The largest domestic cat breed in the world. The largest cat breeds. Video: Norwegian cat is a forest dweller in your apartment

Typically, a cat weighs between 4-6 kg, is short in stature and small in size. There are, of course, individual specimens, but even they are not as impressive in their size as big cats. What are the largest cat breeds? Let's figure it out.

The biggest cats: top 5 largest

Animals of this breed have large, good developed body. Females reach 6-7 kg, females grow up to 12 kg. The fur of Siberian cats is thick and long, the tail is fluffy, and the color can be very diverse.

These cats are great for people who are allergic to animal fur. The character of these fluffies is quite capricious. They are not the type to purr while lying in their owner's arms for hours. excellent hunters, so the absence of rats or mice in the house is guaranteed. The price of Siberians ranges from 150 to 3000 UAH (600-12000 rubles).

Norwegian forest cat

The ancestors of this cat were bred by the Vikings 2,000 years ago. Cute and fluffy, this cat can withstand severe cold and is an excellent hunter. The price of a kitten varies from $600 to $3,000.

Himalayan cat

This breed is very similar to the Persian, but different blue eyes and color-point coloring (light body with a dark muzzle, paws, ears and tail). This breed was developed in 1950 in the USA. Himalayans are affectionate, obedient and friendly cats with a calm nature. A kitten of this breed will cost $500–$1,300.

Scottish lop-eared

The calling card of this breed is its cute ears, which do not stick out upward, like those of ordinary cats, but hang down. This unusual detail of their appearance is a consequence of a gene mutation. This smart cats who get along with everyone in the family and are never averse to playing. Another one distinctive feature of this breed - they know how to stand on hind legs and look at what interests them. A kitten costs from $200 to $1,500.

Peterbald

The Peterbald, or St. Petersburg Sphynx, was bred in Russia in 1994. These elegant cats have a slender body, a long head shape and large, set-back ears. The body may be bald or covered with down. Cats have an affectionate and sociable character and are easy to train. Such a kitten will cost $400–1,200.

Egyptian Mau

The appearance of these cats has changed little in 3,000 years - since Ancient Egypt. The spotted color of this breed appears not only on the coat, but also on the skin. To become the owner of an ancient Egyptian cat, you need to spend $500–1,500.

Maine Coon

This is one of the largest cat breeds. Representatives of this breed can weigh from 5 to 15 kg, and the body length of an adult Maine Coon can reach 1.23 m. But despite their formidable appearance, they are affectionate, gentle and playful animals. The price of a giant kitten varies between $600–$1,500.

Laperm

This is one of the most unusual breeds, which appeared in 1980 in the USA. In addition to their curly hair, cats of this breed have another feature: they are hypoallergenic, so they are perfect for families with allergies. A kitten of this breed costs $200–2,000.

Russian blue

Serengeti

This breed was developed in 1994 in California. She belongs to large cats: the weight of an adult Serengeti is 8–12 kg. They have a strong build big ears, spotted color and very long legs. You can buy such a cat for $600–$2,000.

Elf

This young cat breed was bred in the USA in 2006. Elves are very friendly, intelligent, mischievous, sociable, inquisitive and loyal creatures. Those wishing to purchase such a unique pet will have to pay a considerable sum - $2,000.

Toyger

This large cat breed resembles a tiger in color, which is how it got its name. The creator of the breed claims that the Toyger was bred to inspire people to care about the conservation of tigers in wildlife. You can get inspired to save tigers for $500–$3,000.

American Curl

This breed was developed in California in 1981. Newborn kittens are difficult to distinguish from ordinary cats, but by the 10th day of life their ears curl back like small horns. This feature touches hundreds of thousands of people around the world. You can join the curl enthusiasts for $1,000–$3,000.

Bengal

This breed was developed by crossing an Asian leopard cat with a domestic cat. These cats love to swim, and despite their impressive size (4–8 kg), they often climb onto their owner’s shoulders. You can buy a mini leopard for $1,000–$4,000.

Safari

This rare breed appeared due to the crossing of an ordinary domestic cat and the South American wild cat Geoffroy. The first representatives of the breed were bred in the United States in the 1970s to study leukemia. The weight of an adult cat is on average 11 kg. Become an owner domestic predator possible for $4,000–$8,000.

Khao-mani

01/24/2016 at 20:16 · Pavlofox · 7 460

The most large breeds domestic cats

There are probably few people who are indifferent to cats. Some people dote on these furry creatures, while others are allergic to tailed beggars. Nature has endowed cats with good flexibility, reaction and plasticity, and deprived them of a large body size. But there are breeds in the world that are several times larger in mass than even some dogs. Let's take a closer look at the largest breeds of domestic cats.

10. Kurilian Bobtail | Weight up to 7 kg

A short-tailed cat, whose homeland is considered to be the Kuril Islands Iturup and Kunashir. It was brought to the “mainland” in the 80s of the last century. A special feature of the Kuril Bobtail is its lack of fear of water. But despite this, the cat does not want to swim. Is a good fisherman and tolerates well low temperatures. This breed, included in the list of the largest, will good choice for the future owner. After all, the bobtail will become a real friend for him. He is friendly, active and in some aspects of behavior similar to a dog (fetching a toy). The weight of a male reaches 6.5-7 kg, females 3-5 kg.

