The 10 Largest Domestic Cat Breeds

Tiny kitties of common cat breeds aren’t for everyone – while their teeny elegant paws may enchant some cat lovers, there are those cat fans who are looking for a little more feline to love.

Any largest cat breed is exciting and intimidating at the same time. However, most large cat breeds require a lot more space and relatively low maintenance compared to standard breeds of cats.

One more important thing about giant cats: they are great hunters and if you let your huge cat out, hang a bell on its collar to know where your pet is all the time during the walk. Although it is best to keep big house cat breeds indoors.

Well, if you’ve got a lot of free space in your home and want to have a pet tiger, a large muscular cat can be an ideal match for you. Discover 10 of the top large domestic cats in the world.

Colossal Cats

When it comes to the big cat species, it is important to realize that they differ from common felines. The pets of big cat breeds are characterized by more confidence as well as more strong jumping abilities. Such felines tend to be more curious and energetic.

They usually build close bonds with their owners and are highly vocalized. Keep reading for each largest domestic cat breed in detail.

Maine Coon

The biggest domestic cat in the world, the Maine Coon, has not just big ears but also funny tufts on them that add this breed a special charm. Being an excellent hunter and one of the most popular fluffy cat breeds, this gentle giant is featured as an intelligent, playful, and affectionate feline.

Before getting this world’s largest cat, be sure that you are ready to take care of it. This long-haired breed requires regular brushing and bathing. Besides, the Maine Coon needs a lot of attention from its owner and this feline doesn’t love loneliness.

Weight: up to 35 pounds.

Savannah Cat

One of the most expensive cat breeds, the Savannah cat is a hybrid creature whose extravagant look impresses and surprises. Thanks to a blend of the domestic Siamese and the African wild cat, the Savannah has such a distinct appearance and unique nature.

Among the wild cat breeds, this huge feline is characterized by its exotic leopard-like look and large ears. This cat is constantly on the move and it isn’t safe as the rest of the biggest cats breeds.

These giant house cats can be aggressive and uncontrolled. Moreover, it is extremely challenging to train such cats and it is virtually impossible.

Weight: up to 30 pounds.

Norwegian Forest Cat

One more largest cat in the world is the Norwegian Forest Cat. As a massive, strong, and muscular creature, the feline of this breed usually has thick and long hair as well as magnificent wide yellow eyes.

The Norwegian Forests are loyal and friendly cats who build close links with their owners and get along with kind very well.

Due to their long hair, these cats need regular care. It is important not to forget to bathe these fluffy cats twice a week, brush every day and make regular check-ups at the vet.

Weight: up to 22 pounds.

Ragdoll

What a lovely 20 pound cat! The Ragdolls are known as the most charming or the cutest cat in the world. Their fascinated big blue eyes can leave no one indifferent. Kids and adults love this world’s biggest cat and the thankful feline gives its love in return.

Among different types of cats, the Ragdoll stands out due to its long luxurious fur and highly social nature. This cat is rather calm and patient. The Ragdoll cats are laid-back and cuddly inside and this feature makes them perfect family pets.

Weight: up to 20 pounds.

Chausie

As a close relative of the Savannah cat, the Chausie is a mix of a domestic cat and a wild jungle cat. The exotic-looking domestic short-haired cat like the Chausie is quite large, extremely energetic, and smart. This long cat possesses a flexible body and elongated strong legs.

Due to their feral appearance, the Chausie cats seem attractive and popular. But don’t forget about the rebellion and wild nature of this “hybrid cat”. It can be difficult to tame and train this feline and it is characterized by aggressive behavior.

Weight: up to 15 pounds.

Siberian Cat

While being similar to the Norwegian Forests outside, the Siberian cats are also great for cold climate conditions, these cats are quite similar inside. Such a huge cat breed as the Siberian cat is an independent and willful pet although it likes people and can build strong bonds with its owners.

They are communicative and devoted pets. The Siberian cats don’t require much care despite their long and thick fur. Actually, it is necessary to brush and bathe this cat type in order to avoid hairballs.

Weight: up to 28 pounds.

British Shorthair

Checking out the biggest grey cat breeds, the British Shorthair is the most popular and demanded one. So elegant and noble, this biggest cat in the world among the grey relatives is known for its extremely plush coat and intelligent, playful nature.

