If you’ve ever wished for a pet that’s a mix between a cat and a small wild animal, then large cat breeds might be exactly what you’re looking for. These gentle giants defy the traditional image of a dainty house cat with their impressive size, powerful builds, and often dog-like personalities.
Some, like the Maine Coon, can weigh over 20 pounds, while others, like the Savannah cat, boast long, lean bodies reminiscent of their wild ancestors. But don’t let their size fool you—these big cats are known for being affectionate, social, and full of personality.
We’ll introduce you to the most majestic large cat breeds, perfect for those who love the idea of having a larger-than-life feline companion.
Very Large Cat Breeds
1. Turkish Van
Weight – 10 to 20 pounds
Imagine the largest domestic cat that enjoys swimming as much as it enjoys knocking things off your desk. Meet the Turkish Van, also known as “the swimming cat”, PetMD says.
Unlike most felines who look at water like it’s an enemy, these guys actively seek it out. A full bathtub? That’s a playground. A running faucet? Time for a shower. Some owners have even caught them diving into pools like tiny Olympic athletes.
Turkish Vans have a semi-long, incredibly soft coat that’s mostly white, with color markings on their heads and tails—almost like an artist forgot to finish painting them. With their muscular bodies and powerful legs, they are natural jumpers, climbers, and all-around adventurers.
Personality-wise, these cats are as smart as they are mischievous. They love to play, explore, and push their humans’ patience just enough to keep things interesting. If you want a big, energetic cat with a love for action (and occasional chaos), the Turkish Van is your perfect match.
2. Norwegian Forest Cat
Weight – 12 to 18 pounds (or more!)
Straight out of Viking mythology, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a domestic cat breed that looks like it should be prowling through an enchanted forest. With its thick, water-resistant coat, large size, and luxurious mane, it has the regal appearance of a lion crossed with a cloud.
These gentle giants have muscular builds and tufted ears, which add to their wild and mysterious look.
They’re excellent climbers, often perching themselves on top of bookshelves, cabinets, and any high surface that makes you wonder, how did they even get up there?
Despite their imposing size, Norwegian Forest Cats have an affectionate nature and surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.
They love attention but don’t demand it—think of them as that cool, independent friend who enjoys cuddles but also needs their personal space. If you want a big, intelligent cat who can also survive a Nordic snowstorm, this is the cat for you.
3. Siberian
Weight – 12 to 20 Pounds
Ever wonder what it would be like to cuddle a small bear? Meet the Siberian, the largest domestic cat breed. This massive ball of fur that somehow manages to be both a tank and a snuggle bug.
Originating from Russia, these cats evolved to survive actual Siberian winters, so their thick triple-layered coat is no joke.
Despite their wild, rugged look, Siberian cats are affectionate, playful, and surprisingly acrobatic for their size.
They’ll leap onto high shelves with ease, leaving you wondering if you accidentally adopted a mountain lion. If you’re looking for a cat that’s equal parts regal, athletic, and extremely fluffy, this is the one for you.
Fun fact: Siberians are said to be hypoallergenic! If you’re allergic to cats but still want a giant feline overlord, this might be your best bet.
4. Bengal
Weight – 10 to 18 Pounds
If a leopard and a house cat had a love child, it would be the Bengal. These strikingly beautiful felines have gorgeous spotted or marbled short coats, making them look straight out of the jungle. But don’t let their wild appearance fool you—Bengals are total goofballs.
With high energy levels and a love for adventure, Bengals are not your average lap cats as they are extremely active.
They want to climb, run, and—yes—sometimes zoom across your house at 3 AM like a caffeinated cheetah. They also love water, so don’t be surprised if they try to join you in the shower (privacy? What’s that?).
According to the Cat Fancier Association, Bengals are often considered to be quite talkative like Siamese cats, but this is not necessarily true of every Bengal.
Owning a Bengal means committing to playtime, mental stimulation, and a cat who believes your house belongs to them. Which, let’s be honest, it does.
5. Savannah
Weight – 12 to 25 Pounds
Looking for a cat that makes people say, “Uh… are you sure that’s legal?” Then meet the Savannah, a breathtaking breed with long hind legs, large ears, and a sleek coat that screams ‘wildcat royalty.’
Savannahs are part wild—literally. They’re a hybrid between a domestic cat and a Serval, a wild African feline.
Their size depends on their generation. As per the ASPCA, Savannah cats can vary greatly in size due to their hybrid nature. On average, they weigh between 10 to 20 pounds, but it’s not uncommon for some to weigh up to 30 pounds.
These cats are intelligent, athletic, and love playing fetch, making them feel like a dog in a cat’s body.
But beware—Savannahs are high-maintenance. They need space to run, climb, and exercise their inner jungle instincts. If you can handle their boundless energy, you’ll have a fiercely loyal companion who thinks you’re just another member of their pride.
6. Ragdoll
Weight – 10 to 20 Pounds
Ever dreamed of a giant, living stuffed animal? That’s basically a Ragdoll. These gentle giants are famous for their relaxed nature, often going completely limp in your arms like a furry, purring ragdoll (hence the name).
Noted by Petplan, Ragdoll cats are one of the largest domestic breeds and are known as gentle giants. They are peaceful, sociable, and inquisitive, making them a delight to be around.
Ragdolls have striking blue eyes, silky coats, and the personality of a dog—seriously, they’ll greet you at the door, follow you around, and even play fetch. They are the ultimate lap cats, happy to be carried around like royalty while their human servants cater to their every need.
If you want a big, lovable cat who thinks cuddling is a full-time job, look no further. But be warned—once a Ragdoll claims your lap, you’re not getting up anytime soon.
7. RagaMuffin
Weight – 12 to 20 Pounds
Take a Ragdoll, add even more fluff, rounder features, and an even sweeter personality, and you’ve got a large cat ‘RagaMuffin’. These big, plush cats are basically living teddy bears.
They are a relatively new breed, originating in the 1990s as a variation of the Ragdoll cat. Known for their sweet nature, they are excellent companions for families, singles, and even seniors.
Much like their Ragdoll cousins, RagaMuffins love to be held and snuggled, and they are known for their sweet, puppy-like devotion to their humans. They’ll happily follow you around the house, nap in your lap, and offer you a soft, floofy shoulder to cry on when life gets rough.
But don’t let their cuddly nature fool you—they’re also playful and surprisingly clever. They’ll learn tricks, come when called, and probably outsmart you at least once a day.
Conclusion
For cat lovers and pet parents who appreciate the charm of a big cat, large domesticated breeds offer the best of both worlds—size and a loving temperament. While wild cats, such as the wild jungle cat, thrive in their natural habitats, many large house cats have been bred to combine the impressive stature of their wild counterparts with a gentle and affectionate personality that makes them ideal for families.
Some of the most well-known large breeds include the British Shorthair, known for its plush coat and calm demeanor, the Selkirk Rex, with its distinctive curly fur, and the American Bobtail, which is admired for its playful intelligence and striking appearance. Beyond their physical size, these cats make great family pets due to their friendly, loyal, and social personalities. If you’re looking for a big house cat that exudes elegance, charm, and a touch of the wild, then one of these very large cat breeds might be the perfect furry companion for you!
