Cats are often thought of as tiny, agile animals that are comfortable curling up on your lap. However, not every cat is small. Certain domestic cat breeds stand out from the others due to their impressive size, muscular bodies, and long, flowing coats.
There are a few breeds that might work for you if you’re a big cat lover but are unable to keep a tiger or lion at home. Despite their reputation for being large cats, these animals make loving companions and appreciate the comforts of indoor living.
We’ll look at the largest domestic cats in this article. You’ll learn about some of the most gorgeous cats that might live in your house, from their distinctive characteristics to the causes of their remarkable size.
| Cat Breed | Average Weight |
| Maine Coon | 15-25 lbs |
| Savannah | 12-20 lbs |
| Ragdoll | 10-20 lbs |
| Norsk Skogkatt | 13-22 lbs |
| Chausie | 15-20 lbs |
Temminck"s cat
Asian golden cat pursuing its prey
It goes by the names catopuma and Asian golden cat as well. Although they are uncommon in Russia, a few Temminck’s cats are home to well-known politicians. However, animals are highly domesticated in Asia, particularly in Tibet and Thailand. In addition to the aforementioned, mainland Malaysia, Nepal, India, and South China have become the home of golden cats.
Members of the species are exquisite, yet distinctive beings. If these beauties are kept, it’s in private residences. When the animal is adopted as a kitten, training is still possible, but by the time it reaches adolescence, it is no longer worthwhile. Adults, on the other hand, won’t make adorable pets. It is worthwhile to begin with the activities of cats, which take place in the early evening and morning hours. Furthermore, nobody has eliminated the predatory aspect.
Asian golden cats consume small rodents and birds as food. Pets require a private home’s territory due to their mobility.
And lastly, the animals’ sizes are crucial. Cats will be given a German shepherd’s head at withers, measuring 56 cm and up. weighs between nine and sixteen kilograms.
Caracal
A cat with ear brushes
A predator can be described as bold yet exquisite. Karakal is a stunning animal, but its personality is somewhat lacking. The wealthiest individuals bring Karakal into their homes as a pet, but even with a home, Karakal is still a dangerous and mischievous animal.
Members of the species are affectionate and skilled jumpers. A predator can cover a distance of 4.5–5 meters in one jump. Although the animal shares many physical traits with lynxes, Karakala was classified as a different kind due to its genetic makeup.
African attractive men are well-known for their appearance in addition to their wayward ways. The cat can weigh between 11 and 19 kg at its withers, which are 45 to 48 cm tall.
Steppe cat
Dejected steppe feline
Felis lybica appears to be a typical, extremely obese, depressed, and slightly cross-eyed cat from the outside. Representatives of the species can be found in the Astrakhan Region and the Moscow Zoo within the borders of the Russian Federation. In the latter scenario, the steppe cat hides in the thickets and prefers to avoid human contact.
It is very uncommon as a pet, mostly in Asia and Kazakhstan. They eat mice and other small rodents in captivity, and they adore beef and chicken. A pet of this type only lives for seven to ten years.
Fascinating fact: steppe cats are remarkably timid. The animal curls up into a fur ball and arches its back when it encounters an opponent. The cat will fall on its back and use its paws to fight off the opponent if he attacks again. The steppe cat is generally more likely to flee than to engage in direct conflict.
The felis lybica is a large, cowardly animal. An adult cat weighs between 6 and 8 kg.
Serengeti
A small domestic "serval" that is not descended from a wild animal. How is it possible? It’s easy: Bengal and Oriental cats were the breed’s original progenitors. Consequently, we were gifted with handsome felines with outstanding personalities.
The Serengeti are great walkers and mover. It wouldn’t be unnecessary to walk the animal in a harness if it lived in an apartment. Breed representatives adjust to leashes and harnesses very quickly and patiently let you put them on them. When it comes to exercise, running is the Serengeti’s preferred sport. Cats can "cut circles" around the apartment if they don’t have the chance to let off steam outside. In games and runs, he will turn into your best friend if there is a child at home.
Running is great, but it gets a little scary when an 8–15 kg hurricane comes hurtling through the apartment. Cats of the Serengeti breed are among the largest.
Arabian Mau
Upon first inspection, a typical yard cat
This cat is supposed to be an indigenous mongrel, but in 2004 it became well-known worldwide. Additionally, the animal was granted "pedigree" status in 2008.
The oldest breed to originate from the Arabian Peninsula is the Arabian Mau. With summertime highs of +55 degrees, this land area is regarded as one of the hottest on Earth. In certain places, there are only solid sands, and there are issues with humidity as well. Native cats made it through such a harsh environment.
Members of the breed tend to be very gregarious, in good health, and low maintenance. There aren’t many catteries in Russia that breed Arabian Maus.
It’s unfortunate… Mau are attractive, climatically adaptable, and amiable. The sole disadvantage is their size; adult cats can weigh up to 9 kg, with females weighing slightly less. But when did the animal’s weight category stop breed enthusiasts?
The biggest domestic cats, such as Maine Coons, Savannahs, and Norwegian Forest Cats, provide remarkable size and lovable dispositions if you’re searching for a large, amiable feline friend. These breeds make excellent house pets even though they can weigh more than 15 pounds—some even going up to 20 or more. Their gentle, playful, and loving nature makes them an ideal choice for families seeking a large cat with an enormous heart, even though they are quite large.
Norwegian Forest Cat
The caretaker of the Norwegian forests unintentionally attracted attention from onlookers. According to an old legend, the breed’s representatives looked like this.
The world would have never heard of this breed if one of the cats watching over the forest had not become sidetracked. Cat lovers have fallen in love with many beautiful animals with unique personalities. Owning a Norwegian forest cat is seen as elite because these cats make excellent ambassadors for the breed.
"Norwegians" weigh between 6 and 9 kg when they are by themselves. They have huge volumes from their thick fur, which gives the purr the appearance of a fur ball. In actuality, a layer of fur covers a muscular body.
Members of the breed tend to be friendly and peaceful. They are heights of love and silence. If you’re considering getting a Norwegian forest cat, you should consider the animal’s habitat. These gorgeous cats adore all types of shelters; a home featuring an elevated scratching platform would make a wonderful present for a Norwegian forest cat.
Siberian forest cat
An actual Russian feline
The size of the breed’s representatives is remarkable. Cats weigh between 8 and 12 kg on average, with some weighing slightly less. Siberians are known for their agility, love of heights and jumping, love of swimming, and dislike of familiarity, despite their large stature.
Russia breeds the Siberian forest cat. Long, dense fur protects against Russian frosts, but it needs to be maintained constantly. Every three to four days, cat owners comb their pets to prevent tangles in the fur.
Considering that Siberian cats are proud creatures, this breed’s kittens should not be acquired by families with small children. A child who is too bothersome can be replaced by a "Siberican."
There are many stunning breeds to choose from when selecting a large domestic cat. These cats, which range in size and personality from the majestic Maine Coon to the striking Savannah, add a special charm of their own.
Big cats make excellent companions because they are not just about size; they also frequently have kind and loving dispositions. It’s vital to be prepared for the commitment that comes with owning one because they do require a lot of room and care.
These big cats may add happiness and company to any home, whether you are drawn to their energetic playfulness or their relaxed, easygoing demeanor. One of these gentle giants might be the ideal addition to your family, provided you have the space and the love to spare.
