Maine Coon Kitten FAQ — Six Springs Timbercoons

Question 1

How does the adoption process work?

Accepted Answer

We try to keep the process clear, helpful, and simple. Bringing a new kitten into your home is a big decision, and we want to make sure it's the right fit for both you and the kitten. Here's how the process typically works:

• Applications open first. Families interested in a kitten begin by completing our application. This helps us learn about your home, lifestyle, and what you're hoping for in a kitten.

• Kittens are introduced around 1–2 weeks old. Once kittens arrive, we usually share early sneak peeks so families can follow along as they grow.

• Reservations typically begin around 4–6 weeks. By this point, kittens are developing personalities and we have a better idea of their temperament and structure. This also gives families time to watch them grow through photos and updates.

• We connect before any reservations are finalized. Before placing a kitten on hold, we like to have a conversation — sometimes a phone call or video chat — so we can answer questions and make sure the match feels right.

• A reservation deposit secures your kitten. Once a decision is made, a contract is sent and a reservation deposit is required to hold your kitten until they are ready to go home.

• Kittens go home around 12–14 weeks of age. This allows them time to properly socialize with their littermates, receive early veterinary care, and develop the confidence they need for a smooth transition into their new homes.

Question 2

Is the deposit refundable?

Accepted Answer

The $500 reservation deposit is non-refundable. It is applied in full toward the purchase price of your kitten. If we are unable to match you with a kitten within 18 months of your deposit, we will refund it in full.

Question 3

What is the purchase price of a Six Springs kitten?

Accepted Answer

Our kittens are priced between $3,200 and $3,800 depending on coat pattern, color, polydactylism, and conformation. Breeding rights are an additional charge of $1,500. The deposit is applied toward this price. All kittens include TICA registration, a one-year health guarantee, age-appropriate vaccinations, microchip, and a signed veterinarian health certificate.

Question 4

Do you ship kittens?

Accepted Answer

We strongly prefer in-person pickup at our Ohio home — it gives us a chance to meet you, show you how we raise our kittens, and send them home with a proper handoff. For families outside driving distance, we can help you arrange nanny transport (a trusted human courier on a commercial flight). The cost is absorbed by the purchaser and must be paid with proof of confirmed transport, itinerary, and flight nanny confirmation. We do not ship kittens as cargo. Once all arrangements are made and verified the kitten will be released.

Question 5

Can I visit the cattery before committing?

Accepted Answer

No, we are a closed cattery to protect our kittens. This is the safest practice to keep the kittens and queens healthy. We want to prevent outside visits as much as possible to prevent the kittens from getting sick.

Question 6

At what age do kittens go to their new homes?

Accepted Answer

Our kittens go home between 12 and 14 weeks of age. Maine Coons benefit enormously from the full socialization period with their mother and littermates. Kittens placed earlier are more likely to develop anxiety and behavioral issues. Go home date is based on each kitten's progress.

Question 7

What is included when I take my kitten home?

Accepted Answer

Every Six Springs kitten comes home with:

• TICA or CFA registration papers (full registration after proof of spay/neuter)
• A one-year written health guarantee
• A signed veterinarian health certificate
• Age-appropriate vaccinations (FVRCP series)
• Microchip
• A small bag of their current food
• A blanket that smells like their mother and littermates
• Our care guide

Question 8

Are your kittens litter-trained?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our kittens are litter-trained by their mother from around three to four weeks of age. By the time they go home, they are fully reliable. We use unscented, low-dust clumping litter or pine pellets. We recommend you start with the same type to avoid any confusion during the transition.

Question 9

Are your kittens socialized with children and dogs?

Accepted Answer

Our kittens are raised in our home with regular exposure to our grandchildren, family visitors, household sounds, and our dogs. We handle them daily from birth and introduce them to grooming, nail trims, and car rides before they leave. They are not timid cats — they are confident, curious, and ready for a full family life.

Question 10

Do you offer pet-only (altered) kittens?

Accepted Answer

All of our kittens are sold on a spay/neuter contract unless you are an approved TICA breeder purchasing with breeding rights. Pet kittens are sold with limited TICA registration. We require proof of spay/neuter by 12 months of age.

Question 11

What health testing do your breeding cats undergo?

Accepted Answer

Every breeding cat at Six Springs is tested for HCM (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). All cats are also DNA-tested clear for SMA (spinal muscular atrophy) and PKD (polycystic kidney disease), and tested negative for FIV and FeLV before entering our programme.

Question 12

What does your health guarantee cover?

Accepted Answer

Our written one-year health guarantee includes:

• Covers genetic conditions including HCM, hip screening, SMA, and PKD
• If your kitten is diagnosed with a covered condition within one year of purchase, we will offer a replacement kitten or a partial refund — your choice
• Veterinary documentation of the diagnosis is required
• The kitten must have received appropriate veterinary care to be eligible

Question 13

What vaccinations will my kitten have received?

Accepted Answer

Your kitten will have received the first two rounds of the FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia) vaccine series before going home. Your veterinarian will complete the series and advise on rabies vaccination timing.

Question 14

Do Maine Coons have a lot of health problems?

Accepted Answer

Maine Coons are generally a robust, healthy breed — they are one of the oldest natural breeds in North America and were not created through extreme selective breeding. The primary genetic concern is HCM, which is why we test annually. With responsible breeding and proper veterinary care, Maine Coons routinely live 12 to 15 years.

Question 15

How big do Maine Coons get?

Accepted Answer

Maine Coons are the largest domestic cat breed. Males typically reach 15 to 25 pounds; females 10 to 15 pounds. They are slow to mature — most do not reach full size until three to five years of age. Do not be surprised if your kitten is still visibly growing at age two.

Question 16

Are Maine Coons good with children and other pets?

Accepted Answer

Maine Coons are famously sociable and adaptable. They are patient with children, generally get along well with dogs, and can coexist with other cats when introduced properly. They are not a breed that hides under the bed — they want to be part of the action. That said, every cat is an individual, and a proper introduction period is always recommended.

Question 17

How much grooming do Maine Coons require?

Accepted Answer

Maine Coons have a semi-longhaired coat with a silky texture that is less prone to matting than many longhaired breeds. A thorough brush two to three times per week is sufficient for most cats. During seasonal shedding (spring and autumn), daily brushing helps manage loose coat. We start grooming our kittens early so they arrive accustomed to the process.

Question 18

Are Maine Coons vocal?

Accepted Answer

Maine Coons are known for their distinctive chirping and trilling vocalisations — they communicate in a range of sounds that is quite different from a typical meow. They are not loud or demanding cats, but they will absolutely tell you about their day. Marley, in particular, has opinions about everything.

Question 19

Do Maine Coons like water?

Accepted Answer

Many do, yes — it is one of the breed's well-known quirks. Maine Coons are often fascinated by running water and may attempt to join you in the shower or investigate a full sink. We recommend a pet water fountain, which most Maine Coons prefer to a still bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

Reservations

Kittens

Health

The Breed

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