White Maine Coon Cats: Color, Genetics, Blue Eyes, Personality, and Kittens
White Maine Coons are one of the most striking and sought after variations of the breed. Their bright white coats, large size, dramatic ear furnishings, and expressive eyes make them a favorite among families looking for a rare and photogenic kitten. Searches for white Maine Coon cats, white Maine Coon kittens, white Maine Coon with blue eyes, and white Maine Coon genetics continue to rise as more owners discover this beautiful color.
This guide explains everything you need to know about white Maine Coons, including coat genetics, eye color possibilities, personality traits, grooming needs, hearing considerations, and what to expect when bringing home a white Maine Coon kitten.
Quick Summary: White Maine Coon Cats
| Topic | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Color Genetics | Caused by the dominant white gene that masks all underlying colors. |
| Eye Colors | Blue, gold, copper, green, and odd eyes. Blue and odd eyed white Maine Coons are the rarest. |
| Personality | Gentle, playful, intelligent, loyal, and family friendly. Color does not affect temperament. |
| Grooming | Easy to maintain. Requires extra cleaning for tear stains and chin areas. |
| Hearing | Some blue eyed white cats may have hearing differences, but many hear normally. |
| Size and Build | Large, muscular structure typical of the breed. Adults reach full size at three to four years. |
| Rarity | Less common than tabbies and solids. Odd eyed and blue eyed whites are specialty types. |
| Kittens | Born all white with blue eyes. Eye color may change between six and twelve weeks. |
Searching for a Maine Coon Kitten for Sale?
If you are here to find your very own Maine Coon baby check out our Purebred Maine Coon Kittens for Sale.
At Almonte Cats, every kitten is:
- TICA / CFA registered from fully health-tested parents
- Raised in-home for confident, affectionate temperaments
- Vet-checked, vaccinated, and microchipped before going home
We advise our families to reserve early — our litters are produced in limited numbers each year to preserve quality and true Maine Coon type.
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What Makes a Maine Coon White
A white Maine Coon is not a separate breed. The white color is caused by a dominant genetic trait called the “dominant white gene.” This gene masks all other coat colors underneath. That means a white Maine Coon may genetically be a tabby, black, blue, red, or another color, but the white gene covers it completely.
Key points about white Maine Coon genetics:
- White is a masking color, not a pigment color.
- The cat’s true underlying color is hidden.
- White Maine Coons can produce nonwhite kittens depending on parents.
- The white gene affects fur and sometimes eye color.
Because the white gene is dominant, even one parent with the gene can produce white kittens.
White Maine Coon Eye Colors
Eye color in white Maine Coons is one of the most fascinating parts of the color.
A white Maine Coon can have:
- Blue eyes
- Gold eyes
- Copper eyes
- Green eyes
- Odd eyes (one blue and one gold or green)
The most asked questions online include “white Maine Coon with blue eyes” and “white Maine Coon kitten blue eyes.” Blue eyes in white Maine Coons are possible because the white gene blocks pigment from forming in the iris. Odd eyes are also common because pigment may appear in only one eye.
Do white Maine Coon kittens always have blue eyes?
At birth, yes. All kittens start with blue eyes. White kittens may keep blue eyes, but nonwhite kittens will not.
Are blue eyed white Maine Coons rare?
Not extremely rare, but they are highly desirable due to their striking appearance.
Can white Maine Coons have hearing issues?
White cats with blue eyes sometimes have hearing differences. Not all blue eyed white Maine Coons are affected. Many hear perfectly in both ears. Those with odd eyes may have normal hearing in the pigmented-eye side.
Responsible breeders test hearing when needed.
White Maine Coon Personality
White Maine Coons have the same temperament as other Maine Coons because color does not influence behavior. Expect a Maine Coon kitten to be:
- Affectionate
- Curious
- Intelligent
- Playful
- Loyal
- Easygoing
- Gentle with children
- Friendly with visitors
- Adaptable to homes and apartments
Families often report that white Maine Coons look angelic but have a fun, clownish personality typical of the breed.
Maine Coon Size and Structure
White Maine Coons have the same physical traits as any other color:
- Large rectangular bodies
- Strong bone structure
- Long plumed tails
- Tall ears with ear tufts
- Long uneven coats
- Slow maturing growth pattern
Males reach 18 to 25 pounds. Females average 12 to 18 pounds. Full maturity takes three to four years.