The British Shorthairs feature thick and strong legs, a wide chest, a muscular neck, powerful jaws, and strong muscles. Such an easy-going feline can be an affectionate and loyal companion for any member of the family.

Remember, this type of cat doesn’t like staying alone and it is necessary to have a lot of cat toys if you want your kitty to always be in a good mood.

Weight: between 13-18 pounds.

American Bobtail

The main feature that differs the American Bobtail from the rest of large domestic cat breeds is a distinctly short, stubby, and bobbed tail. This breed is characterized by shorter front legs and longer hind legs and a prominent hunting gaze.

The American Bobtails like stealing small things around the house due to their playful temperament. The American Bobtail cats are great for families that can spend much time with their special pet. They are extremely loyal and friendly.

They can learn new tricks very quickly because of their natural smartness and intelligence.

Weight: between 7-15 pounds.

Ragamuffin

Being one of the cutest cat breeds as well as the largest long haired cat breeds, the Ragamuffin cat is a type of Ragdoll. That’s why the Ragamuffin cats are very similar to the Ragdolls and they refer to kind and friendly tempered felines.

These mild-mannered creatures can be good companions and very loyal friends to all family members and especially to kids. The Ragamuffin cats tend to be in the center of attention and don’t like to stay alone for a long time.

Weight: up to 20 pounds.

Turkish Van

The Turkish Van, also known as the Turkish Cat or the Turkish Angora, belongs to the best cat breeds of large size. The Turkish Vans are famous for their well-built body structure with wide and strong shoulders and, of course, powerful temperament.

The biggest house cat breed like this one can be a perfect addition to any family because the Turkish Van is an active and playful feline.

Most importantly, this cat type loves water and has a propensity for swimming. They prefer playing games with their humans rather than lying on the sofa, especially if these games take place in the water.

Weight: between 9-13 pounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the World’s Largest Domestic Cat Breed?

The Maine Coon is frequently referred to as the biggest domestic cat in the world. These creatures can weigh up to 20 pounds, stand 16 inches tall, and have tails that can reach a length of 40 inches. These cats are frequently referred to as a cross between raccoons and big domestic cats because of their color and the tufts of hair that resemble a lynx.

The Norwegian Forest Cat is a kind of domestic cat that is also rather huge. This plush cat can grow to be up to 40 inches long and weigh up to 18 pounds.

What’s the Biggest Cat You Can Legally Own?

In the USA not all breeds of large cats from the list above are considered domesticated in all states. The Savannah and Chausie cats cannot be bought legally in some states. But you can legally own the rest of the largest house cat breeds without breaking any laws.

Do Bigger Cats Also Have Larger Paws?

Not always. The size of the kitten’s paws doesn’t depend on its size itself and it doesn’t define how large the kitten will be later in adult life.

Of course, a kitten with big feet and, thus, a relatively big bone structure might be a little bigger than its mates, but you won’t know for sure until the kitty matures. But keep in mind that domestic long-haired cat breeds may visually have larger paws because of the fur on them.

What About “Hybrid Cats”?

The results of mixing non-domestic and domestic cat breeds are known as “hybrid cats”. On our list above, you can find two large house cats who can be called hybrid ones, Savannah cats and Chausie cats.

These slightly different types of big cats are active and very playful creatures, but most breeders agree that they can be dangerous due to their aggressive nature.

What is the Average Size of a Domestic Cat?

The typical cat weighs between 8 and 11 pounds, is 9.1 to 9.8 inches tall, and is 18 inches long (not counting the tail). On average, they are tiny creatures.

How Big Is The World’s Longest Domesticated Cat?

Maine Coon Ludo is the longest domesticated cat in the world. Its length is 45.6 inches.

How Big Is The World’s Heaviest Domesticated Cat?

Often, world records are awarded not to large cats, but to overweight cats. That is why the heaviest cats are no longer listed in the Guinness Book of Records, so as not to encourage owners to feed their pets improperly for the sake of fame.

Conclusion

For those who are ready to get the biggest cat breed into their home, any of these gorgeous big house cats from our list would make a perfect addition to the family.

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