Maine Coon Health Testing Explained

Health testing is the cornerstone of responsible Maine Coon breeding, yet many first-time buyers don't fully understand what tests exist or why they matter. This guide breaks down the essential screenings every Maine Coon breeder should be performing and explains how to evaluate the results you're shown.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart disease in cats and is particularly prevalent in Maine Coons. HCM causes the heart muscle to thicken, which can lead to heart failure or sudden death. The gold standard for HCM screening is an echocardiogram performed by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist. DNA testing for the MyBPC3 gene mutation can identify one known genetic risk factor, but a negative DNA result does not mean a cat is free from HCM — echo screening is still essential. Reputable breeders have their breeding cats scanned annually.

Hip dysplasia is another condition that affects Maine Coons more than many other cat breeds, likely due to their large size. The condition occurs when the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain. Screening is done through hip radiographs (X-rays), which are submitted to organizations like OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) for evaluation. Cats are rated on a scale from normal to severe dysplasia. Only cats with normal or mild ratings should be used in breeding programs.

DNA panels test for several genetic conditions simultaneously. For Maine Coons, the most important markers include SMA (spinal muscular atrophy), PKD (polycystic kidney disease), and the MyBPC3 mutation mentioned above. These are simple cheek-swab tests processed by laboratories like Optimal Selection or Langford Diagnostics. A responsible breeder will have results for both parents on file and be able to explain the implications of each result clearly.