In the world of domesticated animals, cats reign supreme. And of all the different types of cats, none are more popular than the big cats. These massive kitties are often the subject of internet memes and YouTube videos, and it’s easy to see why—they’re absolutely adorable! But which breed is the biggest of them all? Read on to find out.
The Maine Coon
Maine Coons are one of North America’s most popular cat breeds, and it’s not hard to see why. They’re large, loving, and relatively low-maintenance (compared to, say, a dog). Males can weigh up to 18 pounds, making them one of the giant domesticated cat breeds in the world. Females are typically smaller, weighing in at around 12 pounds. Maine Coons are also known for their long fur, which requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles.
The Ragdoll
Ragdolls are another large breed of domestic cat, with males typically weighing between 15 and 20 pounds. Females are usually smaller, between 10 and 15 pounds. Ragdolls get their name from their relaxed personalities—they’re known for being calm, gentle, and even-tempered. They’re also one of the few cat breeds that enjoy being held and cuddled, making them great pets for families with young children.
The Savannah
Savannahs are a relatively new breed of domestic cats—they were only recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2001. Despite their relatively recent origins, they’re already one of the largest domesticated cat breeds in the world. Male Savannahs can weigh up to 25 pounds, while females typically fall somewhere between 10 and 15 pounds. Savannahs are also known for their high energy levels and playful dispositions—they love climbing, jumping, and playing fetch (yes, you read that right).
Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a large, rugged breed well-suited to cold climates. They were originally bred in Norway (hence the name) to hunt rodents and other small animals. Today, they’re popular pets all over the world. Males can weigh up to 16 pounds, while females typically fall between 10 and 12 pounds.
Siberian Cat
Siberian Cats are another large, sturdy breed that hails from a cold climate (you guessed it—Siberia). They’re known for their thick fur coats, which help to keep them warm in even the harshest of winters. Males can weigh up to 20 pounds, while females typically fall between 10 and 15 pounds.
Chausie
The Chausie is a relatively new breed of domestic cat that was created by crossing Jungle Cats with domesticated cats. As you might expect, they’re larger than most other domesticated breeds—males can weigh up to 20 pounds. In comparison, females typically fall between 11 and 16 pounds. Chausies are also known for their high energy levels and love climbing and jumping.
Persian Cat
Persian Cats are one of the most popular cat breeds in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. They’re beautiful, with their long fur and distinctive faces. But they’re also the smallest of the bigger breeds of cats. Males typically weigh between 9 and 12 pounds, while females usually fall between 6 and 10 pounds.
Size Meets Friendliness
The fact is this: most large domestic cat breeds are the friendliest. They are more apt to want to sit in your lap and cuddle and also love to play. So if you’re looking for a giant, friendly feline companion, any of these breeds would be a great choice.
