At least when it comes to cats, bigger is better. Big cat breeds can be pretty majestic creatures with distinctive and laudable characteristics. And that might be a great choice for you! If you want a big cat, have a look at our list of the top 10 Largest domestic cat breeds.
Due to the fact that domestic cats come in a wide range of sizes, from tiny kittens to startlingly massive adults, we’ve created a list of the ten largest domestic cat breeds. Considering that these breeds, like all others, are wonderful pets, consider bringing one of these larger-than-average cats into your home. They deserve more love, adoration, and cuddling. What a tiny tiger or panther wandering around!
Considerations to Make Before Purchasing a Big Cat
Large cat breeds share many characteristics with other cat breeds. Before deciding to go with a larger breed of cat rather than a smaller one when you are ready to add a cat to your home, there are a number of things to consider. They might, however, stand out in particular ways as well.
First of all, remember that bigger cats will want more space. For example, consider whether a large cat would be a wise addition to your little apartment or whether it would be wiser to select a breed that is smaller in size and would fit in there. No matter how big your house is, ask yourself if you have enough room to give your cat a big enough cat tree, cat bed, scratcher, etc.
Second, consider how active a breed is and how much movement and exercise they need. Again, the larger the cat, the more space she will need. However, if she also has a lot of activity, you’ll want to make sure you can provide her with space to run, climb, and play with a variety of toys.
Finally, you should think about how much grooming a large cat requires. For instance, you might need to give a kitten with a longer, thicker coat a little extra help in order to maintain the silkiness and smoothness of all that fur. A breed with minimal maintenance requirements is undoubtedly a better choice if you don’t have the time to brush your pet frequently.
Top 10 Largest domestic cat breeds
The following breeds, in general, make fantastic pets. Some of these cats are very fluffy or have shaggy fur, while others are extra affectionate and require a lot of care. Keep in mind aspects like their attitude, dietary needs, and grooming requirements in addition to their massive build, strong muscles, and magnificent stature.
Note: If you are prepared to take one of these kitties home, consider adoption as opposed to purchasing so that you can help save a life. Purebred cats can be found at shelters and rescues.
- European Forest Cat
Our list of the largest feline breeds starts off with the Norwegian Forest Cat, one of those iconic animals that never fails to draw attention. The gorgeous coat of these friendly cats, who are native to Norway, is actually water-resistant. Because of how slowly they grow, it could take them up to five years to reach their maximum size. When fully grown, these big cats can weigh more than 20 pounds.
Numerous factors contribute to the Norwegian Forest Cat breed’s appeal. Without a doubt, they are stunning cats, but they also have wonderful personalities. They are renowned for being intelligent, friendly, lively, affectionate toward their owners, and nice to kids and other animals. If you’re looking for a large, social, and active cat, this breed might be perfect for you.
- Maine Coon
You did realize the Maine Coon would be a part of it, right? The usual weight of a superb Maine Coon is up to 18 pounds, although some can reach weights of up to 20 pounds. It is probably the most well-known domestic cat breed and one of the largest. These cats can also be identified by the length of their bodies. It is also impossible to ignore this breed’s coat, which is described as heavy, silky, and shaggy. Some people think that these cats’ coats, particularly when coupled with their enormous size, give them an appearance of being “wild.”
These big, strong, active, and affectionate kittens grow up to be devoted pets. They are gentle giants. They are one of the most well-liked breeds since they are bright, independent, and enjoy connecting with people. You may expect one of these magnificent cats to want to be with you all the time if you’re thinking about getting one into your home.
- Ragdoll
The Ragdoll is a well-known, large breed of cat that gets its name from how happy it is to simply collapse in your arms. They make wonderful pets since they are sociable and enjoy cuddling. But because these large cats—often weighing between 10 and 20 pounds—can be challenging to carry for an extended period of time, you should work on building up your biceps.
Ragdolls with intelligence undoubtedly steal the show when they enter a room. They have a smooth coat, bright eyes (many have lovely blue eyes), and a laid-back personality, but they also have those things. They are a great choice if you want a cat that gets along with other kids and animals and are happy to spend time with you.
