the veterinarian will provide guidance on managing the condition.

Conclusion

The goal of ethical and responsible breeders is to provide healthy and happy kittens. However, it’s important to acknowledge that health issues like ringworm or heart murmurs can still occur. These issues are not a reflection of the breeder’s practices but rather a common aspect of pet ownership. By understanding this reality and taking prompt action, new pet owners can ensure the well-being of their kittens and enjoy the many joys of having a feline companion.

Ethical breeders remain committed to the health and happiness of their animals, providing ongoing support and guidance to new pet owners. By fostering open communication and addressing any concerns promptly, breeders and pet owners can work together to ensure the best possible outcomes for their beloved pets.

The Importance of Keeping Kittens with Their Mother and Littermates Until 14 Weeks Old

The bond between a mother cat and her kittens is profound and essential for their healthy development. While playful and curious kittens can be irresistible, it’s crucial to keep them with their mother and littermates until they are at least 14 weeks old. This period is critical for their physical, emotional, and social development. Removing them too early can have long-lasting negative effects. Here’s why it’s important to allow kittens to stay with their family for those vital weeks.

Physical Development

During the first 14 weeks, kittens undergo significant physical growth and development. Their mother’s milk provides essential nutrients vital for their immune system, bone growth, and overall health. Weaning too early can deprive them of these nutrients, leading to weakened immunity and potential health issues. Staying with their mother allows kittens to learn important self-grooming habits, crucial for their hygiene and well-being.

Emotional and Social Development

Kittens learn a great deal from their mother and littermates during the first few weeks of life. This period is crucial for their emotional and social development. Through play and interaction with their siblings, kittens develop important skills such as bite inhibition, body language, and social hierarchy. They learn how to communicate, explore their environment, and handle stress. Removing a kitten too early can lead to behavioral issues, such as aggression, anxiety, and difficulty in socializing with other cats and humans.

Learning from the Mother

The mother cat plays a vital role in teaching her kittens essential life skills. She guides them in using the litter box, hunting instincts, and understanding boundaries. Observing and mimicking their mother helps kittens gain confidence and learn how to navigate their surroundings safely. These lessons are fundamental for their independence and overall well-being.

Building a Strong Immune System

The first few weeks of life are critical for building a strong immune system. The antibodies passed from the mother to her kittens through her milk provide them with the necessary defense against common diseases and infections. By staying with their mother until 14 weeks, kittens receive the full benefit of this natural immunity boost, giving them a healthier start in life.

The Impact of Early Separation

Removing a kitten from its mother and littermates too early can have lasting negative consequences. Kittens separated too soon may struggle with fear, insecurity, and trust issues. They may also have difficulty adjusting to their new environment, leading to increased stress and behavioral problems. Ensuring they stay with their family for at least 14 weeks allows them to develop a sense of security and stability, crucial for their overall development.

The Role of Responsible Breeders

Legitimate, ethical, and responsible breeders understand the importance of keeping kittens with their mother and littermates until they are at least 14 weeks old. They prioritize the health and well-being of their cats, ensuring each kitten is given the best possible start in life. These breeders invest heavily in their cats’ environment, providing high-quality, all-natural food, ample toys, and veterinary care. By waiting until the kittens are ready, they ensure each one is well-adjusted, healthy, and prepared for their new home.

Conclusion

The first 14 weeks of a kitten’s life are crucial for their physical, emotional, and social development. Keeping them with their mother and littermates during this time provides them with the foundation they need to grow into healthy, well-adjusted cats. By understanding and respecting this important period, we can ensure that our feline friends lead happy and fulfilling lives. If you are considering adopting a kitten, please be patient and allow them the time they need with their family. Your understanding and compassion will make all the difference in their future well-being.

One-Year Health Guarantee: Ensuring the Well-Being of Our Maine Coon Kittens

As dedicated breeders of Maine Coons, we take immense pride in the health and well-being of our cats. Our commitment to responsible breeding is reflected in our one-year health guarantee for genetic disorders or defects. This guarantee showcases the care and diligence we invest in raising and health testing our cats and their litters. Here’s an in-depth look at our one-year health guarantee and the measures we take to ensure the best start for our kittens.

Comprehensive Health Guarantee

Our one-year health guarantee covers any genetic disorders or defects that may arise within the first year of the kitten’s life. If a genetic issue is confirmed by a necropsy report, we will provide a replacement kitten. This guarantee underscores our confidence in our kittens’ health and genetic soundness. It is voided if the kitten is not examined by a veterinarian within three business days of arriving at its new home.

Rigorous Health Testing

Ethical breeding begins with thorough health testing of our breeding cats. We conduct comprehensive screenings to identify and eliminate hereditary conditions that could be passed on to the kittens. Key tests we perform include:

  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A common heart condition in cats. We ensure our breeding cats are tested for HCM to prevent this disorder from being passed on to their offspring.

