Size might not be everything, but for some cat breeds, it’s definitely part of their charm. Whether it’s the luxuriously fluffy Maine Coon or the sleek and powerful Bengal, these large domestic cats combine striking looks with majestic statuesque figures.
Here’s a closer look at some of the world’s biggest pet cat breeds.
World’s biggest pet cat breeds
Maine Coon
With a robust build and muscular body, the Maine Coon is known as the “gentle giant” of the cat world. It is considered to be the largest domestic cat breed, with a substantial build and distinctive fluffy coats.
Did you know? Because of the hip problems common in this breed, the Maine Coon is named as one of the unhealthiest cat breeds.
Average weight: 4-10kg
Average length: 50-81cm
Norwegian forest cat
Believed to share a common ancestor with the Maine Coon, the Norwegian forest cat has a similarly dramatic, fluffy appearance. Having evolved from the harsh climates of Norway, this breed is big and well built, with a solid body and tufted coat. Their large ears have lynx-like tufts at the tip, one of their defining characteristics.
Did you know? A veterinary surgeon named the Norwegian forest cat as one of the healthiest cat breeds.
Average weight: 4-8kg
Average length: 30-45cm
Ragdoll cat
The ragdoll is a large, semi-longhaired cat with blue eyes – making it one of the most beautiful cat breeds. Its muscular body is paired with a large, bushy, tapered tail. The ragdoll takes about four years to reach its mature size.
Average weight: 3.5-9kg
Average length: 45-55cm
Siberian cat
Also known as the Siberian forest cat, the majestic Siberian is strong and powerfully built – and can appear even larger than they actually are because of their thick weatherproof coat. The Siberian is one of the hypoallergenic cat breeds, great for people with allergies.
Average weight: 4.5-9kg
Average length: 38-45cm
Turkish Van cat
Known as the “swimming cat”, the Turkish van is a semi-longhaired breed that originates from the Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey – where the climate is hugely variable. As a result, its coat changes significantly throughout the year: short in summer, and noticeably thicker in the winter. The breed is large and muscular, with strength and power in its body and legs.
Average weight: 4.8-9kg
Average length: 35-45cm
Bengal cat
The Bengal is a medium to large cat, smaller than others on this list but also remaining one of the bigger cat breeds. They might not look as big as other long-haired breeds, but underneath their short coat they are still large, muscular cats. Bengals are similar in appearance to their wild ancestors, with sleek, long bodies and powerful legs.
Average weight: 3.5-7kg
Average length: 35-45cm
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