Today we are going to tell you what the largest breeds of cats are and what qualities they have.
Did you know that the average weight of a domestic cat is 3 to 5 pounds? However, there are a decent number of other breeds that can weigh much more. Such giants in the feline world.
While cats come in many shapes and sizes, some breeds are particularly large, weighing in at over 20 pounds.
Cats come in all shapes and sizes, and if you’re not a fan of the smaller breeds, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the 10 largest cat breeds in the world including infographics.
These breeds are domesticated versions of their larger wild relatives, such as jaguars, lynxes, and lions, but with a more docile temperament and a strong bond with their owners.
Despite their size, many of these big cats are friendly and can exhibit dog-like behavior. However, it’s important to remember that these gentle giants have special dietary needs and require ample space for movement.
Larger breeds also need more exercise than their smaller counterparts, so make sure you can provide for them accordingly.
Additionally, these cats can make great protectors, keeping your home safe from small intruders like birds and rodents.
Join us as we explore the world of these magnificent felines, taking a look at their size, temperament, and unique traits.
We’ll discover what makes these breeds stand out from the rest and how they’ve been adapted for life as beloved pets.
So, let’s get started and discover the biggest domestic cats out there!
How We Rated the Largest Breeds of Cats?
Theoretically, there are a number of parameters by which the largest domestic cats can be identified. Ultimately, some cats may be heavier, others may be longer, and still, others may be taller.
In addition, certain breeds are considered to have longer legs and heavier bones. Some breeds, on the other hand, have long bodies, but their tails have not been rewarded by nature – they may be short.
A number of breeds have long hair, which makes them visually larger than their short-haired “colleagues”.
On top of all this, it is always the cats that are considered larger relative to the females.
And in the end, every breed has unique animals that have grown much larger relative to other animals for that breed.
So, despite the many parameters, how did we still rank the biggest cat breeds?
Here’s a little infographic to get you started!
Infographics
Our Basic Criteria for Determining the Largest Cat Breeds
We used the simplest possible approach to the rating. Standard parameters (weight, length, height) of adult animals of the same breed were used as a starting point.
The key factor is still weight – in fact, it was chosen as a starting point.
If weight is not enough to make a decision, the next criterion is the length of the animal together with the tail. And finally, if both parameters are the same, the final factor is the height of the animal.
1.Maine Coon is the Largest Cat Breed
| Weight, kg | Length, cm | Height, cm | |
| Male | 7-12 | 80-90 | 25-40 |
| Female | 4,5-8 | 80-90 | 20-35 |
Let’s start with this breed. It is considered the largest of all domestic cats.
Did you know that the Maine Coon is one of the most common breeds in the United States? By the way, size is not the decisive factor here. This breed is the official animal of Maine, USA.
Maine Coons do not reach their maximum size until they are three to five years old.
This huge cat is so cute and charming that it attracts and charms everyone who meets her. It is noticed that this breed is characterized by a certain tenderness and is very people-oriented.
It is also known that this breed was not artificially bred, but evolved naturally.
Stewie is the world’s longest cat
And so, don’t be scared, but Stewie is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest cat in the world. So, its length was 122 cm, and that, by the way, is more than 1 meter. Weighed about 12 kilograms, this “kitten”.
Stewie was known as the “gentle giant” of the feline world and was a certified therapy animal that often visited the local senior center near his home.
Cygnus Regulus Powers – the longest cat tail
Another winner of our list is the owner of the longest tail. This silver Maine Coon named Cygnus Regulus Powers (Cygnus translates as Swan) has the longest tail (nearly 45 cm). And it is a Guinness Book record!
By the way, his life was cut short tragically – he died together with another Guinness Book champion, Arctur the cat, in a fire in 2017.
2.Chausie – a Cat With a Dog’s Personality
| Weight, kg | Length, cm | Height, cm | |
| Male | 5,5-11 | 70 | 35-45 |
| Female | 4,5-8 | 70 | 30-40 |
Chausie is a cross between an Abyssinian cat and a Reed Cat. It was first recognized in 1995 by TICA.
By the way, who the TICA is, you can read in our article about the world felinological organizations.
It is known that most of the representatives are the largest of the known cat breeds. By the way, they can take up to three years to fully grow.
This breed has fairly long legs and the same body.
The Chausie cat is quite energetic compared to its other relatives. Actually, therefore, these cats will require a decent amount of attention and activity. They like to walk on a harness or leash, and the water is not alien to them too.
Owners of this breed also note their intelligence and compare their behavior to that of dogs. Chausie usually becomes real friends and family members.
Well, if you can’t have a cat and a dog at the same time, the Chausie may be a good alternative!
3.Savannah Cat: Domesticated Wildness
| Weight, kg | Length, cm | Height, cm | |
| Male | 4,5-11 | 40 | 35-43 |
| Female | 4,5-7 | 38 | 25-33 |
The Savannah is a striking representative of another rather large hybrid breed. Actually, it is a hybrid of the African serval and house cat.
