Biggest House Cat Breeds in the World

The process of cat domestication has been carried out for millennia, with some research suggesting that cats may have domesticated themselves^[1]. This means wild cats approached human settlements and then began a commensal relationship which provided benefit to both parties. Cats received food and shelter, humans received pest control and affection.

Wild cats that began domestication were relatively large compared to domestic cats, although it will depend on the species. It is most likely that different species contributed to what house cats have now become, although the African wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica) appears to be a significant contributor.

Purposeful breeding by cat fanciers has also resulted in larger breeds. Breeders encourage certain traits, with size being one of them. If large individuals are routinely bred with other large cats, the result is a larger breed. With this in mind, we can say the biggest domesticated cat breed is the Maine Coon. Not only is the Maine Coon the largest breed, but the largest house cat every recorded is a Maine Coon named Stewie who measure 48.5 inches (123 cm) from nose to tail.

Now we know the biggest breed and individual domestic cat, we take a look at the largest house cats in the world:

As we know, the world's biggest house cat breed is the Maine Coon. The following is the list of the top 12 largest domestic cats:

• Maine Coon: exceeding one meter (39.37") in length and can weigh up to 10 kg (22 lb).
• Selkirk Rex: with an average of 30 cm (11.81) at the withers and can weigh up to 7 kg (15.4 lb).
• Ragdoll: measures more than 35 cm (13.7") and can weigh more than 9 kg (19.8 lb).
• Ragamuffin: measures 25 cm (9.8") at the withers and can weigh up to 13 kg (28.7 lb).
• Bengal: some males can exceed 9 kg (19.8 lb).
• Highlander: can weigh more than 9 kg (19.8 lb).
• Brazilian Shorthair: usually exceeds 10 kg (22 lb) of weight.
• Turkish Van: measures around 30 cm (11.8") at the withers and weighs up to 9 kg (19.8 lb).
• Norwegian Forest Cat: noted for being especially hairy and exceeds 7 kg (15.4 lb).
• Chausie: measures 50 cm (19.69") and weighs up to 12 kg (26.5 lb).
• British Shorthair: measures 30 cm (11.81") at the withers and weighs up to 8 kg (17.6 lb).
• British Longhair: reaches 35 cm (13.78") to the cross and weighs up to 7 kg (15.4 lb).

Keep reading if you want to know more about these 12 large house cat breeds.

As we know, the Maine Coon cat is largest house cat breed in the world. This breed originated in the state of Maine, United States. Some say that the word ‘coon’’was derived from the word ‘racoon’. This name refers back to an old myth which surrounds the Maine Coon, claiming that this breed is actually a hybrid between wild cat and racoon. This is perhaps because they resemble each other in the dark

A male Maine Coon can reach 70 cm in length, even longer if we count the tail. It can weigh more than 22 lb or 10 kg. This amazing size reveals an affectionate, sociable and playful animal, with distinguished ability to meowing in different tones. In addition, the Maine coon usually likes water, partially thanks to its waterproof mantle. The Maine coon is considered an excellent cat for families with children.

Learn about the common diseases in Main Coon cats with our relate guide.

Image: taringa.net

The Selkirk Rex cat, which can weight over 15 lb (7 kg) when an adult, makes the list of 12 very large cat breeds. This breed has a robust body, with well-developed muscles. The Selkirk Rex stands out not only for their physical texture, but also for their long, wavy hair. In many countries, it is popularly known as ‘the Poodle cat’, this is precisely because of its fur, which requires periodic brushing to avoid knots.

Image: telegraf.rs

The large Ragdoll cat breed is a result of various crosses between other breeds like the Persian, Siamese and Burmese cat breeds. A Ragdoll is usually even tempered, but they can be somewhat sleepy. Ragdolls have a strong need for companionship since these beautiful cats do not like solitude. They should not be adopted by anyone who cannot devote sufficient time to them.

One of the main Ragdoll characteristics is that they have a long adolescence, meaning it takes them up to three years to complete their development and reach adulthood. When they do mature, they do so intensely. A male ragdoll can exceed 35 cm (13.7") length and weigh up to 9 kg (19.8 lb).

If you are considering adopting this breed, you may want to know more about common health problems of Ragdoll cat.

