10 of the Largest Domestic Cats from Largest to Smallest

Are you looking for a new cat? Maybe you have dreams of owning a large housecat, but you want to make sure you’re getting one that will fit you and your lifestyle.

You may also be looking for a cat that is a certain size, preferably a large cat. Many of the largest domestic cats can get as big as 25 lbs. These cats may take more care then you want, so you may need to consider a smaller large cat.

The following list is sorted by weight from largest to smallest.

What is the largest domestic cat?

Main Coon

The Main Coon is the largest domestic cat. Main coons can reach up to 25 pounds or more. They have a long history as domestic cats and are extremely playful. Be ready with lots of toys for your Main Coon cat, they love to hunt and unless you have a mouse problem, they will need lots of toys to play with.

Main coon cats are America’s second most popular breed of cat. They once were almost extinct however, due to their friendly and cuddly personality they became a beloved addition to families and overcame extinction.

They get along well with others and enjoy spending time with their owners, however this does not mean they are needy. In fact they are happy just being in the same room with you and keeping an eye on what you are doing.

Savannah

The Savannah Cat is the second largest domestic cat breed. They also can read 25 pounds, however, because they are a recent addition to the cat world they fall into second place. The savannah cat was created by breeding an African Serval and a Siamese cat.

Savannah cats are difficult to breed so they are expensive, the cost to adopt a Savanna cat ranged from $1,000-$20,000. This cost depends on the generation of the cat. First-generation cats are harder to breed so they are much more expensive than a 5th or 6th generation cat.

If the price of this cat doesn’t bother you, you will be interested in their intelligence, high energy and if you also love dogs, this dog-friendly cat may be an option for your home. Due to their high energy, you want to be sure to have lots of toys for them to play with.

Norwegian Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest cat is one of the oldest domesticated cats. It is believed that they were brought to Norway by Vikings in 1000 AD. They are a fluffy powerful cat that possesses strong claws and can climb trees and rocks easily.

They are natural athletes and need room to roam. They enjoy heights, so be prepared with a cat tree or perch that they can hang out on. They enjoy cuddling and are tolerant of new people. They are great for families as they don’t bond with just one person, but love everyone equally.

Highlander Cat

Highlander cats or Highland Lynx are known for their curled ears and short tails. They are friendly cats who may even greet you at your door. They are playful and very laid back. They have a dog-like personality and will bring you toys to play with.

They can have both long or short hair and are known to often have polydactyl feet. This means that they have extra toes. Many people only adopt polydactyl cats and if this describes you, then the Highland cat may be the cat for you.

Ragdoll

Ragdoll cats were first created in 1963 when a white Angora cat was bred with cats bearing Siamese-style points. This breeding can be seen in the Ragdolls of today.

Ragdolls get their name because they tend to go limp in your arms. They are wonderful with children and are almost baby-like. They let you hold them and will even ride in a baby carriage.

Ragamuffin

Ragamuffin Cats are another of the largest domestic cats, these cuddly cats were bred from the Ragdoll cats and share many of the same qualities. They are lovable, cuddly, and will go limp in your arms, just like the Ragdoll.

They are also known as cat-dogs and will learn to play fetch, love to cuddle, and will go on walks. They also get along with other cats, dogs, and children. Make sure you have a lot of toys for this very energetic cat. They enjoy playing and have lots of energy that will keep them playing most of the day.

They are not a very vocal cat but will let you know if they need to be fed or if something else is wrong. They are a great addition to a family or a single person who wants a cat that will snuggle up with them.

Chausie

The Chausie cat was created by breeding Felis Chaus, a wild cat with domesticated breeds including the Abyssinian and Oriental Shorthair. They are muscular cats with very long legs. They are intelligent and social cats who also are very active.

These cats have amazing hunting skills and will make sure your home stays free of any strange visitors. Since they are very active cats they need lots of toys and things to climb on. They do not do well in homes where you may have many things you are worried about being broken

Bengal

The Bengal cat may look like a wild cat however, they are friendly playful, and energetic cats. They love to climb, so be prepared with a cat tree or other area they can use to get up high.

They are extremely intelligent cats, in fact, many have even been trained to use the toilet. They may even learn how to flush it! On top of learning those two tricks, they may also learn how to turn off your lights or open doors.

British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is the oldest of the British breeds. It can trace its roots back to the Romans. They are skilled hunters and were prized pets due to this fact. You may recognize this loveable cat, this breed is the clever feline of Puss in Boots and the grinning Cheshire Cat of Alice in Wonderland.

They are a calm breed and learn new things quickly. They have a teddy bear appearance and large, round, inquisitive eyes. They are not overly friendly cats, however, they do get along with almost everyone and are a great cat for someone who wants a pet, but not one that they have to pay a lot of attention to.

Turkish Van

The Turkish Van is one of the smaller of the largest domestic cats. They have unusual markings, called a “Van pattern,” which consists of a nearly all-white body with coloring on the face and tail. They have a very soft coat that will fill in as they mature.

They are highly energetic cats and enjoy swimming, giving them the nickname the “swimming cat”. Their coat is naturally water-resistant so they will come out of their swim relatively dry.

Turkish Van’s are sweet and lovable cats, however, they like to snuggle on their own terms and are not very tolerant of children pulling on their tails and ears.

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These are just 10 of the largest domestic cats, there are of course many more, and if these don’t sound like a good fit for your home. You can find a larger list of big domestic cats and cats that are available for adoption here.