What Are Smoke Maine Coon Kittens?
Smoke Maine Coon kittens have taken over the Maine Coon want list like the word showgirl has taken over the music industry. And for better or fad…they are here to stay. Smoke Maine coon kittens come in a variety of smoky shades, and all of them are pretty.
If you’re reading this, you’re likely intrigued by the idea of adding a smoke Maine Coon kitten to your home. I want to walk you through what “smoke” means in the context of Maine Coons, why this variation is so appealing, how to evaluate a legitimate smoke kitten, and importantly how to buy one responsibly so that you end up with a healthy, well-adjusted cat—not just a pretty coat.
If you are looking for a Smoke Maine Coon kitten now check out our Maine Coon Kitten Page here.
Understanding the Term “Smoke” in Cats
In Maine Coons, as with other long-haired pedigreed cats, coat colour and pattern terminology can get tricky. The term “smoke” refers to a solid colour cat (i.e., no tabby markings) in which each hair has a light or silvery base and a darker tip. The visual effect is often described as dark fur over a silver shimmer—when the cat moves or the light catches it, you see that contrast. Maine Coon Cat Nation+2attykats.com+2
Here are some key points about smoke colour:
- A smoke cat is solid coloured (i.e., no visible tabby stripes or classic patterns) but the hairs are banded: lighter at the root, darker at the tip. attykats.com+1
- The “inhibitor gene” (sometimes called the silver gene) plays a major role: it suppresses pigment in the lower part of the hair shaft, creating the light base effect. Maine Coon Cat Nation+1
- In Maine Coons you’ll find smoke in a variety of top‐coat colours (black smoke, blue smoke, red smoke, etc) though some colour/pattern combinations are much rarer than others. Sassy Koonz Maine Coon Cattery
- Because the under‐coat is lighter, smoke kittens may look similar to solid kittens at a very early age—only later does the smoke effect become fully evident. Maine Coon Cat Nation+1
So when you hear “smoke Maine Coon kitten,” you are looking at a kitten that is expected to carry the smoke effect: each hair having a lighter base, tipped with the darker colour, creating that “smoky” depth.
Related Maine Coon Colors Reading
- Orange Maine Coon Price Guide
- Maine Coon Popular Colors
- Black Maine Coon Cats
- How Much is a Maine Coon Kitten in 2025
Why the Smoke Variation is So Appealing
There are many reasons why a smoke Maine Coon appeals to cat lovers. Here are some of them:
- Unique visual depth
A smoke coat has more visual complexity than a simple solid colour. The shimmer of the undercoat, the contrast of the darker tips, the way the light plays across the fur—these all contribute to an almost shimmering or ethereal look. One article describes it: “When the cat is at rest it may appear solid black … but as soon as it moves a silvery-white base is revealed …” Maine Coon Cat Nation - Rarity and distinction
Among the many colour and pattern possibilities in Maine Coons, smoke colours are less common. That means when a smoke kitten is available from a quality breeder, they can attract attention. One breeder forum comment noted that “Smokes are very popular … many breeders produce exclusively smoke/high silver kittens.” Reddit - Classic Maine Coon traits preserved
Importantly for buyers, the appeal of a smoke kitten should not overshadow the breed’s key attributes—size, friendly temperament, robust health, large tufted ears, full tail, etc. The colour is a bonus; the underlying breed traits are what matter for a great family cat. - Photogenic and show potential
Because the smoke effect catches light and shows depth, these cats photograph beautifully. For people who want a pet that also turns heads, a smoke coat adds aesthetic value.
What to Look for When Evaluating a Smoke Maine Coon Kitten
When you are considering buying a smoke Maine Coon kitten, you’ll want to evaluate not just the coat colour but the overall health, breeding integrity, and suitability for your home. Here’s a checklist for you:
A. Confirming the Smoke Trait
- Ask the breeder for clear photos/videos where you can see the root of the hairs (blow the fur aside gently). Does the base appear light or silvery with darker tips? The smoke effect is in the hair shaft, not just the surface. Sassy Koonz Maine Coon Cattery+1
- Ask how the breeding pairs were selected. Was one parent known to carry the inhibitor/silver gene, or were they both smoke? Some breeders refer to “high smoke” (very little colour at the base) versus “normal smoke.” attykats.com
- Be cautious if the breeder uses “smoke” loosely without showing the root effect—especially in kittens under 12 weeks where the effect may not be obvious yet. One forum commenter warned: > “Smoke cannot be determined for a few weeks because the coat has to grow out enough to show the lighter roots.” Reddit
B. Breed Integrity & Health
- Ensure the breeder is registering kittens with a recognised registry (for example The International Cat Association [TICA], Cat Fanciers’ Association [CFA], or other national association). This helps maintain breed standards.
