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Certain large cat breeds, like the Maine Coon, are often referred to as "gentle giants." Others, with their wildcat lineage, can be more challenging to handle. Ekaterina Vasileva-Bagler / Getty ImagesCats have captivated humans for millennia; in 2004, archaeologists unearthed a cat buried alongside a 9,500-year-old human skeleton in Cyprus. The largest cat breeds evoke memories of their wild forebears, ranging from descendants of the African serval to miniature versions of bobcats.
Anyone who has attempted to move one of the biggest domestic cat breeds off the couch understands their immense personalities and even larger hearts. Before bringing one of these sizable feline breeds into your home, ensure you’ve done thorough research to provide the perfect forever home for these majestic companions.
10. Pixiebob
Pixiebob cats. Nynke van Holten / ShutterstockAs stated by The International Cat Association (TICA), "the aim of the Pixiebob breeding initiative is to produce a domestic cat that visually resembles the North American Bobcat."
Similar to wild bobcats (Lynx rufus), the Pixiebob features a short tail and spotted coat. While a true bobcat can reach up to 40 pounds (18.1 kg), the Pixiebob is a medium-to-large breed, tipping the scales at up to 17 pounds (7.7 kg).
According to TICA, Pixiebobs are excellent companions and exhibit "a doglike level of loyalty."
9. British Shorthair
British Shorthair. Carlos G. Lopez / Getty ImagesKnown for its round face and sturdy build, the British Shorthair stands as one of the most recognizable cat breeds globally. Males of this breed are particularly large, with weights ranging from 10 to 18 pounds (4.5 to 8.2 kg).
While the "blue" (gray) British Shorthair is the most well-known, this breed comes in a variety of colors. A longhaired variant also exists, created through crossbreeding with Persian cats.
As one of the oldest recognized cat breeds, the British Shorthair has a rich history. TICA notes that British Shorthairs trace their lineage back to cats brought to Britain by the Romans during their invasion in 43 C.E. Known for their temperament, these cats are typically serene and self-reliant.
8. Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest Cat. Feifei Cui-Paoluzzo / Getty ImagesIf you admire the large, fluffy appearance of the Maine Coon but desire a slightly smaller cat, the Norwegian Forest Cat could be your ideal match. (Explore more about Maine Coons vs. Norwegian Forest Cats).
Referred to as skogkatt
Norwegian Forest Cats mature slowly, often taking up to five years to reach full adulthood. When fully grown, males can weigh between 16 to 20 pounds (7.3 to 9.1 kg).
7. Siberian
Siberian cat. Agency Animal Picture / Getty ImagesSimilar to Norwegian Forest Cats and Maine Coons, Siberian cats (also called Siberian Forest Cats) possess a thick, water-repellent coat and ruffs to shield them from the severe winters of their homeland. They also mature slowly, taking up to five years, and can weigh as much as 20 pounds (9.1 kg).
As per TICA, Siberians are clever and loving cats, known for their affectionate demeanor.
6. Turkish Van
Turkish Van. Jupiterimages / Getty ImagesThe Turkish Van is a sizable cat breed, with males reaching up to 20 pounds (9.1 kg), renowned for its distinctive markings. Its fur is predominantly white, with colored patches on its tail, around its eyes, and occasionally on its shoulders.
As noted by TICA, Turkish Vans are lively and have a fondness for water. Their name is believed to originate from Lake Van, Turkey's largest lake.
The breed standard highlights that "the cat's strength and power are evident in its robust body and muscular legs."
The Selkirk Rex, also called the "poodle cat," is the latest breed recognized by the International Cat Association, the American Cat Fanciers Association, and the Cat Fanciers' Association. Its curly coat, resulting from a genetic mutation, gives it its unique name.
5. RagaMuffin
Ragamuffin. Amazing Arts Store / ShutterstockAs stated by the RagaMuffin Associated Group, RagaMuffins were created in the 1990s by breeding various Cherubim cats, a group that includes the well-known Ragdoll Cat.
The breed standard describes the RagaMuffin as "a sizable breed" (reaching up to 20 pounds or 9.1 kg), "muscular and sturdy with a fatty pad on the lower belly." Their long, silky fur further enhances their imposing appearance.
4. Ragdoll
Ragdoll cat. Cyndi Monaghan / Getty ImagesIf you desire a large yet affectionate cat breed, the Ragdoll might be perfect for you. TICA describes the Ragdoll as "one of the largest breeds in the cat fancy," with adult males often weighing between 15 to 20 pounds (6.8 to 9.1 kg).
Ragdoll Cats rank among the most beloved cat breeds. In 2022, the Cat Fancier Association crowned the Ragdoll the top breed for the fourth consecutive year. Known for their relaxed temperament, silky fur, and distinctive "pointed" patterns, Ragdolls are as charming as they are sizable.
Similar to Siamese Cats, Ragdolls frequently exhibit darker coloring on their faces, paws, and tails.
3. Savannah Cat
Savannah cat. Kolomenskaya Kseniya / ShutterstockSavannah cats are a topic of debate due to their hybrid nature, stemming from the crossbreeding of a wild serval (Leptailurus serval) with a domestic cat. Although TICA recognizes them as a domestic breed, Savannah Cats are prohibited in certain regions.
Potential pet owners should carefully consider the challenges before adopting a Savannah cat. Their wildcat traits can make them more demanding to care for compared to typical domestic cats.
In 2021, Guinness World Records recognized Fenrir, a Savannah cat measuring 18.83 inches (47.83 cm), as the tallest living domestic cat. His brother Arcturus, the tallest cat ever recorded, stood at 19.05 inches (48.39 cm) and weighed 30 pounds (13.6 kg). While Savannah Cats can grow quite large, they usually weigh between 12 to 25 pounds (5.4 to 11.3 kg).
2. Chausie
Chausie. Wirestock Creators / ShutterstockThe Chausie is a domestic breed originating from the wild jungle cat (Felis chaus). According to the breed standard, Chausies are characterized by their height, long legs, deep chest, and tufted ears reminiscent of their wild forebears. While an average adult male Chausie weighs around 15 pounds (6.8 kg), they can reach up to 26 pounds (11.8 kg).
These sizable domestic cats can be quite a handful. Prospective Chausie owners should be aware that these felines can leap up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) high.
1. Maine Coon
Maine Coon. Alexandra Jursova / Getty ImagesThe Maine Coon stands as the largest cat breed globally. Adult males can exceed 30 pounds (13.6 kg), solidifying the Maine Coon's reputation as the biggest domestic cat breed worldwide.
As per Britannica, the Maine Coon is the sole native longhaired cat breed in North America. The term "coon" is believed to derive from its bushy tail, which resembles that of a raccoon.
The Guinness World Record for the longest domestic cat ever was set by Mymains Stewart Gilligan, measuring 48.5 inches (123 cm) in 2010. Additionally, a Maine Coon holds the record for the longest tail on a domestic cat at 17.58 inches (44.66 cm), recorded in 2016.
"The title 'gentle giant' suits them perfectly," shares Sandra Cagain, owner of the Orlando Cat Café, in an email interview with Mytour. "My two Maine Coons, each weighing 20 pounds (9 kilograms), are the most affectionate and well-behaved cats I've ever owned. They are incredibly gentle, never misuse their claws, and are always willing to be picked up and cuddled — even if they might prefer otherwise."