Why White Maine Coons Look So Striking
White coats create strong visual contrast against:
- Blue eyes
- Green eyes
- Gold or copper eyes
- Pink noses and paw pads
- Dark ear lining
- Large ear tips
Their photographs look clean and dramatic, making white Maine Coons especially popular on social media and breeder pages. The combination of large size and an all-white coat gives them a majestic, almost fantasy-like appearance.
Grooming a White Maine Coon
White Maine Coons are easy to groom, but they do require a little more attention around the face, paws, chin, and eyes because white fur shows stains more quickly than darker coats. With a simple weekly care routine and the right grooming products, their coat stays bright, clean, and soft.
White Maine Coons have the same water resistant, low-tangle coat as other Maine Coons, so maintaining the coat is still simple. Most of the extra attention centers around facial care and keeping the white coat bright.
Best Shampoos for White Maine Coons
White coats respond well to shampoos designed to brighten, lift stains, and remove oils without stripping the natural texture of the Maine Coon’s fur.
Recommended shampoo types for white cats:
- Optical brightening shampoos
These help reflect light and make the coat look cleaner and brighter. - Purple or blue-toned whitening shampoos
These reduce yellowing on the tail, paws, chin, and hind end. They neutralize discoloration caused by natural oils, saliva, and dirt. - Degreasing shampoos
Great for the chin area if your cat has oily buildup, acne, or dull fur around the muzzle. - Hypoallergenic shampoos
Gentle and ideal for cats with sensitive skin who still need regular facial cleaning.
Areas to focus when bathing a white Maine Coon:
- Under the chin
- Paws
- Tail base
- Chest and ruff
- Face (avoid getting soap into eyes)
Because Maine Coons have water resistant fur, make sure the coat is fully soaked before applying shampoo so the product reaches the skin.
How to Brighten a White Coat Naturally
Many owners prefer gentle methods to keep the coat bright between baths. These safe, simple tricks help maintain a clean, white appearance:
- Cornstarch or grooming powder to lift oils and dirt on the ruff
- Unscented baby wipes for quick spot cleaning
- Diluted apple cider vinegar rinse (very light dilution) to remove mild yellowing
- Pet-safe coat brightening sprays for instant whitening before photos
All of these methods maintain the coat without heavy washing.
Tear Staining in White Maine Coons
White cats sometimes show tear staining more easily because the fur is so light. This does not mean there is a health problem. It is usually caused by natural tear drainage.
Common causes of tear staining:
- Eye shape
- Teething in kittens
- Watery eyes from dust or wind
- Grooming habits
- Mild seasonal allergies
Tear staining is normal and manageable.
How to Clean Tear Stains Safely
Daily or weekly tear stain care:
- Use a pet-safe eye cleaning wipe to gently remove buildup.
- Wipe both under and slightly above the eye area.
- Dry the area afterward to prevent moisture buildup.
- Comb the fur downward to keep it clean and tidy.
More thorough cleaning for darker stains:
- Apply a tear stain removing gel designed for cats.
- Let it sit for the recommended time.
- Rinse carefully and pat the area dry.
- Avoid harsh, bleaching products that are unsafe for feline eyes.
White Maine Coons often show improvement in tear staining after teething is complete and once they finish kitten growth spurts.
Preventing Tear Stains in White Maine Coons
Preventing staining is easier than treating deep discoloration.
Tips to reduce tear staining:
- Keep the eye area trimmed with a small grooming comb.
- Avoid dusty litter.
- Maintain good hydration.
- Clean eyes after play sessions or outdoor time.
- Wash food bowls regularly to prevent bacteria that can worsen staining.
Consistent care creates the cleanest, brightest results.
Chin Cleaning and Oil Control in White Cats
White cats can show chin oils more easily. This area can look yellow or slightly dirty over time.
How to manage it:
- Wipe the chin daily or every other day with a pet-safe cleanser.
- Use stainless steel or ceramic food bowls to reduce bacteria buildup.
- If mild feline acne appears, switch to a gentle, medicated wipe recommended by your veterinarian.
Tangle Management and Coat Care
White Maine Coons generally have low maintenance coats, but long fur around the neck and tail can trap debris more easily.
Brush or comb:
- The ruff
- Behind the ears
- The tail
- Flanks
- The hind end
This keeps the coat clean and prevents light staining from everyday activity.
