Nestled in the rural beauty of Martin County, Lovely, Kentucky, Kentucky Wildcoons Cattery is a small but distinguished family-run operation devoted to raising Maine Coon cats of high quality, health, and character. Owned and operated by Robin Nicole Harmon, the cattery has earned a reputation throughout Kentucky and beyond not only for the beauty of its cats, but for its ethical practices and deep affection for its feline family. (The Big Sandy News)
A Journey from Nursing to Nurturing Maine Coons
Robin Harmon, who formerly worked as a nurse, always felt a pull toward animals. As her dream of working with animals took stronger shape, she transitioned away from medicine and toward cattery work. Kentucky Wildcoons officially launched in 2017, though the actual breeding began more seriously in 2019—once her breeding stock was carefully selected and her standards firmly established. (The Big Sandy News)
Breeding Philosophy & Standards
Kentucky Wildcoons is devoted to more than just appearance: health, temperament, and raising cats as part of the family are central values. A few of their practices include:
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Health screening: Each breeding cat is tested for genetic conditions such as HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy), SMA, PKD, FIV, FELV, and other mutation genes. If a cat doesn’t meet health requirements they don’t breed. (The Big Sandy News)
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Selective breeding & temperament: Robin ensures the cats are socialized inside the home; they’re allowed interaction, bond with humans, and are raised in an environment where mental and emotional wellbeing matter. (The Big Sandy News)
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Quality over quantity: The cattery limits the number of litters to give proper care, attention, and bonding. Additionally, Harmon's policy includes breaks between litters for the health of the cats. (The Big Sandy News)
The Cats & Kittens
Kentucky Wildcoons raises Maine Coon kittens, known for their large size, tufted ears, bushy tails, and gentle, friendly personality. The cattery’s bloodlines are international and domestic, including lines from Russia and other established Maine Coon breeders within the U.S. This helps maintain genetic diversity and desired traits. (The Big Sandy News)
Kittens are sold mainly as companions; breeding rights are rarely transferred unless under very specific circumstances and to people the breeder knows personally. Buyers are also expected to show a connection with the kitten, ensuring a responsible match. (The Big Sandy News)
Prices for kittens are in the typical range for high-quality pedigreed Maine Coons, with added assurance of health testing and continued breeder support. (The Big Sandy News)
Community, Reputation & Recognition
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Kentucky Wildcoons has been recognized as one of the top Maine Coon breeders in Kentucky. (The Big Sandy News)
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The cattery is certified and operates under standards of organizations like CFA and TICA, but follows WCF (World Cat Federation) standards for certain breed conformance. (The Big Sandy News)
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Beyond breeding, there’s a strong emphasis on the bond between humans and cats: the animals are raised in home settings, with interactive environments rather than being kept in cages or minimal shelters. Enrichment is considered part of their welfare. (The Big Sandy News)
Location & Contact
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Address: 60 1st St, Lovely, KY 41231 (MapQuest)
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Phone: (606) 626-7566 (MapQuest)
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Online presence: They have a website (kentuckywildcoonscattery.com) and social media (Facebook) for updates on litters, photos, and more. (MapQuest)
Challenges, Ethics & What Sets Them Apart
Breeding cats—especially large, pedigreed ones like Maine Coons—isn't simply about producing kittens. Some of the challenges and ethical commitments that Kentucky Wildcoons faces and prioritizes:
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Time and commitment: As Harmon points out, the work is 24/7; there are no vacation or personal days when kittens need care. (The Big Sandy News)
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Health over profit: Not every kitten becomes a breeder, and not every breeding cat continues to breed if health issues arise. (The Big Sandy News)
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Maintaining standards: Importing and selecting quality bloodlines—from various parts of the U.S. and abroad—requires careful vetting and trust. (The Big Sandy News)
Why Choose Kentucky Wildcoons?
If you're considering a Maine Coon kitten, here are a few reasons Kentucky Wildcoons might be a great choice:
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Health assurance – Genetic testing and vet work to minimize common hereditary issues.
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Temperament and socialization – Cats being raised as part of a household, not just in cages.
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Continued support – The breeder keeps in contact, offers advice, and ensures matches are responsible.
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Quality bloodlines and pedigree – Carefully selected stock, both domestic and imported, aiming for excellence.
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Ethical breeding practices – Limiting litters, giving breeding cats rest, prioritizing welfare over sales.
Photo Credit: Robin Harmon — Kentucky Wildcoons Cattery, Lovely, KY