The history of the breed is not so long ago – it was officially recognized by TICA in 2001.
When breeding savannahs, there is one interesting feature, when each generation is taken into account and marked with the presence of a percentage of the blood of the African serval.
For example, the first generation will be labeled F1, the second generation – F2, the third – F3, and so on. The basic principle here, the higher the number, the fewer genes (blood) from the cat’s serval.
Usually, the maximum value is number 7. But if the savannah cat is crossed with serval again, then the descendants will have 75-80% of the genes of serval. Accordingly, they will look like a serval.
Did you know? The more blood a savannah serval has, the more expensive it will be – the price can go as high as $20,000.
There is an interesting fact that cats of this breed look 4-5 kilograms heavier than they really are. By the way, savannahs are getting smaller and smaller from generation to generation – remember the F factor.
Now for the records. Scarlett’s Magic cat is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the tallest cat – 43 cm. As a comparison, you can imagine a small-sized dog!
This magnificent breed is characterized by a spotted pattern and is quite similar to another wild animal, the cheetah.
Savannah representatives are usually quite loyal, gentle, and contactable. However, it should be remembered that quite often she can get bored. And when this happens, she can use anything in your home interior.
Sofas, armchairs, and soft toys can all be ripped and scratched. Owners of this breed have coined the word “savandalism” in response to this behavior.
It is unequivocal that this breed will require a family that has enough time to socialize with it.
4.Norwegian Forest Cat: A Fluffy and Friendly Feline
| Weight, kg | Length, cm | Height, cm | |
| Male | 6-10 | 53 | 30-43 |
| Female | 4-8 | 28 | 25-38 |
And so, the Norwegian Forest Cat (often called “Wegie”) is a rather large domestic cat that is an asset of Norway. Here it is called exactly “Norsk Stogkatt” (Norwegian cat).
There is a story that these cats traveled with the Vikings to fight rodents on their ships. In addition, they were the best to hunt rodents in the rural fields and land.
By the way, there is another interesting observation – these cats are quite adept at getting down headfirst, such as from a tree or house. If you have noticed, this is not quite natural for most other breeds.
The Norwegian Forest Cat has adapted quite well to the cool Norwegian climate. After all, it has a thick coat, undercoat, and even a collar on its neck.
Like other Siberians, this breed has a rather gentle face and a strong wiry body. Animals of almost any color can be found, which is also not quite usual within the same breed. Similar to the other large breeds on this list, these cats grow slowly – maturity comes within five years.
The breed’s appearance is exotic – they have slightly triangular faces with almond-shaped eyes.
At home, Norwegians are usually quite contactable and reasonable. Of course, they will lie on your lap, but only for the time being.
If they do not want it, no trick will not lure them. For the most part, this breed is quite playful and sociable, which is certainly a significant factor in the “to be or not to be” decision as a pet.
5.Siberian Cat – a Strict Watcher
| Weight, kg | Length, cm | Height, cm | |
| Male | 6-10 | 53 | 23-33 |
| Female | 4-7 | 40 | 18-28 |
The Siberian cat is “serious” on the one hand and a soft and fluffy cat on the other. It is considered a rather old breed originating from Siberia.
The first mentions of similar cats are found in the sixteenth century. Definitely, their thick triple wool is excellent for living in such a harsh climate.
It is known that this breed was often kept in monasteries and churches to catch rodents. They were also used as “guard dogs” instead of watchdogs – it is not clear how true this is, but things happen.
These cats were also kept by shopkeepers, again to control rodents. Modern cats also have not lost their knack for hunting and can hunt even small rabbits.
They can get along not only with people but also with other animals. However, remember that hostile congeners will definitely fight back.
These cats love to play, are quite athletic, and will definitely demand your attention. If you intend to take the Siberian cat home, be prepared to give him enough of your time.
By the way, Siberian cats are considered to be a quite hypoallergenic breed.
6.Ragdoll – a Soft Toy
| Weight, kg | Length, cm | Height, cm | |
| Male | 5-9 | 45 | 30-35 |
| Female | 4-7 | 38 | 20-30 |
This semi-long-haired breed was bred in California (USA) in the 1960s.
Ragdolls are quite large and look very stunning. They reach puberty after 4 years of age, which explains why they grow so big.
This breed has an amazing silky coat – you may think of a rabbit if you have one. Also, note the pronounced blue eyes. The coat comes in blue, mauve, chocolate, or dark gray with darker markings.
So, why are they called “rag dolls”? The answer is very simple – they have quite low muscle tone and in a relaxed state they seem to “melt” and become soft in your hands.
Ragdolls are affectionate cats that love children and adults alike.
Remarkably, their famous distinctive quality is their ability to relax and feel contented in a human’s embrace. She may be big as a baby lap sitter, but you don’t tell her that!
According to one study, the Ragdoll is considered one of the least active cats.
