I have a Maine Coon mix, Siggy, (MC/Ragdoll) and Freya (MC). Both love our home and their guardians but initially did not like to be held.

Maine Coons are described often as loving and cuddly. But that isn’t always the case. Every cat is different, regardless of the breed. They may have tendencies but not regularities. They are individuals.

Their personalities are shaped in part by their first weeks at the breeder. Siggy was reared then in a farm home with lots of people and animals. Freya was reared in a home with less socialization. She still resists being held, most of the time. But time is what we need to solve that problem.

The tendency of Maine Coon kittens is to follow you everywhere. That’s pretty standard. They often are called the dogs of the cat world. Many dogs dislike being held in the lap. They like to be near you, especially when sleeping. So do many MCs.

Nevertheless, being held is important. You have to take them to the vet and otherwise keep them safe from household dangers.

To start the process, find a moment, preferably when they are just waking from sleep, to lift from the belly and put on your heart, as in the above photo. If the kitten tries to escape, hold firmly until she loosens and gets to like the feeling. Then put her down before she struggles again.

Do this every day and soon your kitten will trust that you always will put her down, and then as she gets older and more confident, you will hold her longer and longer.

Then she probably will come to you to purr.

Savor each moment of cuddling joy. Each is precious and soothing, for cat and guardian alike.