Let’s talk real for a second, you’re probably here because you’ve seen those big, fluffy Maine Coon cats lounging in someone’s arms on TikTok or Instagram and thought to yourself, “Wow, I want a cat like that. But do they really enjoy being held?”
Well, you’re not alone in wondering that. I had the same question before I got my first Maine Coon, Mr. Stings. And after years of living with Stings, Ruby, and Niki my three Maine Coon companions I’ve got a few stories and lessons to share that might help clear things up.
The Short Answer? It Depends on the Cat
Maine Coons are famously friendly, social, and tolerant. But when it comes to being held, not all Maine Coons are created equal. Some absolutely love it. Others? Not so much, and that’s okay.
Let me break it down for you through my own experience and what I’ve learned from fellow Maine Coon lovers.
Mr. Stings – The “Lap But Not Lift” Guy
Let’s start with Stings. He’s been with me the longest, and honestly, he’s the chillest cat I’ve ever had. He loves lying on my lap, bumping his head into mine, and following me from room to room like a shadow. But pick him up and cradle him like a baby? Nah. He’ll tolerate it for a minute or two, then squirm his way out like a slippery fish.
He doesn’t hate being held, but he clearly prefers affection on his own terms, head bobs, slow blinks, and sitting beside me on the couch. That’s his love language.
Ruby – The Cuddly Queen
Now Ruby? Total opposite. She loves being held. I’m talking full-on, purr-machine, limp body, snuggle up and melt in your arms type of cat. If Ruby had her way, she’d be carried around the house like royalty all day long.
She’s also the most emotionally intelligent of the bunch, she knows when I’m sad or tired, and she’ll crawl into my arms like, “Hey, I got you.” Holding Ruby feels like therapy with fur.
Niki – The Free Spirit
Then there’s Niki. She’s more independent than the other two and kind of moody when it comes to being picked up. She’ll let you do it, but you’ve got about 15 seconds before she lets out a soft meow that says, “Okay, we’re done here.”
But here’s the thing, Niki will still crawl up next to me in bed, or sit on the table and stare at me until I give her a scratch behind the ears. She loves closeness, just not the cradling part.
So, again, it all depends on the cat.
Why Some Maine Coons Like Being Held (And Some Don’t)
1. It’s in the Personality
Just like people, every Maine Coon has their own vibe. Some are more physically affectionate and love full-body contact. Others prefer personal space. You’ve got to learn to read your cat’s cues, they’ll tell you what they’re comfortable with.
2. How They Were Raised
Cats that were held and cuddled from a young age are more likely to enjoy being held as adults. Ruby came from a foster home where she was regularly handled and socialized. No wonder she’s such a cuddlebug.
On the other hand, cats that weren’t picked up much as kittens, or worse, were handled roughly, might be more hesitant. That doesn’t mean they can’t warm up to it over time, but you’ll need patience.
3. Their Size Matters
Let’s not forget, Maine Coons grow quite large, we are talking 15 to 25 pounds of fluffy, muscular feline. Holding them isn’t like picking up a typical house cat. You’ve got to support their body properly and make them feel secure, or else they’ll just feel awkward and uncomfortable.
4. Trust is Everything
Once your Maine Coon trusts you, they’ll let you do a lot more. That includes holding them, but only if they feel safe. So take your time. Build the bond. Respect their boundaries.
How to Tell If Your Maine Coon Likes Being Held
Here’s a little checklist I use with my cats (and when I help friends with theirs):
They purr when you pick them up
They relax in your arms, not tense up
They stay longer than a few seconds
They lean into your chest or shoulder
They nuzzle or close their eyes peacefully
If you’re seeing most of those signs, congrats, your Maine Coon probably enjoys being held.
Now, if they immediately jump down, twitch their tail, or meow in protest, it’s a no-go. And you’ve got to respect that.
Tips for Holding a Maine Coon Properly
Support their back legs and body: Never dangle them or hold them just under their front legs. It’s uncomfortable.
Use a gentle but secure grip: Cradle them like you would a small child. They need to feel safe and balanced.
Start with short sessions: If your Maine Coon is unsure, just hold them for 10–20 seconds at first, then build up from there.
Reward them: After holding, give a treat or affection to help them associate being held with good things.
Final Thoughts
So, do Maine Coon cats like to be held? The answer is: some do, and some don’t, and that’s completely normal.
From my own experience with Stings, Ruby, and Niki, I’ve learned that Maine Coons are incredibly affectionate, loyal, and expressive. But like any cat, they each have their preferences when it comes to touch and closeness.
If you’re dreaming of carrying around a giant fluffball like a baby, make sure to get to know your cat first. Respect their comfort zone. Build trust. And who knows? With time, you might find yourself with a Ruby of your own — cuddled up in your arms, purring like a tiny lion.
