Why Vertical Space is Essential for Your Maine Coon Cat
By Gary Fulgham | 11/29*/2023
Maine Coon cats are known for their majestic size, intelligence, and playful personalities—but one often-overlooked need of these gentle giants is vertical space. While Maine Coons are not quite as spring-loaded as some other breeds, they still love to perch, observe, and climb. In the wild, feline ancestors instinctively sought high places for safety and surveillance, and Maine Coons retain much of that behavior. Without proper vertical territory, your Maine Coon may claim your windowsills, kitchen counters, or bookshelves instead.
Fortunately, providing vertical enrichment for your Maine Coon doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. Whether you live in a house or an apartment, there are creative ways to give your cat the vertical access they crave. Let’s explore some popular options:
🐾 Cat Trees for Maine Coon Cats
Cat trees are one of the most effective ways to create vertical territory for Maine Coons. But not all cat trees are suitable for large breeds. Look for:
-
Height: Maine Coons love to survey their domain. Choose a cat tree at least 60 inches tall if space allows—especially if it can be placed near a window.
-
Sturdiness: Maine Coons are heavy cats. Make sure the tree is reinforced or built specifically for large cats so it doesn’t wobble.
-
Multiple levels: A multi-tiered cat tree gives your cat room to climb, stretch, and nap. If you have more than one cat, choose a tree with more levels than cats to prevent competition.
-
Materials: Sisal-wrapped posts and carpeted platforms are ideal. These surfaces are durable and offer your Maine Coon places to scratch, which helps maintain claw health and protect your furniture.
🐾 Wall-Mounted Cat Shelves
Wall shelves for cats are a modern, space-saving alternative to traditional cat trees—perfect for apartments or smaller rooms. These shelves allow your Maine Coon to explore vertically without sacrificing floor space.
-
Strategic placement: Arrange shelves in stair-step patterns to make them easy for your Maine Coon to climb.
-
Weight capacity: Make sure any wall-mounted system is rated for heavier cats—Maine Coons can weigh 15–20+ pounds!
-
Style: Minimalist designs blend well with modern home décor, and they can double as conversation pieces.
🐾 Over-the-Door Cat Trees
Door-mounted cat trees are another excellent space-saving option. They hang from sturdy interior doors and typically feature multiple platforms.
-
Stability matters: Choose a model that anchors securely to reduce sway.
-
Choose the right door: Avoid high-traffic doors that open and close frequently—sudden movement can discourage use.
🐾 Repurposed Shelves and Furniture
You don’t have to buy specialized furniture to create climbing opportunities. Here are some DIY ideas:
-
Clear bookshelf space: Leave some upper shelves open so your Maine Coon can jump up and perch. Consider cutting openings between tiers to make access easier.
-
Add a step-up shelf: Install a small shelf next to taller furniture (like an armoire, curio cabinet, or kitchen cabinet) so your cat can climb to the top safely.
-
Floating shelves: These can serve as elegant step ladders for your cat while blending seamlessly into your living space.
🐾 Why Vertical Space Benefits Your Maine Coon
Vertical enrichment isn’t just fun—it’s important for your Maine Coon’s mental stimulation, confidence, exercise, and territorial comfort. A bored or anxious cat may develop behavioral issues, including aggression or destructive scratching. Providing vertical access satisfies their natural instincts and keeps them healthier and happier indoors.
In Summary:
If you want a well-adjusted, content Maine Coon cat, make vertical space a priority in your home. From rugged cat trees to stylish wall-mounted perches, giving your Maine Coon room to climb and perch will enrich their life—and yours.