Should a Maine Coon have a larger-than-average cat tree?

Absolutely yes - Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds, so standard cat trees often have small perches, flimsy posts, and low platforms that don't support their size or weight. A bigger tree with thick, sturdy scratching posts, wide platforms, and deep, reinforced perches prevents tipping and gives them room to stretch, climb, and lounge comfortably.

Most standard cat trees are built for smaller breeds, so a larger tree with wider platforms and thicker posts handles their weight better and prevents wobbling when they jump or stretch.

Seeing a Maine Coon try to squeeze onto a tiny standard perch is both hilarious and a little sad - they really need that extra real estate to sprawl out like the majestic floof-beasts they are. A bigger tree with generously-sized, deep platforms lets them lounge in their favorite stretched-out poses without their tail or paws dangling off the edge, which is pure comfort for a cat that loves to survey their kingdom from on high.

Living in Japan, I’ve seen how much space even a normal-sized cat needs on those tiny tatami-matted apartments, so for a Maine Coon it’s basically essential to get a tree that’s built like a sturdy little pagoda. Bigger platforms and thicker posts mean they can sprawl out like they’re claiming their own private island, which reminds me of how Western-style furniture always has more room for lounging.