Carrying Crates for a Big-Boy – Your Maine Coon

If you’re the proud parent of a large male Maine Coon (or any robust, and mischievous, tuxedo cat with Maine Coon lineage), picking the right carrier crate for travel, vet visits or safe transport is really important. 

With your cat already 14 months old and in that in-between “still growing” phase, here’s a detailed guide to help you get it right.

Why size & spec matter for a Maine Coon

Maine Coons are significantly larger than average domestic cats: males can weigh up to 8–12 kg (or more) in some cases.

A crate that’s too small will make your cat feel trapped, stressed, and may even become unsafe (less manoeuvrability, more chance of discomfort).

According to Cats Protection: the right carrier should allow a cat to stand up, lie down and turn around comfortably. Cats Protection

“Big enough for the cat to stand up and lie down comfortably.” Cats Protection

Also, the durability and material of the carrier become even more relevant.

What to look for in a suitable crate

Here are the features you should prioritise for your large, chew-inclined Maine Coon:

1. Size & internal space

Look for a carrier that has some extra room beyond your cat’s standing length and width, this gives them space to shift position without feeling squeezed.

For example: a carrier listed as “large” or “extra large” is preferable to a standard.

Make sure both height and length are sufficient: while front-to-back movement counts, height gives comfort for standing or settling.

2. Material & durability

Hard plastic or strong metal/mesh designs are preferable over ultra-soft fabric bags: the Cats Protection guide says fabric carriers are not recommended because they may be less secure or less easy to clean. Cats Protection

Avoid materials that are easily damaged or bitten through.

Easy-clean surfaces are a bonus, travelling can lead to accidents or spillages.

3. Ventilation & emergency access

Good airflow on at least two sides is important to avoid overheating or stuffiness in the carrier. 

Top-opening doors or front doors are helpful: top access allows you to place or remove a reluctant cat without forcing them through a narrow door.

4. Secure locking / door mechanism

Make sure the door has a secure latch. For a large, strong cat, flimsy catch-mechanisms may fail.

If transported in a car, look for features that allow the carrier to be secured (e.g., with a seat belt), so it doesn’t slide around.

5. Comfort & familiarity

Place a blanket or towel inside that smells of home; this helps reduce stress.

You might want a non-slip base or a soft mat so your cat doesn’t slide around on transport.

When not travelling, leave the carrier out (open) so it becomes a familiar space rather than only being associated with the vet.

Your cat is large, playful, and likely to explore every opportunity—so a robust, spacious, well-ventilated crate is a wise investment. It’s not just about function; it’s about his comfort, safety and reducing the stress of travel/vet visits.

You can check out suitable cat carrying cases to purchase here https://amzn.to/4qBGOt8

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Why Do Kittens and Cats Bite or Nip Their Humans?

If you share your home with a cat, you’ll know that they can be affectionate, playful and full of personality. 

But many cat owners also experience something less pleasant – the occasional nip or bite. 

Whether it’s a tiny kitten gnawing on your finger or an adult cat giving a sudden “love bite”, it can be puzzling (and sometimes painful!). So, why do our feline friends bite their humans?

1. Play Behaviour in Kittens

Kittens learn through play. Chasing, pouncing and biting are all part of developing hunting skills. When they nip you during play, they aren’t being aggressive – they’re practising what nature has hard-wired into them.

Why it happens: They don’t always realise that human skin is much more sensitive than fur.

What to do: Redirect their energy onto toys, such as feather wands or soft chew toys, instead of your hands.

2. Overstimulation During Petting

Cats can reach a “tipping point” when being stroked. What starts as pleasurable can suddenly feel overwhelming, leading to a quick bite. This is often referred to as petting-induced aggression.

Signs to watch for: Tail flicking, ears turning back, skin twitching.

Tip: Stop stroking when you notice these signals, so your cat learns they don’t need to nip to get you to stop.

3. Love Bites

Some cats give gentle nips as a quirky sign of affection. These “love bites” are not meant to hurt – they’re more like a cat’s version of holding you with their teeth.

How to tell: The bite is usually gentle, without claws or growling, and may happen when your cat is purring or cuddling.

4. Attention-Seeking

Cats are clever. If they’ve nipped you before and you immediately responded (with talking, petting, or even moving), they may repeat the behaviour to get your attention.

Solution: Encourage positive attention-seeking instead. Reward calm behaviour with affection and playtime.

5. Teething in Kittens

Just like human babies, kittens go through a teething phase (around 3–6 months old). Chewing and biting help soothe sore gums.

Tip: Provide safe teething toys and chewable items so they don’t use your fingers as relief.

6. Fear, Stress, or Pain

Sometimes biting is a defensive response. If a cat feels cornered, frightened, or is in pain, they may lash out with teeth.

What to look for: Hissing, growling, wide eyes, or attempts to escape before the bite.

Advice: Always respect your cat’s space, and if biting is new or frequent, check with a vet to rule out pain or illness.

How to Reduce Biting in Cats

Provide plenty of toys and interactive play.

Learn your cat’s body language and respect their signals.

Use positive reinforcement to reward good behaviour.

Avoid rough play with hands or feet.

Biting and nipping are natural feline behaviours, but understanding why they happen can help you build a happier relationship with your cat. 

Whether it’s playful kitten antics, a love bite, or a warning sign, your cat is always communicating with you in their own way. By tuning in, you’ll strengthen your bond – and save your fingers!

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College Releases Free Downloads for Dog Owners

The British College of Canine Studies is proud to announce the release of two brand-new, informative and completely free downloads now available on its official website, www.dogcourses.co.uk.

The new resources, Dogs & Children and Responsible Dog Ownership, are designed to educate and support dog owners, families, and professionals who are working with dogs. 

Whether you’re a parent introducing a dog to your household, or simply want to ensure you’re providing the best care possible for your canine companions, these free guides offer practical advice, expert insight, and easy-to-follow tips.

Dogs & Children focuses on building safe, positive relationships between dogs and kids — a vital topic for families and professionals alike. 

Responsible Dog Ownership covers the essentials every dog owner should know, from health and behaviour to legal responsibilities and everyday care.

“Our goal is always to promote safer, happier relationships between people and dogs,” said a spokesperson for the British College of Canine Studies. 

“That’s never more important than when it comes to children. By offering these downloads free of charge, we hope to reach more people with reliable, easy-to-understand information that can make a real difference. We hope to play our part in reducing dog related bite incidents both in public and in the family home. 

"Things have been getting progressively worse long before lockdown but that certainly acted as an accelerant. The solution is a complex one that needs government intervention, new laws, enforcement of those laws, regulation of training and breeding, clamping down on puppy farms and the importing of overseas strays - there’s so much to sort out. Education plays a big part and we’re doing our bit.”

Website: www.dogcourses.co.uk or www.britishcollegeofcaninestudies.com

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