Large House Cat Breeds

Although it is true that most good things come in small packages, one look at the magnificent large house cat breeds and you would have probably changed your mind. Apart from the large wild and hybrid cats, there are a number of large domestic cat breeds. Unlike some small breeds, the large cats are good natured, friendly and usually quite dependent on people for companionship and affection. In fact my friend's Ragdoll had this habit of following her around the entire house like a dog and even lying at her feet for hours (I can assure you that this behavior does not apply to the smaller cat breeds and certainly not to my tabby, unless it is time for food). Here are a list of the largest domestic cat breeds out there.

List of Large Cat Breeds

Maine Coon: Made popular in the cat shows in the 1800s, Maine Coon the official cat of Maine state is one of the largest domestic cat breeds. These native long haired cats are massive, broad chested cats with bodies that are long and rectangular. Its thick, glossy water resistant coat is ideal for the harsh climate of Maine. While the Maine Coon males can weigh an average of 13 to 20 pounds, females rarely attain the same size as the males. Most Maine Coon female cats would weigh somewhere between 7 to 11 pounds. Maine Coon is often called the "gentle giant" because of its loving nature and gentle and sweet disposition. Their love for people especially children and their willingness to help and socialize has earned this big cat a reputation of being a "dog in cats clothing".

Ragamuffin: Ragamuffin cats are large, muscular cats with rectangular bodies, broad chests and a short neck. Their rabbit like fur is thick and plushy and also surprisingly easy to care for. They come in a range of coat colors and patterns. Most of the Ragamuffin cats are quite large with the females weighing between 10 to 15 pounds and males weighing between 15 to 20 pounds. These large house cats are extremely sociable and friendly with people. They have a gentle, affectionate nature and actually love CUDDLING up to people (Sigh...).

Ragdoll: The semi long haired, blue eyed, Ragdolls are one of the largest cat breeds. The Ragdoll males can typically weigh between 15 to 20 pounds and females weigh around 8 to 10 pounds. The docile, gentle nature of this large cat breed have led to the myth that the Ragdolls are pain resistant. However, this is not really true. Rather these cats are extremely patient with relaxed temperaments and are usually quite easy to handle. Here is some more information on Ragdoll cats.

Ocicat: Although it does resemble the wild cats, the Ocicat is nevertheless an all domestic house cat. An average Ocicat male is relatively large and can weigh somewhere around 12 to 13 pounds. What is fascinating about this large house cat breed is its outgoing nature and most of them can be trained to walk on leash and even play fetch! What's more you can train these cats to respond to commands and other dog related tricks. They love being petted even by strangers and would want to spend most of the time around people.

Pixie Bobs: Closely resembling a bobcat, the Pixie Bob cats are large cats weighing 18lb or 8kg. The females weigh around 14lb. They are characterized by a light cream or brown coat with beautiful dark lines and spots. Pixie Bob cats like all large house cat breeds seek human companionship and affection. They are active, social cats which actually love playing with the other animals.

Savannah: A cross between the domestic cat breed and the Serval cat breed, Savannah cats are tall and slim with a light coat with dark spots or marks on it. These large cats are quite social and people friendly. They can be trained to walk on a leash. One of its most fascinating characteristics is its love for water and these cats are known to love splashing around and playing in it.

Turkish Van: One of the largest cat breeds, the Turkish Van cats can weigh somewhere around 12 to16 pounds and usually have a massive muscle structure and large paws. Native to the alpine Lake Van region of modern Turkey, these cats have thick, water resistant soft coats. The colors and marks are restricted to the head and the tail. Intelligent and inquisitive, Turkish Vans are known to have a fascination for water and are also referred to as the "Swimming Cats" for this unusual trait.

It is important that if you are planning to adopt any of the large house cat breeds, you should understand the qualities of the breeds. These cats also need more space to move around and can be quite active. Cat care is a commitment for life and an understanding of the cat behavior and their needs is a vital part of having a pet.