The 10 Largest Domesticated Cat Breeds You'll Love to Meet

If you’re looking for a large cat breed to share your home with, look no further. Here’s all you need to know about some of the biggest domesticated cat breeds around. They might not rival a tiger or leopard, but you may be surprised just how big some of these breeds get.

1. Maine Coon

One of the largest breeds around, and increasingly popular thanks to their friendly nature. These gentle giants can reach 40 inches in length and weigh around 10kg. As a truly domesticated breed (not crossed with a wild cat), their temperament is well suited to family life. Their long fur plus their size means a lot of grooming.

2. Norwegian Forest Cat

Beautiful long-haired cats first bred in Norway, similar to the Maine Coon but usually a little smaller (6–7kg, around 10 inches tall). Friendly, playful, loyal and intelligent, in almost any coat colour and pattern imaginable.

3. Savannah

There’s debate over whether Savannahs count as fully domesticated, as they’re a cross between a domestic cat and the African Serval. Big cats — often around 12kg and 17 inches tall — with large ears and leopard-like markings. Their closeness to wild cats means they don’t always make the best pets.

4. Ragdoll

Named for going floppy when picked up, Ragdolls are affectionate and docile with light coats, darker “points” and blue eyes. Males can weigh up to 9kg. They make great family pets.

5. Ragamuffin

Closely related to the Ragdoll and similar in looks, though often with larger, rounder eyes. They share the affectionate, friendly temperament and larger-than-average size.

6. Chausie

Another breed with a wild ancestor — the Jungle Cat. Most are many generations removed and have a domesticated personality despite a wild look. Active and demanding, they can weigh over 11kg and reach 17–18 inches.

7. Siberian

A large, semi-longhaired breed (7–8kg, up to 11 inches) resembling Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest cats. Intelligent, playful and affectionate — a great family choice.

8. Bengal

Exotic, leopard-like cats, larger than the average moggie (around 6kg, some larger). Muscular, playful, intelligent and athletic — they love company and need plenty of attention.

9. Persian

Actually one of the smaller breeds here (4–5kg) but still larger than most. Their distinctive flat face can predispose them to breathing difficulties and other health conditions. Affectionate and relatively laid-back.

10. Turkish Van

An uncommon large breed with a white body and colour restricted to the head, ears and tail. Semi-longhaired, 6–7kg (males up to 9kg), muscular and active, with an intelligent, mischievous personality.

Summary

These are some of the biggest domesticated cats around — some better suited to pet life than others. Remember a large cat needs larger supplies: a big bed, a taller scratching post and a bigger carrier. And whatever you choose, size isn’t everything — plenty of ordinary moggies have larger-than-life personalities.

By Gemma Cliffin BSc BVSc MRCVS

18 March 2024

Gemma is a practising veterinary surgeon with a strong interest in small-animal medicine and preventative care. She enjoys helping pet parents understand the science behind everyday pet-health questions.