Image: reddit.com

Like the Ragdoll cat, the Ragamuffin also has a very long adolescence, which usually last between 2 and 3 years. This large cat breed can also live up to 18 years, which is very long when converted to human years. This cat’s character is more sociable, playful and active than the Ragdoll. This can help their adaptation to living in a new family or home. This cat breed is also an excellent companion for children, usually being gentle with others.

An adult male Ragamuffin has a tall, robust body and can weigh up to 28.7 lb (13 kg) without developing symptoms of obesity. A very characteristic feature of this breed is that its head is usually larger than the rest of its body. These sizes make it clear why the ragamuffin makes it on this list of large cat breeds you can adopt.

Image: ragamuffinkittens.co.uk

Following our list of top 12 biggest house cat breeds, we present the Bengal. This giant cat breed is native to the Unites States and is easily recognizable by its fur, similar to that of a leopard.

The Bengal cat normally weighs at an average of 11-13 lb (5-6 kg). However, some males have reached over 19.8 lb (9 kg), breaking records for the breed. The Bengal breed is known for its hyperactivity and unlimited curiosity. They love to play and socialize with other individuals. They are generally loving and sociable cats. They are also known for being a particularly intelligent cat breed.

Take a look at our article on what is the origin of the Bengal cat to learn more about this beautiful large domestic cat.

The Highlander cat is perhaps best known for its large eyes and curved ears. These characteristics are a result of a cross between the American curl breed and wild lynxes. The result of this mix was a feline of remarkable dimensions, generally weighing more than 19.8 lb (9 kg) as an adult. If its size can scare some, its character conquers many. It is a docile cat that is very playful and affectionate. This large house cat breed needs a positive environment and adequate amounts of affection in order not to suffer from symptoms of stress.

The Brazilian Shorthair cat breed descends from the stray cats of Brazil and was only recognized very recently. Perhaps this is why it is still difficult to establish aesthetic and behavioral parameters for these vivacious felines. What stands out is that this cat is large. A Brazilian with short hair can weigh more than 22 lb (10 kg) without presenting symptoms of being overweight.

As its name suggests, this breed is native to the surroundings of Lake Van, which is located in Turkey. In its natural habitat, it was originally exposed to hot summers and harsh winters. This is why these felines developed an impressive adaptive capacity to various environments.

The Turkish Van is not a very tall cat breed, but they are incredibly robust. These cats can easily weigh up to 17.6 lb (8 kg) as adults. In addition to being very vocal, they also carry certain peculiarities such as enjoying water. It is not uncommon to see a Turkish Van cat playing with the faucet or even trying to get in the bath with us.

For those who like the idea of adopting a big house cat like the Turkish Van, it must be known that this is a dominant breed. These cats need a lot of attention and need to be well socialized correctly in order to get on well with other cats. Ideally, you should start socializing this breed from when they are 8 weeks old. Learn more about how to socialize cats with our related guide.

Image: metro.co.uk

The Norwegian Forest Cat stands out for its abundant and thick fur, which allowed for its survival in the extreme cold of its original Scandinavian homeland. This Norwegian cat is incredibly sturdy and they can weigh up to 19.8 lb (9 kg) as adults, but they are not very tall. Norwegian forest cats are listed as endemic in Norway, but they have now traveled further afield. They are still not common outside of Europe.

Image: purrspurrsmeow.blogspot.com.es

This big domestic cat breed is known as the Chausie and resembles a wild puma. This is not only thanks to its appearance, but also because of its keen hunting instinct and abundant energy. Chausies require a lot of physical activity, mental stimulation and socialization. An adult male Chausie can reach up to 19.8 lb (9 kg in weight), hence why it has made it onto our list of 12 biggest house cat breeds.

Learn more about a cat's hunting instinct and behavior with our related guide.

The British Shorthair is the oldest feline breed of English origin. Like most cats from cold climates, it stands out for its abundantly thick coat. They are excellent hunters and are owners of a docile and sociable character. This characteristic allows them to get along well with other cats and dogs. An adult male of this breed can weighs between 15.4-17.6 lb (7-8 kg).

Image: dailytelegraph.com.au and catshowbook.wordpress.com

This breed is younger than its shorthair relative and are also much more robust. A British Longhair male cat with long adult hair usually weighs more than 19.8 lb (9 kg). Its long fur, which was previously considered a standard deviation from the British feline family, is currently an admired aesthetic feature.

If you have one of the biggest house cat breeds in the world, share your experiences and photos in the comments. You can also do the same if you think you have a larger breed than any we have shared here.

Image: @jarsenau YouTube

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