Training Your Maine Coon

Why Maine Coons Are Highly Trainable

Maine Coons are among the most intelligent and trainable cat breeds. Their dog-like loyalty, strong desire to please, and problem-solving abilities make them excellent candidates for training. Unlike the stereotype of aloof, untrainable cats, Maine Coons actively enjoy learning and engaging with their humans. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can teach your Maine Coon impressive skills while strengthening your bond.

The Foundation: Positive Reinforcement

Successful Maine Coon training relies entirely on positive reinforcement—rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing unwanted ones. Cats don't respond well to punishment and may become fearful or aggressive. Instead, immediately reward correct behaviors with treats, praise, or play. This creates positive associations and encourages repetition.

Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and end on a positive note. Maine Coons are intelligent but can lose interest if sessions drag on. Multiple short sessions throughout the day are more effective than one long session.

Basic Commands to Start With

Come When Called

Start by saying your Maine Coon's name followed by "come" in a happy, upbeat tone. Reward immediately when they approach. Practice during meal times when they're already motivated to come to you. Gradually increase distance and add distractions. This command can be life-saving if your cat ever escapes outdoors.

Sit

Hold a treat above your cat's head, moving it slightly back. As they look up, their rear naturally lowers into a sitting position. Say "sit" as they do so and immediately reward. With repetition, they'll associate the word with the action. Some Maine Coons learn to sit on command within just a few training sessions.

High Five or Shake Paws

Hold a treat in your closed fist. Most cats will paw at your hand to get it. As their paw touches your hand, say "high five" or "shake" and reward. This trick impresses visitors and provides mental stimulation for your Maine Coon.

Leash Training Your Maine Coon

Many Maine Coons enjoy leash walking, which provides safe outdoor exploration and excellent enrichment. Start by getting your cat comfortable with a harness (never use a collar for leash walking):

• Let them investigate the harness first, rewarding interest
• Put it on briefly, immediately rewarding and removing it
• Gradually increase wearing time while playing or eating
• Add the leash once harness is accepted, letting them drag it supervised
• Practice indoors following them before gently guiding
• Only go outdoors once they're comfortable with all steps

Remember that cat walking differs from dog walking. Let your Maine Coon explore at their pace rather than expecting them to heel beside you. Start in quiet areas and avoid forcing them into scary situations.

Litter Box Training

Most Maine Coon kittens arrive already litter trained, but occasional issues can arise. Ensure you have one litter box per cat plus one extra, cleaned daily. Place boxes in quiet, easily accessible locations. If accidents occur, clean thoroughly with enzymatic cleaners to eliminate odors. Never punish accidents—instead, identify and address the underlying cause (stress, medical issues, box cleanliness).

Discouraging Unwanted Behaviors

Scratching Furniture

Provide multiple scratching posts of different types (vertical, horizontal, angled) near targeted furniture. When you catch them scratching inappropriately, calmly redirect to the post and reward its use. Never yell or punish—this creates negative associations. Trim nails regularly and consider soft nail caps if needed.

Counter Surfing

Maine Coons are large cats who can easily reach counters. Prevention is key—never leave food unattended. Make counters unappealing by removing food rewards. Provide alternative high perches (cat trees) for satisfying their climbing instincts. Double-sided tape on counter edges can deter jumping up.

Excessive Meowing

Maine Coons are naturally vocal, but excessive meowing may signal needs. First rule out medical issues or unmet needs (hunger, dirty litter, loneliness). If it's attention-seeking, avoid rewarding meowing with attention. Instead, reward quiet behavior and provide scheduled interactive play sessions.

Socialization Training

Early socialization creates confident, well-adjusted adult Maine Coons. Expose kittens to various people, gentle handling, household sounds, other pets, and experiences. Make each exposure positive with treats and play. Adult cats can still benefit from gradual socialization using the same positive methods. Never force frightened cats into situations—let them approach at their own pace.

Clicker Training Advantages

Clicker training uses a small device that makes a distinct "click" sound to mark exact moments of desired behavior, followed immediately by a treat. The click becomes a powerful communication tool, telling your Maine Coon exactly what earned the reward. This precision accelerates learning for complex behaviors. Start by "charging" the clicker—click and treat repeatedly until your cat eagerly anticipates treats after hearing the click.

Advanced Training Ideas

Once your Maine Coon masters basics, try advanced tricks:

• Fetch—many Maine Coons naturally retrieve
• Jump through hoops
• Ring a bell to ask for things
• Target training (touching nose to your finger or a stick)
• Agility courses with jumps and tunnels
• Toilet training (though not recommended by all veterinarians)

Patience and Consistency

Remember that training takes time. Each Maine Coon learns at their own pace. Stay patient, keep sessions fun, and never get frustrated. Consistency is crucial—everyone in your household should use the same commands and rewards. Celebrate small progress and enjoy the bonding experience. Training your Maine Coon provides mental stimulation, prevents boredom-related behavior problems, and strengthens your relationship.