4. Russian
Both their temperament and size make Siberian cats famous. These gorgeous kitties are intelligent, active, and enjoy cuddling with their owners, much like so many other large breeds on this list. These felines have a weight limit of 25 pounds. They also have a gorgeous coat, which is one of the traits that set the breed apart; you can’t help but want to pet this cat.
The Siberian may make an excellent pet due to its amiable and playful disposition. These cats are well renowned for talking a lot, enjoy spending time with their human families, and you shouldn’t be surprised if your Siberian likes to play in the water.
- Ragamuffin
Another popular huge breed is the ragamuffin. These gentle cats are calm and tranquil, which makes them wonderful family pets. They are socially adept, clever, and enthusiastic about having a good time. But when one of these fluffy puppies is nestled up in your lap, you’ll undoubtedly feel it because they could weigh up to 20 pounds.
These cats resemble Ragdolls in appearance and prefer falling to the ground when being carried. They are adaptable, calm, and loving, and neither overly chatty nor overly busy. The kittens are white, but their coats change as they get older, and because they grow slowly, it will take them until they are about 4 years old for them to reach full physical maturity.
- Turkish Van
The attractive Turkish Van, which has a huge and solid body, must be included on any list of the largest domestic cat breeds. These cats are energetic, dedicated, and loving pets that, on average, weigh up to 20 pounds.
They commonly go swimming, which is why this breed is frequently referred to as the “swimming cat.” The Turkish Van is actually likely to be there if there is any water that could be approached or touched with a paw, such as a faucet or a fountain.
The Turkish Van is known for being talkative, gregarious, intelligent, friendly, and amusing in addition to having a lot of energy. They do need a lot of attention and can grow attached, so keep that in mind when thinking about adding one into your home.
- Chausie
Because it may weigh up to 30 pounds, the Chausie, a hybrid of the Jungle Cat and the Abyssinian, is what you might describe as a huge cat. Both their long bodies and their lovable, vivacious personalities make these active, athletic cats famous.
You can’t help but be amazed when you see a Chausie. They appear uncommon and exotic due to their size, power, and majesty. Instead of being bushy like some other large breeds, their silky hair draws attention to their athletic build. Overall, you might find that you’re completely smitten with these adorable kitties.
8. British with short hair
The stocky British Shorthair is a quiet and gentle breed that doesn’t ask for much because of its independent attitude. These cats are known for their spherical appearances while being rather large. They typically weigh up to 18 pounds.
If you’re looking for a cuddly, loving pet that won’t be unduly demanding or active, the British Shorthair is unquestionably a breed to consider. Although they are frequently recognized as the best lap cats, these cats are renowned for being devoted to their humans, kind to children and other animals, and loving. But when showered with love, these placid cats are able to feel it and show their gratitude to the people they form a link with.
- Pixie-Bob
The unique Pixie-Bob is a large domestic cat that weighs an average of 17 pounds or more and gets its name because it resembles a miniature bobcat. If you’re trying to get a fun, loving, enjoyable, and sociable pet, the Pixie-Bob won’t let you down.
Although this breed has unquestionably attractive features, their personalities are what really make them stand out. These felines are renowned for being sharp, sociable, entertaining, and energetic. They are quite calm, social, and get along with both kids and other animals. They aren’t very autonomous and create close relationships with their human families, therefore they need a lot of care.
10. Kolkata
Bengal cats resemble small wild cats and are bigger than other domestic cat species. These lively, curious, interested cats adore being included in the family. They weigh up to 18 pounds on average and have a long, lean physique.
These cats have a distinct personality in addition to an uncommon appearance. These adorable kittens will need to play and exercise to let off steam because they are high-energy, athletic, and extremely intelligent. When they’re not busy making you laugh and having fun with you, these devoted and loving cats value the time they get to spend with you. Another large breed that enjoys the water is this one. No day is boring when you have a Bengal by your side.
