Viral Maine Coon Kittens Channel ‘Hocus Pocus’ Sisters as Breed Surges in Popularity

Three Maine Coon kittens from a Colorado cattery have captured social media attention for their uncanny resemblance to the Sanderson sisters from Disney’s “Hocus Pocus,” highlighting the breed’s continuing surge in popularity among U.S. pet owners.

The kittens, bred by Mountain Crest Maine Coons, display distinct color patterns that mirror Winifred, Mary, and Sarah Sanderson — the witch trio portrayed by Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker in the 1993 cult classic that has become a Halloween streaming staple. One kitten carries an orange tinge matching Winifred’s signature hair, another shows a darker chest like Mary, and the third has a lighter chest resembling Sarah.

Maine Coons, native to the northeastern United States and recognized as the official state cat of Maine, have ranked among the top five most popular cat breeds in America for over a decade. The Cat Fanciers’ Association placed them second only to Ragdolls in 2023 registrations. Their rise coincides with growing demand for large, dog-like breeds that tolerate household activity.

Adult males routinely reach 18 to 22 pounds, with females averaging 12 to 15 pounds. The breed’s distinctive tufted ears, ruffed neck, and water-resistant coat evolved for harsh New England winters. Unlike many purebreds, Maine Coons developed through natural selection rather than intensive human breeding programs, contributing to generally robust health — though hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia remain documented concerns.

The viral kittens also demonstrate a behavioral trait breed enthusiasts call “touch-activated” vocalization: one remains quiet until petted, then produces continuous trilling sounds. Maine Coons are known for chirping and trilling rather than standard meowing, a vocalization pattern some researchers link to the breed’s historical role as working farm cats communicating across distances.

For families considering the breed, veterinarians emphasize early socialization. Maine Coons typically tolerate children well when introduced properly, but their size means accidental scratches can cause more injury than smaller cats. The breed’s slow maturation — reaching full size at three to five years — requires extended kitten-proofing and nutritional management.

Mountain Crest Maine Coons has not announced whether the Sanderson trio will be available for adoption or retained for breeding. The cattery typically places kittens between 12 and 16 weeks after veterinary clearance, with waitlists extending several months for specific color patterns.