Top 10 Largest Domestic Cat Breeds

Cats come in all sizes, from miniature kitties to surprisingly big ones, so we compiled a list of 10 of the largest domestic cat breeds. More to love, hug, and snuggle, these breeds, like all others, make wonderful companions, so maybe you want to welcome one of these larger-than-average felines into your household. Talk about having a mini panther or tiger walking around!

In many ways, large cat breeds are the same as any other feline breed. However, they can be unique in some ways as well, so there are several things to consider before deciding if you want to go with a larger breed rather than a smaller one when you are ready to add a cat to your family.

First, consider that the bigger the cat, the more space she will need. So, as an example, if you are living in a small apartment, ask yourself if a large kitty would be a smart addition, or if it would be wiser to go with a breed that’s smaller in size and would feel more comfortable in a small home. Also, regardless of the size of your house, think about whether or not you have the room available to give your kitty a large enough cat tree, cat bed, scratcher, etc.

Secondly, consider a breed’s energy level and need for physical activity and exercise. Again, the larger the cat, the more room she’ll need, but if she also has a lot of energy to expend, you’ll want to be sure that you can provide her with the space to run, climb, and play with a variety of toys too.

Finally, it’s a good idea to think about the grooming requirements of a large cat. For example, a kitty with a longer and fuller coat may need some extra help from you when it comes to keeping all of that fur soft and smooth. If you don’t have the time to brush your pet often, a breed that would require less grooming is probably the better way to go.

Generally, the following breeds can make excellent pets. Some of these kitties have shaggy fur or are super fluffy, some are extra cuddly, and some have loads of energy and require a lot of attention. So, in addition to their large frame, strong muscles, and impressive size, don’t forget to think about things like their grooming needs, dietary needs, and personality as well.

Side note: Don’t forget that you can find purebred kitties at rescues and in shelters, so if you are ready to bring one of these cats home, consider adopting rather than shopping so you can save a life.

1. Norwegian Forest Cat

Starting off our list of the largest feline breeds is the Norwegian Forest Cat, which is one of those iconic breeds that never fails to grab people’s attention. Hailing from Norway, these social kitties boast a beautiful coat that’s actually water-resistant. And because they grow slowly, it could take five years for them to reach full size. Once grown, these big kitties can weigh more than 20 pounds.

There are many reasons why the Norwegian Forest Cat is such a popular breed. Sure, they’re stunning kitties, but they also have a wonderful personality, and they’re known for being playful, friendly towards children and other pets, intelligent, docile, and affectionate toward their owners. If you’re in search of a large cat that will be outgoing and active, this might be the breed for you. (Photo credit: Elisa Putti/Shutterstock)

1. Maine Coon

You knew the Maine Coon would make this list, right? Possibly the most well known of the largest domestic cat breeds, a gorgeous Maine Coon can weigh, on average, up to 18 pounds, but some can even weigh more than 20 pounds. Plus, these kitties are known for the length of their body. And you can’t overlook this breed’s coat, which is described as silky, shaggy, and heavy. Some find that the coat gives these cats a “wild” appearance, especially when combined with their large size.

These gentle giants are muscular, hardy, playful, and friendly kitties who make devoted pets. They love being around people, and they’re also intelligent and independent, so it’s no wonder that they’re one of the most popular breeds. If you’re thinking about adding one of these incredible cats to your family, you can expect that they’ll enjoy being around you as much as possible. (Photo credit: alexavol/Shutterstock)

1. Ragdoll

Another popular large breed is the Ragdoll, which is aptly named because these kitties love to just go limp when they’re in your arms so they can be totally relaxed. They make wonderful pets because they are easygoing and enjoy snuggles with people. Work on those biceps, though, as holding these hefty felines can be tough after a while—they can weigh, on average, 10 to 20 pounds.

Intelligent Ragdolls definitely steal the show when they walk into a room. Their silky coat and bright eyes (many have beautiful blue eyes) make them appear elegant, but they also have an affectionate and laid-back personality as well. They will gladly spend time with you, and they can be a good choice if you’re looking for a kitty who will get along well with other kids and other pets. (Photo credit: Light Hound Pictures/Shutterstock)

1. Siberian

Siberian cats are known for their personality and their size. These sweet kitties, like so many other large breeds on this list, enjoy cuddling with their humans, and they’re also smart and playful. These felines can weigh 25+ pounds. And they sport a beautiful coat that is one of the distinct features of this breed—you simply won’t be able to resist petting this kitty.

