10 Big Cat Breeds That Make Great Pets

Unlike dogs, who clearly come in small, big, and medium-sized packages, you might think that cats are all generally the same size. But domestic cats do get quite large, and certain breeds are more prone to growth spurts than others.

From Guinness World Record holders to cats who play fetch and enjoy a swim, there’s a lot of love about big cats that grow to 7 kg or more. One thing is for certain—these large cat breeds have larger-than-life personalities. Is a big cat right for you? We’ll help you decide!

The?Norwegian Forest Cat, as you might guess, is built for harsh Scandinavian climates. A hardy cat with a thick coat and muscular build, they’ve been immortalised in Viking folklore as the?Skoggkat.?Owners describe their Wegies?as playful and interactive. Interested? Be sure to have an extra comb on hand for the spring thaw, as the change in temperature means its shedding season for the Wegie.

Interesting fact:?Wegies love to climb trees, so plan your indoor plants accordingly!

2. Savannah Cat

This hybrid cat is a cross between a wild African Serval and a domesticated cat. Recently recognised by?The International Cat Association?as a bonafide breed, this cat makes a bold fashion statement with their black spots?and?stripes! Interested in a Savannah? Pre-load your home with robust toys to safeguard your furniture from destruction! These cats combine curiosity, strength, and playfulness to add some character to your household.

Interesting fact:??Savannahs sometimes show their affection by headbutting (you read that right!).

3. Maine Coon

The Maine Coon?is a gentle giant, known for their hunting prowess, athleticism, and (really) loud meow. The Maine Coon is the largest domesticated cat breed, with males growing to around 8 kg. They frequently earn Guiness World Record?accolades for biggest cat, tallest cat, longest cat…you get the picture. Maine Coon kittens are curious little creatures who will climb anything (trees, grandma’s legs, small children) and think nothing of jumping from the floor to the top of the fridge to find the perfect perch. All in a day’s work for the largest (and very affectionate) domesticated cat.

Interesting?fact:?The Maine Coon made their literary debut in 1861 with a cat character named?Captain Jenks of the Horse Marines.

4. Chausie

The Olympian of cats, the?Chausie?is large and athletic. Like many large cat breeds, some of their behaviours resemble that of dogs (don’t tell them we told you so!). Chausies are playful and very interactive, will follow you from room to room, and even walk on leashes.

Interesting fact:?The?name Chausie comes from?Felis?chaus,?the Latin name for “Jungle Cat.”

5. Ragdoll

The Ragdollis easily recognisable by their beautiful baby blue eyes. These cats are known for their epic lounging skills and affection toward their owners. High jumps? No thanks. They prefer to take their naps on the floor or from a favourite perch and are often found stretching across their owner’s laps. As they grow in size, they can stretch clear off one lap and onto another.

Interesting fact:?Ragdolls are known for their skill in the game of fetch.

6. Ragamuffin

Not to be confused with the Ragdoll, the?Ragamuffin?is a breed of its own—though the ‘rag’ in Ragamuffin refers to the same general tendency to lay limp across their owner’s arms or laps. This gentle and sweet cat is a favourite for households with kids or other pets.

Interesting fact:?Ragamuffins are so trusting that they’re best as indoor cats only.

7. Siberian

A Russian national treasure, the Siberian cat has starred in Russian fairy tales dating back hundreds of years. Like the Ragdoll, they can have blue eyes, and sometimes even feature eyes of different colours. They’re calm cats who do well with kids and have even been recommended as therapy cats.

Interesting fact:?These cats are closet acrobats and have mastered the art of the somersault, especially when in pursuit of a favourite toy.

8. Pixie-Bob Cat

Bred to look like the American Coastal Red Bobcat, the Pixie-Bob?has the bobtail and tufted ears of the Bob, but the personality of a domestic cat. Sharing lots of traits with their arch-nemesis (the dog), these cats are known for not minding a walk on a leash and their skill at a game of fetch. Oh, and they?growl.

Interesting fact:?The Pixie-Bob is the only breed where polydactyl (extra-toed) cats are accepted into competitions.

9. Selkirk Rex

The Selkirk Rex is a?Guinness World Record?holder for the World’s Newest Cat Breed. That’s right, the Selkirk Rex became a breed recognised by the University of Veterinary Medicine in just 2013. ‘Rexed’ breeds are known for tufted fur that makes them look like they’re having a perpetual bad hair day. What’s not to love?

Interesting fact:?The?Selkirk Rex?is a combination of three breeds: the Persian, the British Shorthair, and the Exotic Shorthair.

10. Turkish Van Cat

The Turkish Van is easily recognisable by their unique colour pattern, with a white body and colour only on the face and tail (which is known as?piebald). They’re considered a regional treasure in their native Middle East and are difficult to import. The first mating pair arrived in the United States only in 1982. ?Turkish Van coats are semi-long and lack an undercoat, which is great news for those who love big cats but not big hairballs.

Interesting fact:?The Turkish Van loves to swim.

Love your big cats.

Do comment and follow.