  • Hip Dysplasia: This genetic condition affects the hip joints. By testing our breeding cats, we aim to minimize this issue in our kittens.

  • Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA): This inherited disorder affects muscle function. Testing our breeding cats helps ensure that only healthy cats are bred.

  • Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP): Although not hereditary, these diseases can be devastating. We test our breeding cats to ensure they are free from these infections.

Optimal Living Conditions

Our commitment to our cats’ health extends beyond genetic testing. We provide a nurturing and enriching environment that supports their physical and emotional well-being. Our breeding cats and their litters live in spacious, clean, and comfortable surroundings. This environment promotes healthy development and reduces stress, contributing to the overall health of our cats.

High-Quality Nutrition

Nutrition plays a crucial role in the health of our cats. We provide an all-natural and nutritionally complete raw food diet, supplemented with human-grade dry and wet food. This diet ensures our breeding cats and their litters receive the essential nutrients they need to thrive. Proper nutrition supports their immune system and promotes healthy growth.

Regular Veterinary Care

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to maintaining our breeding cats’ health. We ensure that all our cats receive routine veterinary care, including vaccinations, deworming, and preventative treatments. This proactive approach helps us catch any potential health issues early.

Socialization and Emotional Well-Being

We prioritize the socialization and emotional well-being of our kittens. From an early age, our kittens are exposed to various stimuli and interactions, helping them develop into well-adjusted and confident cats. This early socialization is crucial for their emotional development.

Conclusion

Our one-year health guarantee for genetic disorders or defects reflects our unwavering commitment to ethical breeding and the well-being of our Maine Coon kittens. By investing in rigorous health testing, optimal living conditions, high-quality nutrition, and regular veterinary care, we ensure that our kittens have the best possible start in life. As ethical breeders, we take every step to raise healthy, happy, and well-adjusted Maine Coons, providing peace of mind to their future families.

Your Non-Refundable Deposit for a Maine Coon Kitten

Your $500 deposit for a Maine Coon kitten is non-refundable. Once a hold is placed on a kitten, we cease promoting it to other potential buyers. However, if you change your mind about the original kitten, you may select a different available kitten from a current or future litter. This ensures you have the flexibility to choose the perfect furry companion while we maintain our commitment to each kitten’s future home.

Staying Connected with Your Kitten’s Journey

We keep you updated on your kitten’s progress by providing new videos and photos every two weeks. This allows you to witness your kitten’s growth and development. You’ll stay connected with their journey until they join your home. By sharing these updates, we ensure you feel involved and excited about your future furry companion.

Ensuring the Health of Our Kittens

To prevent contamination and preserve the health of our kittens, we do not allow visits to our cattery. Instead, we offer live FaceTime chats from inside our cattery, allowing you to see the environment and lifestyle they are raised in. We also encourage buyers to meet us in person at our store, “Natural Carnivore.” Personal interactions with our kittens are not permitted until they have received their first round of vaccinations, typically around 8 weeks old. This approach ensures the safety and well-being of our kittens while keeping you connected with their upbringing.

Understanding Maine Coon Size Variability

We cannot guarantee how large your Maine Coon kitten will grow, as it can vary based on genetics and other factors. Even if one or both parents are massive, the kitten may not reach the same size. Sometimes, they can even outgrow their parents. Maine Coons typically take about 3 to 5 years to reach their full size. Males usually weigh between 18 to 25 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, weighing between 10 to 14 pounds. Some males have been known to reach 30 – 35 pounds!

Recommended Products for Your Maine Coon Kitten

We take great care in recommending the best products for your Maine Coon kitten to ensure their health, happiness, and well-being.

Food

Our top choice for food is a nutritionally complete raw food diet. Among our favorite brands are:

  • Vital Essentials: Known for their high-quality, freeze-dried raw diets that retain the nutritional integrity of the ingredients. Vital Essentials offers a variety of protein sources, including chicken, turkey, duck, and rabbit, ensuring your kitten gets a balanced and wholesome diet. Their facility is based in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

  • Steve’s Real Food: Offers a variety of raw food products made from hormone-free, antibiotic-free meats. Steve’s Real Food prides itself on providing complete and balanced nutrition using locally sourced ingredients. Their raw nuggets and patties are easy to serve and packed with essential nutrients. Their facility is located in Oregon.

  • Primal: Provides freeze-dried and raw food options using organic and sustainably-sourced ingredients. Primal’s formulas are crafted to mimic the natural diet of cats, ensuring optimal health. Their comprehensive range includes proteins like beef, pork, and venison, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. Primal’s facility is located in Fairfield, California.

More Brands

There are many other excellent brands available. For more options, feel free to visit our store, Natural Carnivore. For wet and dry food, we recommend and use:

  • Honest Kitchen: Known for human-grade, dehydrated pet food made from whole foods. Honest Kitchen’s recipes are made with high-quality ingredients, offering a convenient and nutritious alternative to raw diets. Their grain-free options cater to cats with specific dietary needs. Their production facilities are located in Topeka, Kansas, and they have co-manufacturing in Illinois.

