If you like the idea of owning a pet cat, then you might be shocked at just how many different types exist. The one thing to look out for when you are getting a cat, though, is size. Many assume that all cats are cutesy, small creatures that can sit on the edge of a sofa with ease. However, when it comes to larger cats, you might find their size prohibits certain activities. It can also change the way they live and how they tend to act – and react – in certain circumstances. Wondering what is the largest domestic cat breed? Then read on.
In this guide, we will break down the ten largest domestic breeds of cat that you might come across. These are big boys and girls, so you should be prepared for these cats to take up far more space than your average feline.
Why Do We Get Large Cats?
cats come in all shapes and sizes. Small cats, medium-sized cats, and then larger cats. There are many breeds of cats in the world, many more than most assume, and this can make finding your ‘ideal’ cat a touch difficult. Add in all of the hybrid and cross-breed styles, then, and the number of potential cat types balloons even further.
They all come with their own kind of personality traits and archetypes, too. Some cats are made for things like hunting down rodents; others are intended for living comfortably at home. Some breeds are very active and energetic, others prefer to just lie on the grass and enjoy the sun.
By the same token, some cats are cool and nonchalant even at the most significant of dangers; others are drama-driven. It simply comes down to many deciding factors and usually can be traced back to the kind of breed(s) the cat hails from. With that in mind, you can find it much easier to have fun with and enjoy the company of a cat. Once you get used to the fact that not all cats are the same, it is much easier to raise a cat and find a happy equilibrium.
When you accept that not all cats are going to act one and the same, you can find it much easier to understand and appreciate their behaviors. Even for those who are used to being around cats, though, the largest domestic cat breed options can still seem quite intimidating.
Spend time around a big cat and you can feel like you are face to face with a baby lion. Some of the larger cat breeds have that kind of authority and power about them. For that reason, you might want to take a closer look at these cats and determine if they would be the right fit for you.
Are The Largest Domestic Cat Breeds Harder To Look After?
It depends, really. Some of the breeds below are very nonchalant and cheery. Others can be quite demanding; some could even try and be domineering. Like any pet, the main challenge is making sure that you put down a bit of a foot and show them that you are the boss. That it is your home and your rules. Once you establish this power partnership, though, your cats should generally become so much easier for you to deal with and spend time around.
Larger cats, though, can be quite a troublesome issue for many pet owners. It is not because they are rude or aggressive – not always, anyway. It is often because they simply carry off their own personality traits and styles, so they can become a little bit awkward to spend time around. Generally, though, larger cat breeds can be quite easy to work with in many aspects.
You should therefore not expect that a larger cat is going to be more trouble to deal with simply because of its size. Many factors come into play when deciding how – or what – a larger cat acts like. For that reason, it pays to try and spend a bit more time researching each of the following breeds.
You might find that one cat breed in particular, despite its large size, is perfect for you. By the same token, you might quickly realize that another breed is simply not going to be right for you. We have provided as much detail as we can on each breed to give you a starting idea of what – if anything – you are getting by having these cats in your life.
A bit of understanding can go a long way with cat breeds. Research each breed beyond the below, and you can make sure you fully appreciate what you are getting yourself in for. So, what are some of the largest domestic cat breed options you can have as a pet?
What Are The Largest Domestic Cat Breed Styles You Can Find Today?
Ragdoll Cat
The first of the large cat breeds that we want to look at would be the Ragdoll. Ragdoll cats are very popular today, and many people find them to be great fun to spend time around. They are quite a unique cat, though their lifespan of around 12-15 years and their maximum weight of around 18lbs is quite typical. However, in terms of personality, they are very intriguing animals.
The Ragdoll is partially blind due to the make-up of their eyes, which is a bit of a shame to begin with. They need to be looked after with specific comfort. The name comes from their more energetic mannerisms; they love their owners so much that they will literally launch themselves into your arms – yes, like a ragdoll.
They can be hard work and the vision issues mean they need a lot of care and attention. For most Ragdoll owners, though, it is more than worth it.
Siberian Cat
The next feline to make our list would be the humble Siberian. The Siberian can live for up to fifteen years and, again, typically maxes out at around 18lbs in weight. The interesting thing about a Savannah is that despite their really calming and relaxed mannerisms they are always ready to stand up for their family. This means they can show a fearless streak even in the face of pure danger – if something like a snake comes into your garden, they will not hesitate to stand their ground.
You should keep this in mind, as many do not realize how brave these little cats can be. In terms of their care, they tend to need lots of care for their hair because it can grow pretty wild. They are also likely to leave a vacuum-required mess of hair during shedding season. That long coat, though, makes their winters easier.
Savannah Cat
These cats are for those who want a booksmart cat that can be a challenge to handle physically. Their energetic nature can make them seem a touch unhinged at times, but they do make some awesome friends for the family. We love the Savannah as it is known for being quite a smart feline, though we do have one thing to note.
Given their ancestry, many of these cats can be a bit on the wild side. They lack an ‘off’ button most of the time, and they can be quite typically found hunting prey. You might need to make sure they do not get into the neighbor’s gardens, especially if they keep things like birds and/or rabbits.