Paw and Tail Whitening
Because white paws and tails touch the floor more often, they pick up dirt faster.
Ways to keep them bright:
- Spot clean with a damp cloth
- Use whitening shampoo on paws during baths
- Trim fur between paw pads to reduce dirt collection
- Use a grooming powder on the tail base between baths
These small steps keep a white cat looking crisp for photos.
How Often Should a White Maine Coon Be Groomed
A simple routine helps prevent staining and keeps the coat white and healthy.
Weekly:
- Full brushing
- Eye area cleaning
- Chin wipe
- Paw wipe
- Ear check
Monthly or as needed:
- Bath
- Deep coat shampoo
- Tail and ruff brightening
White fur is easy to maintain when kept clean regularly instead of only when stained.
Grooming for Photos and Shows
If you need your white Maine Coon to look extra bright for photos:
- Bathe 24 to 48 hours before
- Blow dry the coat fully to increase volume
- Use grooming chalk or powder for last minute touch ups
- Clean eye area the morning of the photos
- Brush the ruff outward for maximum fluff
Even pet kittens photograph beautifully with minimal effort.
White Maine Coon Kitten and Where to Find One
White Maine Coon kittens are born snow white with pink noses and paw pads. Their eye color will start as blue and may change between 6 and 12 weeks. Some kittens keep blue eyes, especially if they inherit the dominant white gene strongly.
White Maine Coon kittens often stand out in a litter because they are bright and photogenic from the start. Parents with the white gene can produce white kittens even if one parent is not white.
White Maine Coon Price and Availability
White Maine Coons are considered a specialty color. Pricing typically reflects:
- Rarity
- Eye color potential
- Breeder quality
- Line type
- Registration
- Health testing
On average, a white Maine Coon kitten costs:
- $3,500 to $5,500 for pet quality
- $5,500 to $7,000 for show or odd-eyed kittens
Blue eyed white Maine Coons and odd-eyed whites are often the most in demand.
Are White Maine Coons Rare
White Maine Coons are less common than tabbies, solids, and smoke colors, but not exceptionally rare. Their rarity depends on:
- How many breeders work with the white gene
- The eye color combinations available
- Demand in your region
Because the white gene is dominant, it is possible to produce white kittens consistently when breeding a white adult to a nonwhite partner.
White Maine Coon vs. Albino Cat
White Maine Coons are not albino. Albino cats have no pigment anywhere, including red or pink eyes. A white Maine Coon simply has a coat masking gene that hides the cat’s true coloring.
White Maine Coon Eye Color Chart
| White Maine Coon Eye Color | How Common It Is | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Blue eyes | Common | Caused by pigment masking in the iris. |
| Copper eyes | Moderately common | Strong pigment appearance. |
| Gold eyes | Common | Found in many white kittens as they mature. |
| Green eyes | Less common | Seen when pigment returns partially. |
| Odd eyes | Rare | One blue eye, one gold or green eye. |
White Maine Coon Coat Types
Maine Coon Cats can appear in:
- Pure solid white
- White with faint cream undertones (from lighting)
- White with dark ear lining
- White with pink nose leather
Their coat stays fully white throughout life. They do not develop shading.
Do White Maine Coons Sunburn
White Maine Coons are more sensitive to sunlight because their pink skin contains less natural pigment, which means less protection from UV rays. The areas most prone to sunburn include:
- Ear tips
- Nose
- Eye rims
- Skin around the lips
- Any thinly furred areas
Sunburn can cause redness, irritation, peeling, and long term skin damage if exposure is consistent. While white Maine Coons do not need to be kept in complete shade, it is safest to limit direct midday sun and provide shaded or indoor environments. Supervised outdoor time, window perches away from harsh sun, and UV protective screens can help protect sensitive areas. Indoor living is recommended for all white cats to reduce the risk of sunburn and maintain long term skin health.
Sun Safety Tips for White Maine Coons
White Maine Coons benefit from simple precautions that keep their skin protected and healthy. Here are easy ways to prevent sunburn:
- Provide shade during outdoor time or screened patio play.
- Avoid midday sun when UV levels are highest.
- Use UV-blocking window film on sunny windows where your cat likes to nap.
- Keep outdoor time supervised so your cat does not sit in direct sunlight for long periods.
