Largest Cat Breeds: Ten Giants and What It Takes to Own One

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Some people want a cat that fills a lap, and then some. The largest domestic cat breeds are majestic, often gentle and sometimes surprisingly casual about their size. They are also expensive to feed, need sturdy gear and take years to grow up. This guide introduces ten of the largest breeds and explains what it takes to share a home with a giant.

Ten large cat breeds

1. Maine Coon. Often called the gentle giant, with a shaggy coat, tufted ears and a bushy tail. Males commonly weigh 13 to 18 pounds, and some are larger. See the Maine Coon profile.

2. Ragdoll. Big, plush and floppy, with males reaching 15 to 20 pounds. See the Ragdoll profile and Maine Coon vs Ragdoll.

3. Norwegian Forest Cat. A sturdy, long-legged cat with a waterproof double coat. See the Norwegian Forest Cat profile.

4. Siberian. Powerful, athletic and fluffy, with a triple coat. See the Siberian profile.

5. Savannah. Tall, lean hybrid cats whose size varies by generation. See the Savannah profile and Bengal vs Savannah.

6. Ragamuffin. A relative of the Ragdoll, with a similar large frame and easygoing character. See the Ragamuffin profile.

7. Turkish Van. Muscular and energetic, famous for liking water. See the Turkish Van profile.

8. Chausie. A tall, athletic cat with a wild look, developed from jungle cats. See the Chausie profile.

9. British Shorthair. Not as long as a Maine Coon, but very solid and heavy, with males often reaching 12 to 17 pounds. See the British Shorthair profile.

10. Persian and Exotic types are medium to large and stocky but not usually as tall. The Persian is included here as a heavy-coated breed rather than a record-breaker.

What is large?

Cat size can be measured in length, height and weight. A Maine Coon may be the longest, while a Savannah may be the tallest. A British Shorthair may be heavy for its frame. Some cats are big because they are overweight, which is a health risk, not a breed trait. Judge condition by body shape, not the number on the scale. See how to help an overweight cat lose weight.

Slow growth

Many giant breeds take three to five years to reach full size. Kittens grow fast in the first year, then slow down. Feed a complete kitten food and keep the body lean, since fast growth can stress joints. See kitten growth and development week by week and kitten feeding schedule.

Practical needs

• Litter box. Choose a large, open or high-sided box, since many cats prefer a box one and a half times their length. See litter box types compared.
• Cat tree. Choose a sturdy model with a wide base, and thick perches. See how to choose a cat tree.
• Carrier. A big carrier, and training. See carrier training a cat.
• Food. Large cats eat more, which adds to cost. See how much should I feed my cat.
• Grooming. Many large breeds have long coats. See grooming longhaired cats.

Health concerns

Large breeds can be prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia and arthritis, and weight puts extra strain on joints. See hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats and arthritis in cats. Choose breeders who screen for heart disease and joint problems.

Personality

Many big breeds are famous for gentle, social temperaments, though the Savannah and Chausie are intense and energetic. Meet adult cats of the breed if you can. See best cat breeds for families.

Boarding, travel and insurance for big cats

Bigger cats can be harder to move and house. Check the weight limit of any carrier, and look for models that open from the top. Some boarding facilities and airlines have size limits, so ask in advance. Medication doses are based on weight, so costs can rise with size. Insurance policies are usually priced by breed and age, and some large breeds cost more because of heart and joint risks, so compare plans carefully before you need one.

Is a giant cat right for you?

Be honest about space, budget and strength. A twenty-pound cat is heavy to lift into a carrier or onto a vet table, and it can knock over shelves and lamps when it leaps. Check that your floors, furniture and cat trees can take the weight, and budget for food that may cost twice as much as for a small cat. In return, many large breeds are patient, social and good with families.

When to see a vet

Have your cat checked for weight, heart and joints as it matures. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.