Buying a Maine Coon in Canada: CCA Breeders and Kijiji Scams#

If there is any country on earth designed for the Maine Coon, it is Canada. This is a breed that evolved to sleep in snowbanks and thrive in sub-zero temperatures. In many ways, bringing a Maine Coon to Canada is just bringing it home.

However, the Canadian cat fancy operates differently than the US. You have your own registry (CCA-AFC), your own travel challenges (Air Canada embargoes), and a unique problem with online marketplaces like Kijiji.

If you are looking for a gentle giant in the Great White North, here is how to navigate the landscape from British Columbia to Newfoundland.

The Registry: CCA-AFC vs. TICA#

In the US, we talk about CFA and TICA. In Canada, the big player is the Canadian Cat Association (CCA-AFC). While many Canadian breeders are dual-registered with TICA (The International Cat Association), a breeder who is registered only with the CCA is still a legitimate, ethical option.

The “Papers” Check: If a breeder says “the kittens come with papers,” ask which papers.

Legitimate: CCA, TICA, CFA.
Scam: “Pet Passport” (this is just a vaccine record), “Vet Certified” (meaningless for pedigree).

The Kijiji Problem#

In Canada, Kijiji is the dominant classifieds site, far bigger than Craigslist. Unfortunately, it is also the primary hunting ground for backyard breeders and scammers.

I have seen countless “Purebred Maine Coons” listed in rural Ontario or Alberta for $800 CAD on Kijiji.

The Reality: These are almost always unregistered Domestic Longhairs, or sick kittens from kitten mills.
The Rule: Legitimate breeders might post on Kijiji to announce a litter, but they will ALWAYS direct you to a professional website or Facebook page. If the transaction happens entirely within Kijiji messages, walk away.

Regional Guide#

1. Ontario (The Hub)#

Ontario has the highest concentration of breeders. The competition is high, but so is the quality.

Look For: Breeders who show at the CCA shows in Toronto and Ottawa.
Recommended Cattery: Tundracat Maine Coons (Historic, reliable lines).

2. British Columbia (The West Coast Style)#

BC breeders often work closely with Washington State (US) breeders. You see a lot of Polydactyl lines here due to the TICA influence.

Warning: The flooding and heat domes in recent years have impacted catteries. Ensure the breeder has good climate control.

3. The Prairies (Alberta/Saskatchewan/Manitoba)#

Breeders here are spread out. You might have to drive 6 hours to pick up a kitten.

Winter Transport: Do NOT plan to fly a kitten in cargo during winter. Most airlines place an embargo on pets when the tarmac is below -10°C. You will need a “Cabin Nanny” or you will need to drive.

Conclusion#

Canada produces some of the largest, healthiest Maine Coons in the world (the climate helps!). But you must look for the CCA-AFC logo and avoid the “cheap kitten” allure of Kijiji.

References#

Canadian Cat Association (CCA-AFC). Breeder Directory and Show Calendar.
TICA. Canadian Region Breeders.
Government of Canada. Importing Domestic Cats (Rules for US imports).