The Siberian can make an excellent pet, with its affectionate and playful demeanor. These cats love being around their human family, they are known for being quite talkative, and you shouldn’t be surprised if your Siberian likes to play with water too. (Photo credit: fantom_rd/Shutterstock)

1. Ragamuffin

Yet another popular big breed is the Ragamuffin. These adorable cats have a calm personality, making them perfect family pets. They’re also intelligent and love having fun, and they prefer being around people. When one of these fur babies is lying in your lap, though, you’ll really feel it, as they can weigh up to 20 pounds.

In addition to their majestic appearance, these cats, like Ragdolls, also like to go limp when you hold them. They are docile, affectionate, not too vocal or too active, and adaptable. The kittens are white but their coats change as they mature, and because they are slow to mature, they won’t reach full physical maturity until they are around 4 years old. (Photo credit: Zanna Pesnina/Shutterstock)

1. Turkish Van

Featuring a big and heavy body, no list of the largest domestic cat breeds would be complete without including the attractive Turkish Van. On average, these kitties can weigh up to 20 pounds, and they’re active, loyal, and loving pets that like attention. Many of them even like water, which is why this breed is often referred to as the “swimming cat.” In fact, from a faucet to a fountain, if there’s water to be looked at or touched with a paw, the Turkish Van will likely be right there.

The Turkish Van is also known for having a lot of energy, and for being talkative, outgoing, smart, friendly, and playful. They do need a lot of attention and they get attached, so that’s definitely something to keep in mind before bringing one into your family. (Photo credit: Vadim Petrakov/Shutterstock)

1. Chausie

A hybrid of the Jungle Cat and the Abyssinian, the Chausie is what you might call a huge cat, as these felines can weigh up to 30 pounds. These athletic and energetic kitties are also known for their long bodies, as well as their playful and loving personality.

You can’t help but feel a sense of awe when you spot a Chausie. Majestic, powerful, and so big, they have a unique and exotic appearance. Their coat is not bushy like some other big breeds; instead, it is smooth and accentuates their athletic build. Overall, you might find that you immediately fall for these amazing cats. (Photo credit: Tania_Wild/Shutterstock)

1. British Shorthair

The stocky British Shorthair is a quiet and sweet breed that doesn’t demand much, thanks to its independent personality. These cats are known for their round features, but they are also rather large. They weigh, on average, up to 18 pounds.

If you are looking for a cuddly and affectionate furry friend that won’t be too needy or active, it’s certainly worth considering the British Shorthair. These cats are known for being friendly toward kids and other pets, as well as devoted to their humans, but they aren’t known for being the best lap cats. Nevertheless, when shown loads of love, these calm felines recognize it and give it right back to the people they bond with. (Photo credit: Tatyana Maximova/Shutterstock)

1. Pixie-Bob

The unique Pixie-Bob looks like a miniature bobcat (hence, its name), but it’s a large cat among domestic felines, as these kitties can weigh up to 17 pounds or more, on average. If you’re looking for a pet that will be playful, loving, fun, and social, the Pixie-Bob won’t disappoint.

Of course, this breed’s appearance is a true attention-grabber, but what makes these kitties truly special is their personality. These cats are described as social, active, playful, loving, and smart. They like people, they get along with other pets and with kids, and they’re quiet too. One thing to keep in mind is that they aren’t too independent, and they do get attached to their human family, so they do need quite a bit of attention. (Photo credit: Happysnapper2/Shutterstock)

1. Bengal

Bengals look like little wild cats, and they’re also larger than other domestic feline breeds. Featuring a long, lean physique and weighing, on average, up to 18 pounds, these curious, intelligent, confident, and playful cats prefer being a part of the family.

Besides their exotic look, these cats also have a distinct character as well. Described as high-energy, athletic, and highly intelligent, these are beautiful kitties that are going to need to release their energy in positive ways through exercise and play. When they aren’t busy having fun with you and making you laugh, these affectionate felines enjoy spending time with you because they are loyal. And this is yet another big breed that likes water too. No day is dull when you have a Bengal beside you. (Photo credit: EZvereva/Shutterstock)