- Ask for health testing: Maine Coons are predisposed to conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hip dysplasia. A responsible breeder will test for such issues and show results.
- Check lineage: Does the breeder provide pedigrees? Are there champion lines? Are colours/patterns legitimate?
- Examine the kitten’s condition: bright eyes, clean ears, good body condition, well socialised. A smoke coat is no substitute for a healthy kitten.
C. Temperament and Socialisation
- Maine Coons are often described as “gentle giants.” You want a kitten that is curious, friendly, willing to engage—not fearful or overly shy.
- Ask how the kitten has been raised: indoors, socialised with people, other pets? That will impact how it adapts to your home.
- For your home in Pennsylvania (or US in general) think about the kitten’s integration: space, activity level, other pets. Maine Coons like to climb, explore, be part of the family.
D. Colour vs. Suitability
- Don’t let the smoke colour blind you to other key factors. A kitten may be spectacular in appearance—but if the health, pedigree or temperament is questionable, that is a risk.
- Some breeders may emphasise colour while neglecting health or proper breeding practices. Be aware and ask good questions.
How to Buy a Smoke Maine Coon Kitten — Step by Step
Here is a process you can follow to buy a smoke Maine Coon kitten, broken down into clear stages for you as a discerning buyer in the United States.
1: Research and Shortlist Reputable Breeders
- Create a list of breeders who specialise in Maine Coons and specifically have smoke colour lines.
- Check breeder reputation: online reviews, references from previous buyers, breeding history, registration with cat associations.
- Email or call the breeder and ask: Do you offer smoke coats? What colour variations does your line include? Are your kittens registered? What health screening do you do? Do you provide a contract/warranty?
- Visit if possible (or request live video) to see the cattery environment, meet the parent cats, assess cleanliness, socialisation. A good breeder will allow you to observe or ask questions freely.
See our Maine Coon Breeders and Prices by State here.
2: Understand Contract Terms and Pricing
- Get a written contract that clearly states: the kitten’s colour/pattern (smoke), registration details, deposit amount, what happens if the kitten develops health issues, return policy, spay/neuter requirements (if any), ownership paperwork.
- Understand the pricing. Because smoke is less common and desired, kittens may command higher fees. But high price does not automatically guarantee quality—evaluate across the full package (health, pedigree, temperament).
- Clarify what is included: veterinary exam, vaccinations, micro-chip, registration certificate, socialising, maybe a starter kit.
- Understand timelines: When will the kitten be ready to leave the breeder? Typically 12 weeks or more for Maine Coons due to slower development.
3: Evaluate the Kitten Before Taking Home
- Inspect the kitten: does the coat already show the smoke effect (or is there evidence that it will)? Are the roots lighter beneath the fur?
- Observe behaviour: Is the kitten confident, exploring, interacting with people? Avoid ones hiding or extremely frightened.
- Ask for health records: vaccination, deworming, vet check.
- Ask about the kitten’s socialisation: has it been exposed to people, other pets? Has the breeder done basic handling?
- Confirm registration paperwork: is the pedigree legitimate? Is the colour/pattern correctly described? Are parents documented?
- If you are buying remotely (shipping or long distance), ask for recent clear video of the kitten, the living environment, and ask for references from past buyers.
4: Bringing the Kitten Home & Early Integration
- Prepare your home: large parent Maine Coons grow big. Plan space, sturdy climbing surfaces, scratching posts, safe zones.
- Start slow: the kitten will need time to adjust. Give them their own retreat, use gentle introductions to other pets.
- Grooming: long coat means brushing several times per week, smoke or not. Maintain hygiene and inspect coat, ears, eyes.
- Monitor health: give vet check shortly after home arrival, establish routine care.
- Social bonding: Maine Coons are affectionate and like being part of the family. Spend time playing, interacting, talking.
- Maintain good diet and environment: Maine Coons are large and need proper nutrition—not calorie overload, but high quality.
Mistakes to Avoid & Red Flags
When buying a smoke Maine Coon kitten, here are things to watch out for:
- Overemphasis on colour alone: If a breeder’s main selling point is “rare smoke coat” but they cannot provide health records or registration, that’s risky.
- No view of roots or hair base: The true smoke effect involves the undercoat. If you cannot see that or the breeder refuses to show you, question it.
- Very young kittens shipped too early: Maine Coons mature slowly—letting a kitten go home too early may affect socialisation and health.
- Lack of contract or guarantee: A good breeder will provide a clear contract covering health, registration, returns.
