Cat Dangers

Maine Coon Safety Guide: Common Dangers & First Aid for Cats

Maine Coons are known for their playful curiosity and boundless energy—traits that make them wonderful companions, but also prone to getting into trouble. Like Savannah cats and other active breeds, Maine Coons are especially likely to explore areas they shouldn’t. Below is a list of common household and outdoor hazards that can put any cat at risk, along with tips on being prepared in an emergency.

Outdoor Dangers for Maine Coon Cats

Even if your Maine Coon is leash-trained or enjoys supervised outdoor time, it’s important to be aware of the many threats just beyond your door:

  • Dogs or aggressive animals

  • Theft – Purebred cats like Maine Coons are sadly a target

  • Poisonous animals – Including certain spiders and snakes

  • Getting lost while roaming

  • Car accidents

  • Choking hazards from non-breakaway collars

  • Cruel or abusive individuals

  • Predatory wildlife

  • Other cats – Risk of fights and disease transmission

  • Fleas, ticks, and internal parasites

  • Harsh weather conditions

  • Toxic substances:

    • Antifreeze (ethylene glycol)

    • Cocoa mulch

    • Lawn chemicals and pesticides

    • Ice melt salts

    • Garbage and open cans

    • Rodenticides and garden poisons

    • Animal traps

Indoor Hazards for Cats

Your Maine Coon’s large size and clever paws make it easier for them to access things you thought were safely out of reach. Here are indoor dangers to be mindful of:

  • Toxic foods: chocolate, grapes, raisins, garlic, onions, salt, coffee, alcohol

  • Dangerous plants: lilies, ivy, cacti

  • Plastic items: twist ties, ponytail holders, milk jug rings, plastic fasteners

  • String-like objects: thread, dental floss, yarn (NEVER pull out if ingested—seek vet care)

  • Household items: rubber bands, thumb tacks, paper clips, saran wrap, aluminum foil

  • Essential oils and air fresheners

  • Cooked bones (splinter hazard)

  • Appliances: recliners, dryers, stoves, refrigerators (always check before closing!)

  • Electrical cords, mini blind strings, and open toilets

  • Toys and small objects: balloons, children’s toys, cheaply made cat toys

  • Fumes: non-stick pans and self-cleaning ovens

  • Pet medications or human drugs

  • Holiday decor and lights

  • Wood shavings like cedar (can be toxic)

  • Loose sewing supplies: needles, buttons, pins

  • Leftover bones and trash

Remember, Maine Coons are like toddler-sized troublemakers with strong paws and high intelligence—they can open doors, drawers, and even climb into washing machines or crawl behind stoves. Always “cat-proof” your home accordingly.

Emergency Response: Signs of Poisoning

If your Maine Coon shows signs such as:

  • Lethargy

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Muscle tremors

  • Fever

  • Loss of coordination

  • Abdominal pain

…Contact your vet or emergency vet hospital immediately.

ASPCA Poison Control Center is available 24/7 at 888-426-4435 (note: $65 consultation fee applies). Be ready to share:

  • What substance your cat was exposed to

  • How much and how long ago

  • Cat’s breed (Maine Coon), age, weight, and sex

  • Symptoms observed

  • Your contact and payment information

Maine Coon First Aid Kit Essentials

Every Maine Coon owner should keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand—and travel with it too. You can start with a human first aid kit and customize it with pet-specific items.

Basic Supplies:

  • Gauze pads and rolls

  • Adhesive and self-cling bandages

  • Antiseptic wipes or spray

  • Blanket (foil emergency style)

  • Cotton swabs and balls

  • Tweezers and blunt-end scissors

  • Saline solution

  • Gloves (non-latex)

  • Hydrogen peroxide (only if directed by a vet)

  • Thermometer with petroleum jelly (cat’s temp should stay between 100–103°F)

  • Ice pack

  • Muzzle or soft cloth strip (don’t use if choking or breathing issues)

  • Carrier and pillowcase for safe containment

Additional Items:

  • Pet first-aid guidebook – review it ahead of time

  • Important phone numbers: your vet, nearest emergency clinic, poison control

  • Medical records and proof of vaccinations

  • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) – only if vet-approved, with dosage instructions

  • Styptic powder or pencil for stopping minor bleeding

  • Ear cleaner and antibiotic ointment

  • Flashlight or penlight

  • Eyedropper or syringe for fluids

  • Splints, tongue depressors, and tweezers

  • Corn syrup or glucose paste (for diabetic or hypoglycemic cats)

  • Temporary ID tag for travel

  • Nail clippers and rubbing alcohol

Keeping your Maine Coon safe means staying informed and being prepared. With their size, strength, and smarts, Maine Coons are capable of more than your average cat—so never underestimate what they might get into. A little prevention and a well-stocked emergency kit can make all the difference.

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