  • Open Farm: Offers ethically sourced, high-quality wet and dry food options. Open Farm focuses on transparency and sustainability, using only ethically raised meats and wild-caught fish. Their recipes are free from artificial preservatives and fillers, ensuring your kitten gets the best nutrition. Open Farm’s facility is based in Toronto, Canada.

  • Carna4: Provides nutrient-dense, air-dried pet food with natural vitamins and minerals. Carna4’s formulas are crafted to be highly digestible and packed with essential nutrients, promoting overall health and vitality. Their facility is located in Quebec, Canada.

Litter

When it comes to litter, our absolute favorite is Sustainably Yours. This litter stands out for several reasons:

  • Eco-Friendly: Sustainably Yours is made from renewable and biodegradable materials, making it an environmentally responsible choice.

  • Superior Odor Control: It effectively neutralizes odors, keeping your home smelling fresh.

  • Low Dust: This litter produces minimal dust, which is better for your kitten’s respiratory health and easier to clean.

  • Clumping Ability: Sustainably Yours forms tight clumps, making it easy to scoop and maintain a clean litter box.

Following Sustainably Yours, we also recommend:

  • Dr. Elsey’s: Provides a variety of high-performance litters, including clumping and silica gel options. Dr. Elsey’s litters are known for their superior odor control and low dust formula, making them perfect for multi-cat households.

  • World’s Best Litter: Made from whole-kernel corn, it’s eco-friendly and provides excellent odor control. World’s Best Litter is lightweight, long-lasting, and safe for both cats and the environment.

Water Fountains and Dishes

We highly recommend stainless steel water fountains with excellent filtration and wide bowls. These help keep the water fresh and encourage drinking. Stainless steel is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to bacteria. Glass and ceramic dishes are also great options for their durability and ease of cleaning. They add a touch of elegance to your kitten’s feeding area while ensuring hygiene.

Litter Boxes

For a Maine Coon litter box, we use cement mixing tubs found at Menards, and also prefer large stainless steel litter boxes. These options provide ample space for your kitten to move comfortably and are easy to clean, ensuring a sanitary environment.

Toys and Enrichments

To keep your kitten engaged and happy, we recommend toys from:

  • Catit: Known for their interactive toys and stimulating activity centers. Catit offers a wide range of toys, including treat puzzles, tunnels, and scratching posts, designed to keep your kitten mentally and physically stimulated.

  • Trixie: Offers a wide range of puzzle toys and cat trees for mental and physical enrichment. Trixie’s products are designed to challenge your kitten’s mind and provide hours of entertainment.

  • Peacock Feathers: Natural and irresistible to cats, these are great for interactive play. Peacock feathers mimic the movements of prey, engaging your kitten’s hunting instincts and providing endless fun.

  • Various high-strength wands: Perfect for engaging playtime and exercise. High-strength wands with feather or toy attachments encourage your kitten to leap, pounce, and stay active.

We also love Shady Cat for their selection of catnip, silvervine, and valerian root. These natural stimulants can provide additional enrichment and joy for your kitten, helping them relax and enjoy their surroundings.

These recommendations are based on our own experience and dedication to providing the best for our Maine Coon cats. We hope they help you create a wonderful environment for your new kitten!

Perhaps one reason we are fascinated by cats is because such a small animal can contain so much independence, dignity, and freedom of spirit. Unlike the dog, the cat’s personality is never bet on a human’s. He demands acceptance on his own terms.
Lloyd Alexander
Cats have it all – admiration, an endless sleep, and company only when they want it.
Rod McKuen
Way down deep, we’re all motivated by the same urges. Cats have the courage to live by them.
Jim Davis
Cats choose us; we don’t own them.
Kristin Cast
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Thank you for consideringBella Maine Coons!

Love & Attention
Our mothers and kittens are monitored at all times in our home to ensure their comfort, safety, and health.
Raw All Natural Food
We spare no expense in feeding our cats. As obligate carnivores, they are fed a nutritionally complete raw all natural diet.
Veterinary Care
Our felines are given all the care they need, along with receiving necessary vaccinations and treatments if needed.
Socialization
From birth until their adoption day, our kittens develop and grow with their moms and litter-mates, and receive daily playtime with us.

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European Maine Coon Questions
Wisconsin, Midwest Breeder
Wisconsin, Midwest Breeder
Wisconsin, Midwest Breeder
Wisconsin, Midwest Breeder
Wisconsin, Midwest Breeder
Wisconsin, Midwest Breeder
Wisconsin, Midwest Breeder
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European Maine Coons
Natural Carnivore
540A Village Walk Lane
Johnson Creek, WI 53038
USA

All in person kitten viewings are held at our Raw Pet Food Store "Natural Carnivore"
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+1 920-253-7720
NaturalCarnivore@gmail.com
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