The 10 Largest Domestic Cats in the World

Maine Coon Kitten

Cute cats are lovely to look at and watch videos of on the internet. From making houses out of wrapping paper to dancing cats, cat videos always light up a room. But what’s even better is loving the feline creatures that come in an oversized package. Globally, there are dozens of large domestic cats breeds. Let’s “catalogically” rank the ten largest domestic cats to choose from for big cat lovers.

10. Chausie

The Chausie is another breed that has wild roots. The feline is a crossbreed of domestic and feral cats but still retains wild tendencies. They are very active and can get aggressive when deprived of energy-consuming activities.

Chausie overview

  • Can weigh up to 22 pounds
  • Lifespan is 13-17 years
  • Its height is 14 to 18 inches

The energetic cat can get quite busy, and you will have to buy a lot of toys if you don’t want the cat to bring you rodent gifts.

9. British Shorthair

The Cheshire cat in Alice in Wonderland comes to mind when you mention the British Shorthair. The beautiful Brit has a dignified and calm personality to match the plush coat. It is an affectionate cat, but it is its boss. Despite its independent nature and love of frolicking in the meadows, it is a highly loyal cat. The British Shorthair is ideal for easy-going cat lovers who want to balance attending to the cat and other house chores.

British Shorthair overview

  • 15-20 years lifespan
  • Placid character
  • Wide faced
  • Average weighs 18 pounds

8. Turkish Van

The Turkish Van from Eastern Turkey, identified as the swimming cat, loves water and is quite playful. The large feline can weigh up to 20 pounds. Its cashmere-like fur and warm white coat make it a cuddly big cat. However, the cat does not like tugs and petting but is very loyal and can follow you everywhere. Turkish vans are not fond of too much affection. But what the Turkish Van lacks in fancy makes up in intelligence and playfulness.

Turkish Van overview

  • Van patterns on its head and tail
  • Fun-loving cat
  • Lifespan is 12-15 years
  • Can weigh up to 20 pounds

7. Ragamuffin

A close cousin to the Ragdoll, albeit long-haired, the Ragamuffin possesses the same docile character of the Ragdoll but has a more inviting appearance than its counterpart. The Ragamuffin origin is the crossbreeding of domestic cats and long-haired cats. The cats love long stretches of loneliness but prefer to spend their time indoors.

Ragamuffin overview

  • Mellow character
  • Can weigh up to 20 pounds
  • Its lifespan is 14-18 years

6. Bengal

The Bengal cat seems home in the jungle than on your porch. It owes its athletic body to its ancestors, the Asian Leopard Cat and the Egyptian Mau. The Bengal can weigh 18 pounds and loves to play and climb. There is still contention whether the cats should be domesticated, with some States banning ownership. However, the Bengal is a confident and fun-loving cat that you won’t have a dull moment with it by your side. Interesting fact: Bengal cats love water as much as Turkish Vans. You can spot them playing at faucets or fountains.

Bengal overview

  • Can weigh up to 18 pounds
  • 8 to 10 inches in height
  • Lifespan is 10-16 years

5. Siberian

The Siberian cat has similar adaptations to its close relative, the Norwegian cat, but an extra coat makes it hypoallergenic. The cat, considered a Russian treasure, can weigh 18 pounds. It is affectionate to both kids and other pets. Siberian cats are skilled hunters and highly intelligent. No wonder the monks kept the cats as ‘watchdogs’ in the monastery.

Siberian cat overview

  • Muscular body
  • Fearless
  • Can weigh up to 18 pounds
  • 9-11 inches in height
  • Its lifespan is 10-18 years

4. Ragdoll

The giant feline obtained its name from its fluffy nature, doll-like appearance, and the way it folds on your lap like a rag. It is a Siamese and Persian breed but commonly found in California. The “chillaxer” requires some muscle to hold it as it can grow up to 20 pounds. Despite their large bodies, the laid-back cat loves affection, and the bright blue eyes attract every owner. The fluffy cats make incredible cuddle partners with a knack for the couch. The elegant feline is a big fan of fetch and will keep your hands and laps full during winter.

Ragdoll overview

  • Bright blue eyes
  • Docile and affectionate
  • Can grow up to 20 pounds and 11 inches in height
  • Its lifespan is 12-15 years

3. Savannah Cat

The Savannah cat is another hybrid that you would recognize due to its striking coat resembling a cross of the tiger and leopard with varying shades of black and common brown. Don’t be fooled by their lithe build; the cat weighs 12-25 pounds contingent on the links to its serval ancestor. According to the Guinness World Book of Records, the Savannah Cat called Scarlet’s Magic is the tallest, measuring 17.1 inches. The savannah cat is quite playful and likes to head-butt owners. However, it is exceptionally photogenic and loves to feed. Note: Thousands of cat foods get recalled every year. Sign up for cat alerts to receive updates whenever any cat feed is recalled.

2. Norwegian Forest Cat

Yes, you guessed it right, the pride of Norway, the Norwegian Forest Cat or the wegie originated from Norway through crossbreeding domestic and wild cats. The seasoned rodent hunter can grow up to 20 pounds, with some cats tipping 30-pound scales. The cat’s adaptation to Scandinavian climates resembles the Maine coon’s adaptability. However, the wegie has a dense double coat that is waterproof. Remember to buy a comb or two for when it sheds its fur. The Norwegian Forest Cat loves to explore the outdoors; however, they are affectionate when they wish to be.

1. Maine Coon

Pound for pound, the Maine Coon is the largest domestic cat growing to 18 pounds on average. The massive feline has accrued accolades for the largest, longest, and most giant cat in many cat fairs and events. The origin of the cat is still contentious, like section 58. Some even claim it is a CIA operative. Despite the myths surrounding its origination, we cannot miss the hunting prowess and imposing meow it possesses. You cannot leave these creatures for too long due to their affectionate nature and intelligence.

Maine coon overview

  • Can live up to 14 years.
  • The distinguishing feature is its voluminous tail.
  • Weighs between 18 to 30 pounds.

Be ready to care for this giant cat and involve it in many of your projects except math quizzes (cats flunk algebra all the time). Maine coons need constant affection too.

Conclusion

It’s time to throw out the phrase, “good things come in small packages.” Larger felines offer you an opportunity to show more love. Choose your bundle of joy from the top ten most giant domestic cats and care for it.

You can also read:

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.