This breed loves attention, and they are often referred to as “cat puppies” – you notice them running after their owners time and time again. Ragdolls can also be tried to be trained on basic commands.
7.Ragamuffin – a Street Kid
| Weight, kg | Length, cm | Height, cm | |
| Male | 5,5-9 | 40 | 25-35 |
| Female | 4-7 | 35 | 20-30 |
The Ragamuffin takes its origin from the crossing of the Ragdoll breed and non-breed street cats.
They are often referred to as “street urchins” because of their humble origins.
The breed was first recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 2003.
However, the large size is not the only distinctive feature of this breed. As the CFA points out, the Ragamuffin creates a rather close bond with its owner and is characterized by a quiet temperament.
As well as their closest relative the ragdoll, these cats have a smooth and silky coat texture. And around the neck and on the outer edges of the muzzle, the fur forms something like a mane.
The coat color of these cats is more varied than that of the ragdoll. In fact, they can be almost any color palette. Like the ragdolls – they have the peculiarity of “melting” in your hands.
Ragamuffins are gentle animals that are great friends with adults, children, and other pets.
They can be wonderful family members for lonely people – after all, they can’t take away their habit to curl up on your lap.
8.Turkish Van – a Water Lover
| Weight, kg | Length, cm | Height, cm | |
| Male | 4-7 | 86 | 35-43 |
| Female | 4-6,5 | 80 | 33-40 |
As well as the Maine Coon, the Turkish Van is a naturally evolved breed (the so-called “native breed”). It is considered a rather ancient breed originating from Central and Southwest Asia.
A remarkable fact. Genetic research data show that the Turkish Van is one of the most ancient breeds of domestic cats.
The Turkish Van is a strong representative of the beautiful cat breeds. They have a silky, medium-length, cashmere-like coat. In most cases, this breed is pure white in color with flecks on the tail and head.
The color of their eyes is usually either amber or blue. There are also often individuals with eyes of two different colors.
However, among the cat breeds, the Turkish Van is considered unusual for another reason. Actually, the name comes from Lake Van in its native Turkey, because these cats love to swim and bathe. And nature has given them everything for that – a long strong body and waterproof coat
Turkish Vans are also considered quite active and playful cats. They are equally fond of running, climbing, and crawling. Although from time to time, they may also sit quietly and purr affectionately next to their owners.
Of course, they don’t like to sit on our laps much, so they will follow you around your abode. And eventually, they will come after you for a bath in the shower!
9.British Shorthair – Let’s Try to Deal
| Weight, kg | Length, cm | Height, cm | |
| Male | 4-7 | 58 | 30-35 |
| Female | 3-5,5 | 45 | 23-33 |
In all probability, you are already familiar with this breed. You certainly know the smiling face of the Cheshire Cat from Lewis Carroll’s famous fairy tale “Alice in Wonderland”!
So, this cute smiling face one hundred percent shows the temperament and qualities of this breed. These cats have a sweet disposition and are considered an excellent choice for a faithful pet.
Did you know? The British Shorthair cat is sometimes called the Winston Churchill of the feline world. It is one of the oldest breeds of English cats. Supposedly, they were brought to England from ancient Rome.
Wonderful plush coats of different colors (about 30 shades), and spotted and marbled varieties uniquely distinguish them from other breeds.
Naturally, the most popular color is blue. These cats are dense but powerful. And their fur gives them a more “fat” look than they really are.
History says that at one time the British Shorthair was kept as a hunter in the food barns. But times have passed, and now they choose a quieter life as a whimsical pet.
Breeders and owners say that these cats have an opinion of their own – you’ll have to try harder to agree with her!
10.American Bobtail – a Cat With a Short Tail
| Weight, kg | Length, cm | Height, cm | |
| Male | 4-7 | 50 | 22-28 |
| Female | 3,5-5 | 43 | 20-23 |
And thus, the American bobtail comes from North America.
It has a rather peculiar kind of wild cat with a short tail. Equally, as dogs, these cats can wag their tail funny depending on their mood. Bobtails are considered to be quite a muscular and athletic breed.
The American Bobtail has two coat lengths: it can be either medium or short. In both cases, it will be as nice as our acquaintance, the rabbit.
Bobtails will show themselves as quite dynamic and energetic. They love to walk and play outdoors. Bobtails quickly get used to the harness, so walking with them will give you great pleasure.
Bobtails are considered to be quite an intelligent breed. Quite often they become very loyal to their families.
One can definitely say that they are affectionate and loving cats that will get along great with both adults and children.
Bottom Line
So, we have tried to objectively list all the largest cat breeds in the world. It seems to us that these breeds have something in common besides their size.
They all have amazing looks in harmony with their unique features. And they are all devoted and affectionate friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
Murmeo link to the article: https://murmeo.com/en/rating-of-the-largest-domestic-cats/
This article partly uses materials from Catological.com
