An average house cat weighs about 8–13 lb and isn’t very big. Of course, there are exceptional individuals, but even they aren’t as impressive as the true giants of the cat world. Which cat breeds are the biggest? Let’s find out.
The 5 Largest Cat Breeds
1. Siberian
Siberians have a big, powerful, well-muscled body. Females usually weigh 10–15 lb, and males can reach 15–20 lb or more. The coat is thick and long, the tail is bushy and the coloring can be almost anything.
Siberians are often recommended for people with mild cat allergies, because many of them produce less of the main cat allergen (though no cat is completely hypoallergenic). They have a fairly independent personality and aren’t the type to purr for hours in your arms. Siberian cats are excellent hunters, so you can say goodbye to any mice in the house.
In the US, a Siberian kitten usually costs about $1,500–$3,500.
2. Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest Cat looks a lot like the Siberian. It seems large, even bulky, because of its double, water-resistant coat. The coat comes in many colors. Males can weigh up to about 20 lb, while females are smaller, usually 9–12 lb.
These are very sociable, playful and friendly cats. Despite their large size, they’re surprisingly elegant and graceful.
In the US, a Norwegian Forest Cat kitten usually costs about $1,000–$2,000.
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3. Maine Coon
These big domestic cats inspire admiration and affection. They’re especially large: males usually weigh 13–18 lb, and some individuals top 20–25 lb, while females usually weigh 8–12 lb. Including the tail, an adult male Maine Coon often measures around 3 feet long or more. In fact, the Guinness record for the longest domestic cat ever belonged to a Maine Coon named Stewie, at 48.5 inches.
With their prominent ear tufts, Maine Coons look a little like lynxes. Despite their impressive size, they’re very tidy, graceful and especially affectionate and friendly.
In the US, a Maine Coon kitten usually costs about $1,500–$3,000.
Learn more about: longhaired cat breeds and shorthaired cat breeds.
4. Ragdoll
The name of this breed translates as “rag doll,” and it’s well deserved. Ragdolls are famously laid-back, and their ability to go completely limp in your arms is legendary. Males usually weigh 15–20 lb, and females 10–15 lb.
You may have heard that Ragdolls can’t land on their feet or don’t feel pain. That’s a myth: they have normal reflexes and feel pain like any other cat. Still, because they’re so relaxed and heavy, always support their whole body when you pick them up, and don’t let them jump from great heights.
The breed’s hallmarks are blue eyes and a very soft, semi-long coat with pointed coloring. Ragdolls are the sweetest, most easygoing cats imaginable: completely non-confrontational and very friendly.
In the US, a Ragdoll kitten usually costs about $1,200–$2,500.
5. Savannah
The Savannah is the tallest cat breed in the world. Early-generation Savannahs can stand about 14–17 inches at the shoulder, and large F1 males can weigh 20–25 lb or more, though later generations are usually smaller.
These big cats are surprisingly unlike cats. Yes, you read that right! The thing is, some of their habits are just like a dog’s: they’re easy to train, happily walk on a leash and love playing in water.
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Savannahs are very sociable, playful and energetic, and they really don’t like being alone. Their coat matches the breed’s exotic look and resembles a leopard’s.
The price for such an unusual and beautiful cat is just as impressive: the largest first-generation (F1) Savannahs can cost $20,000 or more, while F3 and F4 cats usually start at a few thousand dollars. Keep in mind that the further a Savannah is from its wild ancestor, the serval, the less wild its look and size tend to be. Also check your local laws before buying: early-generation Savannahs are banned or restricted in several US states and cities.
