Can a Maine Coon Have Short Hair? Debunking the Myth#

I see the listing all the time online: “Rare Short Hair Maine Coon Kittens - $1,000.” And it makes my blood boil.

Let me be crystal clear: There is no such thing as a purebred Short Hair Maine Coon. The Maine Coon is, by definition, a semi-longhair breed. The gene that makes them Maine Coons is inextricably linked to their coat. If a breeder is trying to sell you a “Short Hair” variant, they are selling you a domestic shorthair (a regular cat) with a fancy label.

However, “Short Hair Maine Coon Mixes” do exist and are wonderful pets. Here is how to tell the difference between a scam and a mix.

The Genetics: Why Long Hair is Mandatory#

The longhair gene in cats is recessive.

To be a Maine Coon: A kitten must inherit two copies of the longhair gene (one from mom, one from dad).
The Result: Two purebred Maine Coons cannot produce a shorthair kitten. It is genetically impossible.

So, What is a “Short Hair Maine Coon”?#

If you see a cat that looks like a Maine Coon (big paws, square jaw, ear tufts) but has short hair, it is one of two things:

A Mix: One parent was a Maine Coon, and the other was a Domestic Shorthair. Because the shorthair gene is dominant, the kittens will likely have short hair but keep the big Maine Coon body.
A Scam: A backyard breeder putting a label on a regular kitten to charge you triple the price.

Comparison of a fluffy purebred Maine Coon versus a short hair mix — If it has short hair, it is likely a mix. Purebred Maine Coons genetically must have long fur.

Should You Adopt One?#

Absolutely! I have met many “Short Hair Mixes” that have the amazing Maine Coon personality—they play fetch, trill, and follow you around—but they are much easier to groom because they don’t mat.

The Price: You should pay “Rescue” prices ($100-$300) for a mix, never “Breeder” prices ($1,500+).

Conclusion#

If you want the personality of a giant without the hassle of grooming a double coat, a Short Hair Mix is a fantastic choice. Just don’t let anyone tell you it’s a “Rare Purebred.”

Resources & Further Reading#

UC Davis Veterinary Genetics: Feline Coat Length Genetics.
TICA: Maine Coon Breed Standard (Coat Requirements).