Maine Coon Cat Rivalry in the Family

Maine Coon cats are known for their large size, friendly nature, and playful demeanor. However, what happens when two Maine Coon cats are brought into the same household? I will tell about the rivalry between Maine Coon cats in a family setting. 

Normally, Maine Coons are very friendly when living with all other species of pets. The kittens from my cattery coexist with literally every species of pet, even budgerigars. In my example, you can see what happens when Maine Coons want to achieve something.

I present to you the two of three Maine Coon females who live in my home. One (from behind) is Hestia. She is 10 years old, and she has been living with me since the age of 4 months. She has a calm and balanced character and usually doesn't question anything, even if she is capable of giving a slap if disturbed too much. 

The other is Mefiti. Mefiti is very young, she is only 6 years old, but she is much bigger: she weighs 8 kilos while Hestia weighs less than 6. She came to me when she was 8 months old. Mefiti is combative and normally defends what she wants. Mefiti is very much a creature of habit: she has favorite places near me. She feels safer and protected. Always staying in the same place makes her feel comfortable in her life. I am her power bank. 

I don't know why the other cats sometimes try to take her place. In this case, she doesn't fight but leaves.

In this case, Mefiti was lying next to me, but there was some space left. Hestia came and got in the middle of the free space. She wants to be close to me too. First Hestia looks at Mefiti and as you can see, Mefiti had a face and ears that are not happy. But she did not move. Hestia slipped in behind me without caring about Mefiti's emotions. Mefiti, disturbed, left. 

Look at this cunning face of Hestia!

Here are some tips for managing and minimizing any potential conflicts that may arise:

1. Provide separate resources: 

Ensure that each Maine Coon cat has their own food and water bowls, litter box, scratching posts, and sleeping areas. This will help prevent competition and territorial disputes over shared resources. 

2. Play and exercise: 

Engage both Maine Coon cats in interactive play sessions and provide opportunities for exercise to help release pent-up energy and reduce tension between them.

3. Supervise interactions: 

Monitor the interactions between the Maine Coon cats closely, especially during the initial introduction period. Step in if you notice any signs of aggression or tension and redirect their focus with toys or treats.

4. Create safe spaces: 

Set up hiding spots, elevated perches, and cozy retreats where each Maine Coon cat can escape if they need some alone time or want to avoid conflict with the other cat.

5. Positive reinforcement: 

Reward good behavior and interactions between the Maine Coon cats with treats, praise, and affection. Encourage peaceful coexistence by reinforcing positive interactions.

It all depends on the behavior of the owner. Be careful not to favor one of the animals, try to be equal with all. And scold them as you would scold your own children if necessary. Maine Cons are extremely intelligent and will understand everything you want from them (although perhaps as cats they won't show they do)

There is nothing good in the rivalry of the pets in the house. You can help manage and minimize potential conflicts between Maine Coon cats in your family, fostering a harmonious and peaceful coexistence between your feline companions.