The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that more than 58 million households in the U.S. have a cat. With a wide variety of breeds available, many cat owners select their feline companions based on size. While small cats have their undeniable charm, there's a rising fascination with the impressive and regal appearance of larger breeds. Keep reading to discover some of the biggest domestic cats out there!
Highlander Cats Are A Work In Progress
Highlander cats are a relatively new and developing breed, created by crossing the Desert Lynx with the Jungle Curl. One of their most eye-catching traits is their uniquely curled ears, which give them an exotic, wild look—though their personalities are typically affectionate and playful.
In terms of size, these felines are no lightweights. Males often tip the scales between 15 and 20 pounds, while females usually weigh in at 10 to 14 pounds. Some individuals can even reach up to 24 pounds, making Highlanders one of the more robust domestic cat breeds around.
Why Toyger Cats Look Like Tigers
True to its name, the Toyger cat was bred to mimic the appearance of a miniature tiger. With bold stripes, a muscular build, and a confident gait, this breed doesn't just look the part—it often moves with a sleek, predatory grace that mirrors its wild counterpart.
Despite their wild appearance, Toygers are entirely domestic and known for their friendly, social temperament. Females usually weigh between 7 to 10 pounds, while males range from 10 to 15 pounds. Their signature orange coloring and striped coat are the result of selective breeding with domestic Shorthaired Tabbies, carefully refined to create their exotic look.
The Unique Heritage Of Turkish Vans
The Turkish Van gets its name from the Lake Van region in Turkey, where its ancestors roamed. Though its modern development as a breed took place in the United Kingdom, its roots remain deeply tied to Turkish feline heritage.
These cats are known for their semi-longhaired coats, distinct color pattern—usually white with colored markings on the head and tail—and their surprising love of water. Unlike most cats, Turkish Vans are strong swimmers and often enjoy splashing around. They grow slowly, typically taking up to five years to reach full physical maturity, and usually weigh between 9 and 15 pounds.
The Siberian Cat Has Been Domesticated
Prior to domestication, the Siberian cat thrived in a tough environment marked by brief summers and long, harsh winters.
This challenging climate shaped the breed's sturdy build, considerable size, and sharp intelligence. Once domesticated, Siberians began to showcase a wider variety of coat colors and developed a more affectionate, playful nature.
Bengals Love Being Around Humans
Bengal cats are often mistaken for wildcats due to their stunning, leopard-like coat. Typically, they range between 6 and 18 pounds and measure 14 to 18 inches in length.
Known for their athletic build and affectionate nature, Bengals love being around people. They prefer to spend their free time playing, jumping, and engaging in activities that keep them active and entertained.
Selkirk Rex Cats Are One Of The Newer Breeds
Selkirk Rex cats are known for their unique curly coats and large size, with most cats weighing between 6 and 16 pounds.
This breed is relatively new, having originated in Montana in 1987 when a rescue cat gave birth to a litter. Additionally, Selkirk Rex cats are hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with allergies.
Chausie Cats Come From The Jungle
According to Purina, Chausie cats are bred by crossing wild jungle cats with domestic breeds. These cats can grow quite large, weighing up to 25 pounds at full maturity.
With their long legs and sleek, athletic build, Chausies are naturally agile. They thrive on plenty of attention and a consistent routine, making them ideal companions for owners who spend a lot of time at home and can offer steady care.
Birman Cats Almost Went Extinct
Many cat owners might not realize that Birmans nearly faced extinction during World War II. Fortunately, these light-colored cats were preserved through crossbreeding with other long-haired breeds.
Typically weighing between eight and 15 pounds, Birman cats are known for their calm, friendly, and curious nature. Their most distinctive trait is the dark markings around their face, ears, and paws.
Pixiebobs Aren't Related To Bobcats
The impressively large Pixiebob earns its name because it resembles a miniature wild bobcat. These cats can weigh up to 17 pounds and are notable for sometimes having as many as seven toes on each paw.
Though Pixiebobs look strikingly like bobcats, they don't share any genetic ties with them.
It Takes Several Years For Ragamuffins To Grow
Ragamuffins, closely related to the Ragdoll breed, are among the largest domestic cats. They're known for their plush, fluffy coats and sweet, affectionate nature.
Their friendly expression, emphasized by big, round eyes, is one of their most notable features. These cats mature slowly—often taking up to four years to reach full size—and typically weigh between 8 and 20 pounds.
Persian Cats Are A Little Bit Lazy
The Persian cat's unique facial features are unmistakable. With its long fur, round flat face, and short muzzle, it has a distinctive "smushed" look.
Unlike some of the more energetic large cat breeds, Persians are known for their calm and relaxed nature, often preferring to lounge peacefully around the home.
Egyptian Maus Are As Fast As Lightning
Weighing between 6 and 14 pounds, Egyptian Mau cats are extremely loyal and active. They are drawn to the outdoors because they like to stalk and hunt for prey.
Owners should beware because they may bring you the critters they catch. Also, Egyptian Maus are the fastest domestic cats and can run up to 30 miles per hour.
Norwegian Forest Cats Are Legendary In Norway
Norwegian Forest cats are known for their sturdy, muscular bodies, large paws, and thick, water-resistant fur. They were originally bred to resemble the mythical cats from Norwegian folklore.
These gentle giants can weigh up to 22 pounds and often form a close bond with just one person. Because of their strong attachment style, they may not be the best fit for large households.
The Ocicat Isn't Related To Any Wildcats
At first glance, the Ocicat might remind you of a wild ocelot due to its spotted coat. Despite their wild appearance, these cats are solid and muscular in build.
Female Ocicats typically weigh between 6 and 9 pounds, while males range from 9 to 15 pounds. Though they look exotic, Ocicats don't have any wild ancestry in their genetic makeup—they’re entirely domestic.
Burmese Cats Are Great Observers
Burmese cats usually weigh between 8 and 15 pounds and are known for their strong, muscular bodies. Owners should buy them something to climb on because climbing is their favorite activity.
These cats tend to be observers and prefer to watch what goes on around them. Owners often find them perched high on a window ledge overlooking their surroundings.
British Shorthairs Are Adorably Chubby
Those looking for a chubby cat are in luck. The British Shorthair has more of a stalky build and usually weighs between 9 and 18 pounds.
British Shorthairs have some of the most unique coats and most of them end up turning a blue color. Even though these cats are pretty big, they are quite shy.
Savannahs Are Derived From African Wildcats
If the Savannah cat looks familiar, it may be because it's a cross between a domestic cat and an African wildcat.
Savannah cats have a striking resemblance to leopards and have very large ears. There are several classifications among the breed, depending on how much of their genes come from the African wildcat.
How American Bobtails Got Their Name
A name such as American Bobtail may seem a little intimidating, especially because it gets that name due to its resemblance to wild bobcats.
This breed has an average weight of 16 pounds and they are usually pretty athletic. According to Purina, these cats love nature and make good therapy animals.
All Ragdolls Are Descended From One Particular Cat
Ragdolls are some of the largest domestic cat breeds with the males weighing a little more than the females. They usually grow up to 20 pounds.
This breed is known for its deep blue eyes, soft, fluffy coat, and charming personality. According to Purina, all Ragdolls are descended from one longhaired white cat named Josephine.
Maine Coons Don't Meow
The Maine Coon ranks among the largest domestic cat breeds, often tipping the scales at around 20 pounds, and is known for its luxuriously thick, fluffy coat.
Originally bred as working cats on farms, Maine Coons earned a reputation as skilled hunters, helping keep barns and homes free of pests. Unlike most cats that meow, this clever and playful breed is famous for its distinctive yowl-like vocalizations, adding to its unique charm.