Breeds Of Cats: Maine Coon, Common Diseases And How To Prevent Them
Adopting a pet means taking care of it at 360 degrees. In the case of the Maine Coon, here are the most common diseases and how to intervene
Adopting a four-legged means taking care of him completely. The Maine Coons has some common diseases which it is good to know in order to be able to prevent or treat them promptly. It is essential to know how to recognize the symptoms, in order to be able to run for cover at the first signs. A ‘blank’ check is better than underestimating a possible health problem.
It’s not just about pampering and moments of harmony, but also making sure that he is at the best of his possibilities. This is why never skipping periodic checks at the vet, always boosting vaccines and applying the pesticide regularly become fundamental practices.
Knowing the genetics and predisposition of your specimen is essential. All races, in fact, have diseases to which they are more prone. Knowing what to expect is an act of responsibility towards those who depend entirely on us. You need to make sure you have all the tools – financial and emotional – to be supportive.
Maine Coon Life Expectancy
As a rule, the health of this four-legged friend is good. Especially if he is treated properly from the first months of life, it is probable that his life expectancy is respectable. Indeed, we speak of a range that goes from 12 to 15 years old. Unfortunately, however, there are issues that have to do with genetics and probabilities that it is good to know.
The more prepared you are about the Maine Coon and its common illnesses, and follow the vet advice of trust, the easier it is to stem and prevent any psychophysical discomforts of the one who is part of the family to all intents and purposes.
Maine Coon And The Most Common Diseases Of This Breed
It is a medium-large tonnage feline, out of the ordinary and more similar to that of a dog. The weight of the females is around four/six kilos while the males usually weigh between five and nine. It has one powerful, muscular build: overall appears massive and strong. However, appearances are one thing, reality can be very different and it is important to know the pathologies to which he may be more subject.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
The Maine Coon, among the common diseases, unfortunately has this one. It is a pathology which, as can be easily understood, it hits the heart of our four-legged friend. As a rule, the first symptoms appear between four and seven years of life. Its onset depends on one or more genetic mutations.
It is nothing but a thickening of the ventricular wall cat heart. However, this is not the only cause of this situation. It is therefore essential that the specialist exclude other conditions that are easily confused. Among these:
Coming to a diagnosis is particularly difficult, because it is often just one symptom-free disease. Among the solutions to identify it promptly is to do an ultrasound on the cat. In this way it is possible to understand the state of the heart muscle and if there is a need for an intervention or if everything is normal. To solve the problem, the vet will have to intervene on the primary causes.
Obesity In The Maine Coon
Obesity in cats is a condition that can lead to strain many organs vital. In short, it is certainly not a situation to be underestimated. It is essential that, regardless of whether you opt for a natural diet for your cat or not, Miao follows a healthy, balanced diet suitable for his age, state of health and lifestyle. It is also important that you do proper physical activity. It not only serves to channel energies correctly and to safeguard a good state of mental health, but it also serves to keep weight under control.
Hip Dysplasia
Although it is more common among dogs, Maine Coons – among the common diseases – can also suffer from this disorder. It is due to one abnormal position of the femoral head inside the hip joint. If neglected, it can lead to thinning of the cartilage and very intense pain caused by direct contact between bones. Among the most common symptoms are:
- persistent pains;
- Reduced mobility;
- Abnormal gait;
- Lameness.
Depending on the degree of dysplasia, it will be the orthopedic veterinarian to indicate the best way to alleviate the suffering of Kitty. In severe cases, surgery is recommended.
Maine Coon, Other Diseases
The Maine Coon, among its common diseases, unfortunately has to deal with the polycystic kidney. Also in this case it depends on genetics and it is a condition that can affect only one of the two organs or both. Signs that should be reported to your vet immediately include:
It is a disease that unfortunately, to date, it has no definitive cure. The specialist, and we who take care of Kitty every day, can do nothing but proceed with therapies that help keep the situation under control.
Many People Have Also Asked Us
Anyone who adopts with a sense of responsibility wants to see the Maine Coon away from its most common diseases and in an excellent condition psychophysical health. Here then are the doubts and questions most frequently asked by others.
How To Best Take Care Of The Maine Coon?
The Maine Coon may have iron health, but they also need above-average attention. In addition to routine veterinary visitswhich serve to keep an eye on physical well-being, we must also take care of psychological balance.
Everything is fine practical care – from feeding to safe out-of-town trips (if the character allows it) and sharing part of the bed – can translate into an emotional cuddle. If Miao sees that we care about him, she undoubtedly understands that he is loved.
When To Go To The Vet?
To the first physical or behavioral signal more or less clear, it is good to contact the specialist by telephone and explain our concerns. A medical history as detailed as possible can help the doctor get a complete overview.
He will be the one to tell us if it is appropriate to pay a visit and to advise us on the next steps, based on the outcomes. The advice is always not to resort to do-it-yourself or hearsay, but to make use of an authoritative opinion.
