While the average house cat weighs between 5 to 9 pounds, the biggest house cat breed can get four times heavier.
Twenty-five pounds and more can be considered a healthy weight for these cat breeds.
These cats don’t just grow taller, they extend lengthwise too. On average, a house cat will be 23 to 46 cm long while the longest cats are 100 cm and longer. When you consider big house cats based on their height, in comparison to the standard 23 to 25 cm tall, large cats can grow over 40 cm vertically.
Big House Cat Breeds
Burmese
Some cat breeds look like an average house cat but they are loads heavier. One perfect example are Burmese cats which have a normal weight of around 8 to 12 pounds. They thrive with cat companions so it’s best to get them by two’s. Burmese cats are soft-spoken creatures who also love to be surrounded by people.
Egyptian Mau
Weighing as much as Burmese cats, the Egyptian Mau stand out when it comes to cleanliness. They are highly keen on hygiene and will fuss in filthy living conditions. Make sure that high places like shelves are kept tidy and durable as these bigger cats love to perch.
The Egyptian Mau likes peace and quiet. While it is shy, it is also a loyal cat. Among the breeds of huge house cats, the Egyptian Mau is one of the few that are low maintenance since it has a short coat. However, it gets cold easily so it’s best to keep them indoors.
Siberian
If you live in a place with a cold climate, it is best to opt for a cat that can withstand the elements. The Siberian cat has a semi-long, snow-white thick coat that can keep it warm in the winter. Then, its coat grows light and short in the warm months. More hair also requires more brushing several times a week than the average house cat.
Siberian cats are playful from the kitten stage to adulthood. They are close to their cat guardians and love to entertain. Intelligent creatures, they satisfy their curiosity by solving obstacles they may encounter.
Maine Coon
Fun fact: The longest domestic cat recorded is an over-4-feet-long Maine Coon named Stewie. This type of cat is the official cat of the state of Maine, U.S. The Maine Coon is a highly-sociable cat that is not picky with the people it associates with. They also love to play tricks including fetch.
Often noted as the
biggest domestic house cat breed
, the Maine Coon has a high risk of becoming overweight. It also sheds thick, glossy hair often. A high-maintenance house cat, becoming its cat guardian means ensuring it has proper diet, regular exercise, and brushing at least once a week.
American Bobtail
This cat breed weighs anywhere between 7 to 16 pounds. Like most cat breeds, male cats tend to weigh more than female cats. Some American Bobtail cats have a short coat while others have medium-long hair. Light brushing once a week and an occasional bath will keep them happy.
Generally optimistic cats, the American Bobtail loves to goof around and entertain their cat guardians. It is a lovely house cat for families as they are friendly with all ages. This cat breed is not the clingy type. They love to socialize with all members of the family including guests as well as other pets.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Massive is one word to describe this adorable feline that grows double or triple the size of an average house cat, making it a perfect example of giant cat breeds. While they love to look outside, they actually prefer to be indoors.
They are quite moody and sensitive cats. The Norwegian Forest Cat can be sociable when they want and make friends only when they’re up for it.
Norwegian Forest cats have shedding phases several times throughout the year. During this time, their semi-long hair needs a good brushing once or twice a week. Rarely do they need a bath. Frequent bathing is not advisable as they have a long, waterproof coat.
Persian
Another cat breed that is particular about those it associates with is the Persian cat. It is said to be a favorite cat breed of Queen Victoria. With that, it is not unusual that Persian cats thrive in a quiet and relaxed home. These large cats require a bath at least once a month and regular brushing as they tend to shed a lot.
Ragamuffin
If you’re the type who loves to stay indoors and desire a cat on your lap, the Ragamuffin is the perfect cat breed for you. They are indoor cats that love to rest in the arms of their cat parent. Their soft coat will remind you of a large stuffed toy. The cat will be content sitting on your lap while you work on a quiet hobby. Do note that male Ragamuffin cats can get as heavy as 20 pounds.
Ragdoll
Another cat that loves to cuddle is the Canadian-bred cat that falls comfortably in the arms of its owner just like a ragdoll. It is friendly and will let almost anyone carry it, including children. However, they are heavy cats weighing up to 20 pounds even for female Ragdoll cats. Its coat gets tangled a lot too so proper grooming is necessary especially under the armpits.
Chausie
This cat breed is mentioned last because it does not typically thrive in a home environment. These heavy cats can get up to 30 pounds and also grow quite long. But, it’s not their measurements that make them a challenge to raise at home.
The Chausie cat is not the type of cat you can leave alone for long periods. While some heavy cats cuddle, sit by the window, and perch on the fridge, Chausie cats are highly-energetic cats. Choosing this type of cat requires commitment to providing mental and physical stimulation. In turn, they are loyal and develop a strong bond with their cat guardian.
Can Showing Affection to My Cat Affect Their Behavior or Size?
Showing affection to your feline friend can positively impact their behavior. Cats that receive regular love and attention tend to be more social, playful, and loving. However, showing affection to your cat does not directly affect their size, as this is mostly determined by genetics and diet.
Wrap Up
If you liken these
biggest house cat breeds
to giant stuffed animals, you would pair perfectly with the Ragdoll and Ragamuffin. If you prefer a more sociable cat for a home that sees a lot of people, go for a Maine Coon or an American Bobtail. Do you have a large house cat at home? What is her breed? We’d love to get to know you and your feline buddy.
If you enjoyed this article, check out the one we wrote
on cat breeds with big ears!