- Groom the coat regularly so fur stays thick enough to shield sensitive areas.
- Watch for redness on the nose, ear tips, or eye rims after time in the sun.
- Create indoor enrichment to reduce your cat’s desire to sit in sunny outdoor spots.
These small steps protect delicate areas and keep your white Maine Coon safe while still allowing them to enjoy natural light.
White Maine Coon FAQ
1. What makes a white Maine Coon cat different from other Maine Coon colors?
A white Maine Coon cat carries the dominant white gene that masks all underlying colors such as black, blue, red, cream, or tabby. While the coat color is different, the white Maine Coon has the same temperament, size, coat texture, and breed structure as any other Maine Coon. Their solid white coat often makes them appear larger and more striking, especially when paired with blue, gold, copper, or green eyes.
2. Are white Maine Coon kittens born completely white and do their eye colors change?
Yes, white Maine Coon kittens are born completely white with pink noses and paw pads. All kittens start with blue eyes at birth, but only some white Maine Coons will keep blue eyes into adulthood. Eye color may shift from six to twelve weeks and settle into gold, green, copper, or odd eyed combinations depending on pigment development.
3. How common is a white Maine Coon cat with blue eyes?
A white Maine Coon cat with blue eyes is uncommon but highly sought after. Blue eyes appear when the dominant white gene blocks pigment from forming in the iris. Blue eyed white Maine Coons are more frequently produced when at least one parent is fully white. They remain one of the most requested color and eye combinations among Maine Coon buyers.
4. Are odd eyed white Maine Coon cats rare and what causes the two different eye colors?
Odd eyed white Maine Coons are rare because they require partial pigment development in only one eye. This happens when the dominant white gene blocks pigment unevenly between the two irises. One eye stays blue while the other develops gold or green. This unique trait makes odd eyed white Maine Coons especially valuable and visually striking.
5. Do white Maine Coon cats with blue eyes have hearing problems?
Some blue eyed white Maine Coon cats may have hearing differences due to how the dominant white gene interacts with pigment cells in the inner ear. However, many white Maine Coons with blue eyes have normal hearing. Odd eyed white Maine Coons often hear normally in the ear on the pigmented eye side. Hearing tests are common in responsible breeding programs.
6. Are white Maine Coon cats considered rare compared to other colors?
White Maine Coons are less common than tabby, solid, smoke, and shaded Maine Coons, but they are not extremely rare. What is rare are certain combinations such as blue eyed white Maine Coons, odd eyed white Maine Coons, and pure white Maine Coons with exceptionally large structure and high show quality ear tips.
7. How large does a full grown white Maine Coon get?
A full grown white Maine Coon reaches the same impressive size as other Maine Coons. Males typically reach 18 to 25 pounds and females average 12 to 18 pounds. Their bright white coat often makes them appear even larger because the outline of their body stands out more clearly in photos and natural light.
8. Is a pure white Maine Coon genetically different from an albino cat?
Yes. A pure white Maine Coon is not an albino cat. Pure white Maine Coons have pigment in their skin and typically have blue, copper, gold, or green eyes. Albino cats have no pigment at all and have red or pink irises. A white Maine Coon’s color comes from the dominant white gene, not from albinism.
9. What type of grooming does a white Maine Coon cat need to stay bright white?
White Maine Coons need regular facial cleaning, tear stain removal, paw and chin wiping, and occasional brightening baths. Whitening shampoos, purple toning shampoos, and tear stain safe wipes help reduce discoloration around the face. Their long, water resistant Maine Coon coat remains easy to maintain as long as brushing and spot cleaning are done weekly.
10. How do you remove tear stains on a Maine Coon kitten or adult cat?
Tear stains on a white Maine Coon should be cleaned with a pet safe eye wipe or tear stain remover gel. Wipe under the eyes daily or weekly to prevent deep staining. Trim long facial fur if needed and avoid dusty litter that can irritate eyes. Consistent care prevents staining from becoming permanent.
11. Are white Maine Coon cats prone to dirt or staining more than other colors?
White Maine Coons show dirt more easily simply because of the bright coat color, but their fur is not more prone to actual staining. Areas that most commonly show discoloration include paws, chin, ruff, and around the eyes. Regular grooming keeps their coat bright and clean.