They do tend to mix well with people and are quick to ingratiate themselves with your family. However, they do need lots of time outdoors, so ensure you can commit to that.
Maine Coon
The next large cat breed that we want to look at would be the Maine Coon. These are very popular cat breeds, known for their sweet and endearing nature. One thing to note about these cats is that despite their size, they can usually only reach around 18lbs – some top out at a much smaller 8lbs.
So, in terms of weight, these are definitely among the smaller options for a large cat breed. However, there are some extreme stories of really big Coons that can reach as larger as 30lbs in weight!
However, with a lifespan of up to 14 years, you could enjoy many years of fun with a Maine Coon. They are great family cats, they tend to be ideal around the family, and they love spending time with people. In many ways, they are more akin to a dog than a cat.
Ragamuffin
A hugely popular large cat breed, the Ragamuffin cat is a great companion. They can live for up to 18 years for the most part and tend to be very much the ideal choice for those who want a loving, loyal pet. These are the classic cats – relaxed, mellow, and nonplussed by drama. They just love to walk around the place, being relaxed and enjoying life at their own agreed pace.
This makes them a great choice and they can be very good to have around the house. Their cute and warm faces make them great for kids, too, who tend to warm to them without any issues at all. One thing to note is that they tend to have quite long hair, so you might need to get used to tidying up after them thanks to regular shedding.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Out of all of the large cat breeds, the Norwegian Forest cat is a rather peculiar big feline. They can live for longer than 15 years and tend to top out weight-wise at around 18lbs. However, they look much heavier than they are and they tend to be very much enjoyable to spend time around. They are outdoor driven, though, so make sure you have plenty of space for them to roam around.
The main attribute of a Norwegian Forest cat is its loyalty. You should never have any problems with this cat leaving you. They love their families, and they do enjoy spending time with you. However, make sure you are taking them outdoors as often as you can. This is paramount to their health and their mood.
If you want a cat that hangs around with you all day, start with this breed.
British Shorthair
These surprisingly large cat breeds can be a good choice if you want an easy to manage cat who can live up to 20 years. They can be quite large, though tend to top out at around 17-18lbs. in terms of their size, they are large without being too lengthy.
They make good pets at home because they are quite placid and tranquil cats. The British Shorthair is famous for having very few requirements in terms of grooming, too, so they can be easy to care for if you have a busy schedule. They are known for being excellent hunters, frequently taking out rodents and whatnot.
They are pleasant and friendly to humans, though, and should be great to have around the kids. One thing to note is they tend to be people-pleasers around all family members; most cats typically bond with one family member over the rest.
American Bobtail
Most commonly found here in the US, the American Bobtail is quite a popular breed of cat for various reasons. They are fun to be around, they are engaging, and you should have no problem keeping one as a pet. They listen, they do as they are told, and they do not tend to become too rebellious or annoying.
They are playful and caring cats who can live for up to 15 years, making them great cats for the kids. They hold many personality traits akin to that of the Golden Retriever, so you can get used to them being very engaging company. They can pick up tricks, they love to play fetch, and they will stand up for you in more or less any situation.
If you want a truly loyal friend and companion, this cat is a fantastic choice to go with moving forward.
Turkish Van
Another cat breed that takes its name from a nation, the Turkish Van is a very popular breed of pet. They are quite interesting because they are loving and kind to their family but have a really short fuse when it comes to others they do not know.
Famed for their intelligence, they are easy to form a tight bond with – for one or two humans, anyway. They also tend to find any kind of roughhousing play to be off-putting. Tug on their hair, for example, and you could undo months of friendship in one single move. They also hate to be picked up or cuddled, so avoid giving them too much affection in that way.
Unlike most other large cat breeds, though, they tend to have a thing for water. Drop them into a bath and they will have a rare old time – quite unique for a cat.
Chausie
The last large cat breed that we want to look at is the wonderful Chausie. These are directly descended from some of the most famous Egyptian cat breeds, and as such, they carry many of their personality traits and looks. This makes them great cats to have around the place, but they can be a little bit eccentric in their playful nature.
If you live in a purely indoors setting, avoid getting a Chausie. They need lots of time outdoors; though if you can get them enough outdoors time they should have no problem settling in indoors for the evening. Keep them in all day, though, and they will not be in a good mood. They are enjoyable cats to have around the place, but they are still somewhat wild in their personality so they might not always do exactly as you ask or say.
Choosing The Right Largest Domestic Cat Breed
The job that you now have is to look through each of the above breeds with more intricate detail. It might take some time to research everything. The first thing to check is whether or not your chosen largest domestic cat breed can be kept in your area. Some breeds are not allowed in certain parts of the USA and the wider world. Make sure you look into this before you adopt a large cat – it could save you a fair amount of hassle.
At the same time, you should research the cost factors. We have given some starting details; now you need to work out the typical costs involves. This is very important as you could find it makes it much easier, in general, to build a rapport with your cat that you can feel positive about.
Once you understand the factors involved such as cost, you can then make a more informative call on what kind of largest domestic cat breed would be right for you. Have fun, and we hope you find the right cat for you!