- Poor living environment: If the breeder’s facility appears dirty, overcrowded, or the kittens are unsocialised, that is a big red flag.
- Unreasonable price or lack of transparency: Smoke kittens may cost more, but if price is extremely high without correspondingly strong breeder credentials, be cautious.
Is a Smoke Maine Coon the Right Fit for You?
You’ll want to ask yourself a few questions before taking the leap:
- Do you value both the colour and the breed’s temperament/health? If you only want “prettiness,” you might overlook important factors.
- Do you have space for a large cat? Maine Coons are big and active—they enjoy climbing, playing, being part of the home.
- Are you prepared for grooming and maintenance? Longhaired cats require regular brushing, coat maintenance, and monitoring.
- Are you ready for the financial commitment? The kitten cost is one part; lifetime care (food, vet, environment) is ongoing.
- Do you want a show‐quality kitten or a pet‐quality kitten? A smoke coat may have show appeal, but show lines may come with additional pressure on health testing, show commitments.
- Are you OK with genetic complexity and potential variability? Smoke kittens may take time for the effect to fully show; breeding for smoke involves genetic factors and no guarantee of every kitten being perfect.
If your answer is yes to these, then a smoke Maine Coon kitten is a beautiful choice. If you are unsure, consider whether a more common colour Maine Coon might fulfil your needs and allow you to focus more on temperament and health.
Quick Reference Summary for You
| Topic | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| What is “smoke” | Solid-colour cat with each hair having lighter base and darker tip due to inhibitor gene. |
| Why it matters | Rare and visually striking; adds depth to coat while preserving classic Maine Coon traits. |
| What to check | Hair root/undercoat, breeder health/registration, kitten socialisation, contract. |
| Buying steps | Research breeders → ask questions → view kitten → contract → bring home → integrate. |
| Red flags | Colour hype without health/registration proof, unsocialised kittens, no contract, shipping too soon. |
| Fit for you? | Must be prepared for large size, grooming needs, cost, and prioritise health/temperament over just colour. |
Final Thoughts — for You and Your Future Companion
Choosing a smoke Maine Coon kitten isn’t just about having a beautiful coat—it’s about welcoming into your home a cat that embodies the majestic size, gentle disposition, intelligence, and friendly nature that the breed is known for. When you add the smoke colour variation, you’re selecting something that stands out visually—but you still want the foundation to be strong: health, socialisation, and correct breeding practices.
Related Maine Coon Kitten Reading
- Maine Coon Price by Age
- How to Find a Maine Coon Breeder You Can Trust
- Why are Maine Coon Kittens so Expensive
- How Much is a Maine Coon Kitten in 2025
References & Further Reading
If you’d like to dive deeper into Maine Coon coat genetics, responsible breeding, and kitten selection, these trusted resources are worth exploring:
- Maine Coon Cat Nation – Black Smoke Maine Coon: A Stunning Variation
Detailed look at the smoke coat pattern, genetics, and how smoke kittens differ from solids and silvers. - Sassy Koonz Cattery – Maine Coon Colors and Patterns Explained
Excellent photo guide for identifying true smoke coats versus shaded or silver patterns. - AttyKats Maine Coons – Color and Pattern Descriptions
A breeder’s perspective on colour genetics and how the inhibitor gene works in smoke Maine Coons. - TICA – Maine Coon Breed Standard
The official International Cat Association standard for structure, temperament, and colour classes. - CFA – Maine Coon Breed Profile
Breed history, type, and accepted colours from the Cat Fanciers’ Association. - Robinson’s Genetics for Cat Breeders and Veterinarians (4th ed., 2007)
The foundational textbook on feline colour genetics and the role of the inhibitor gene in smoke coats. - Lyons et al. (2016), “Cat Color Genetics and the Inhibitor Locus,” Journal of Heredity
Peer-reviewed scientific insight into the silver/smoke gene mechanisms. - r/mainecoons Discussion – Are Light-Colored Black Smoked Maine Coons Rare?
Real-owner experiences identifying smoke kittens and understanding coat development. - Winn Feline Foundation (now EveryCat Health Foundation)
Health resources on heart and genetic screening for Maine Coons. - Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)
Recommendations for hip and cardiac health testing in the breed. - UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory
Trusted laboratory for colour, parentage, and HCM/PKD genetic testing. - TICA Responsible Breeder Checklist
Step-by-step outline of ethical breeding practices. - CFA – How to Buy a Purebred Kitten
Guidance for new owners on evaluating breeders and contracts. - Petfinder – Adopting vs. Buying Purebred Cats
Balanced perspective on adoption and responsible purchasing decisions.
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