12. Can a white Maine Coon mix look similar to a pure white Maine Coon cat?
A white Maine Coon mix may resemble a purebred white Maine Coon, but mixes typically lack the distinctive Maine Coon head shape, ear placement, rectangular body structure, heavy bone, and thick tail. A white Maine Coon mix may have white fur and long hair, but it will not grow into the same large size or structure as a purebred.
13. How can I tell if a white Maine Coon kitten will keep blue eyes into adulthood?
You can predict blue eyes by watching whether pigment appears between six and twelve weeks. Kittens whose eyes remain a bright sky blue at eight to ten weeks are more likely to retain blue eyes. Kittens whose eyes shift to gray, green, or hazel during this time will develop a different final color.
14. What eye colors are possible in a white Maine Coon cat?
A white Maine Coon can have blue eyes, gold eyes, copper eyes, green eyes, or odd eyes. This is the widest range of eye colors in the entire breed. Eye color depends on how much pigment forms in the iris after birth and how the dominant white gene interacts with pigment development.
15. Does a white Maine Coon have a different personality than other Maine Coon colors?
No. A white Maine Coon cat has the same famous Maine Coon temperament found in all colors. Expect a friendly, gentle, playful, curious, and loyal personality. Coat color does not influence behavior.
16. What causes a white Maine Coon cat to develop yellowing on the coat?
Yellowing on white fur is typically caused by natural oils, tear staining, saliva staining, litter dust, or environmental debris. Whitening shampoos, grooming powders, and regular facial cleaning help prevent yellowing. Using stainless steel bowls and cleaning the chin area reduces discoloration under the jaw.
17. Can a white Maine Coon go outside in the sun and are they prone to sunburn?
White Maine Coons can be more sensitive to sunlight, especially on pink noses, ears, and eye rims. While light outdoor time is safe, prolonged direct sun exposure increases the risk of sunburn. Indoor living or shaded outdoor time is recommended to protect delicate areas from UV light.
18. How do breeders produce a pure white Maine Coon kitten?
A breeder produces pure white Maine Coon kittens by pairing a cat that carries the dominant white gene with another cat that either carries the gene or complements the line. Because the gene is dominant, only one parent needs to pass it on to produce white kittens. Breeders select lines that produce strong structure, tall ears, and consistent ear furnishings in white kittens.
19. Is a white Maine Coon cat more expensive than other colors?
White Maine Coons are often priced higher than common colors due to demand and genetic rarity. Blue eyed white Maine Coons and odd eyed white Maine Coons typically cost the most. Pricing varies based on breeder quality, genetics, structure, and temperament.
20. Where can I find a white Maine Coon kitten for sale from a reputable breeder?
White Maine Coon kittens should be sourced from breeders who use health tested, registered Maine Coon parents and who understand the genetics of the dominant white gene. Ethical breeders evaluate kittens for structure, temperament, and eye color development and provide transparent information about hearing, grooming needs, and growth expectations.
Conclusion
White Maine Coons are one of the most elegant and eye catching variations of the breed. Their snowy coats, expressive eyes, dramatic ear tips, and gentle temperament make them a favorite among families. Understanding their genetics, grooming needs, eye colors, and personality helps you choose the right kitten and appreciate the beauty of this special color.
Why choose a Maine Coon kitten from Almonte Cats?
At Almonte Cats, we breed Maine Coons from European and American champion lines. Our kittens are health-tested, registered, and raised in-home with love and socialization. We focus on producing large, healthy, affectionate companions with strong bone, sound temperament, and luxurious coats. See our Maine Coon Kittens for Sale here.
Sources & Related Reading
References and resources to learn more about Maine Coon breeding standards and care.
Breed Registries and Associations
- The International Cat Association (TICA) – Official registry for pedigreed cats and recognized Maine Coon breed standards.
- Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) – Oldest pedigree registry, providing breed descriptions and breeder listings.
- Maine Coon Breed Council – Maintains Maine Coon breed history, health updates, and educational materials.
Educational & Veterinary Resources
- Cornell Feline Health Center – Research and guidance on feline health, nutrition, and genetic conditions.
- American Association of Feline Practitioners – Best practices for veterinary care and early kitten wellness.
- Cat Friendly Homes Initiative – Tips for preparing homes for kittens and reducing stress during acclimation.
- Paw Print Genetics – DNA testing reference for breeders (educational overview only).
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