9. Chartreuse | Weight up to 7 kg

This breed is recognized all over the world except Great Britain. The islanders believe that the Chartreuse is just a short-haired species. British cat. The animal was first bred in the French city of Chartres, where, in fact, the name of the breed came from. In Germany, Chartreux was called the Carthusian cat, in honor of the order of monks of the same name. This species is similar to dogs: cats are strong, muscular, respond to their name, and, if desired, can learn to fetch things. The weight of a male Chartreux, which ranks 9th in the top largest breeds of domestic cats, is 6-7 kg, females - 4-6 kg.

8. Pixie Bob | Weight up to 7.7 kg

An artificially bred cat breed. The breeders' task was to create a breed that would look like a lynx. After several unsuccessful experiments, they succeeded. Domestic cats were crossed with wild short-tailed cats. The resulting individual was named Pixie Bob, which translated from English means short-tailed fairy.

The breed, one of the top largest cats, was officially registered in 1995. Most feline systems have recognized the Pixie Bob. But there are clubs of cat lovers who refuse to confirm the existence of this breed. In their opinion, it was created contrary to nature. The weight of males reaches 5.5-7.7 kg, females - 3-5.5 kg.

7. Ragdoll | Weight up to 9 kg

The name of the breed means “rag doll”, since the cat does not resist at all and reacts in any way to any actions with it. It can be stroked, squeezed, placed in any position.

It was bred by Ann Baker in the 60s of the last century in California. Outwardly it resembles a Burmese cat, but the Ragdoll has a wider chest, thicker legs, and a massive rear end torso. This breed, included in the list of the largest in the world, becomes very attached to its owner. The cat cannot stand being alone for long periods of time and can understand human speech and carry out basic commands. The weight of males reaches 6-9 kg, and females - 4-6 kg.

6. Norwegian Forest Cat | Weight up to 9.5 kg

Widely distributed in Scandinavian countries. Versions about the origin of the cat vary. But many agree that in the 16th century Angora cats were brought to Europe, which subsequently adapted to wild conditions nature. They acquired tenacious claws to climb trees, and they learned to fish. The Norwegian Forest Cat, considered one of the largest breeds in the world, has a sociable character, curiosity, and love of freedom. The size of males reaches 5-9.5 kg, females - from 3.5 to 7 kg.

5. Turkish van | Weight up to 9 kg

This breed of semi-longhaired cats originated in Turkey, near Lake Van in the Armenian Highlands. It is considered one of the most ancient breeds of domestic cats. It has a muscular and elongated body. The chest is wide, like a swimmer's. The cat, considered a large breed, is very energetic and sociable. He loves to jump and run. Has a pleasant voice. Van is not afraid of water and enjoys swimming. Bonds to only one owner. Even if there are several people in the house, Van will single out only one of them. Male weight: 6-9 kg. Female weight: 4-6 kg.

4. Siberian cat | Weight up to 9 kg

The Siberian cat, one of the largest domestic breeds, was first mentioned in records from the 16th century. Then they were called Bukhara. It is not known exactly who and when brought Bukhara cats to Siberia. It is assumed that Russian merchants brought cats to the cold region from Asian countries, where active trade was carried out at that time.

The Siberian cat has muscular legs and body middle length, voluminous neck, rounded paws and wide tail. It has a long maturation period - up to 5 years. The cat's long and thick fur protects it from cold, snow and bad weather conditions. The weight of males is from 6 to 9 kg, and females from 4 to 7 kg.

3. British cat | Weight up to 10 kg

The breed receives bronze in the ranking of the largest domestic cats. They are independent. They are also called “businessman’s cats.” They can easily endure prolonged loneliness. Unobtrusive: cats of this breed will never ask to be held or caressed. TO strangers are treated with caution, usually maintaining a safe distance of 1-2 meters. Despite their large size, they are flexible and ductile. Good mousecatchers. The “British” are unpretentious in food: they require 150-200 grams of meat per day and pure water. They have a squat body with a wide chest and a straight back. The body weight of males is 6-10 kg, and that of females is 5-7 kg.

2. Maine Coon | Weight up to 15 kg

Maine Coons originated from cats that lived on farms in the northern US state of Maine. They look like raccoons in appearance (powerful tail, specific color), which is why the second part of the breed’s name is translated as “raccoon”. Literally - Maine raccoon. Cats that took silver in the list of the largest breeds have a friendly and peaceful disposition. They are distinguished by accuracy and high intelligence. They are easy to train and train. Males of this breed can reach impressive sizes. The body weight of a cat is 6-15 kg, of a female - 5-6 kg.

1. Savannah | Weight up to 20 kg

It is considered not only the largest, but also the most expensive cat in the world. This breed was first bred in the early 80s of the last century. Crossed a domestic cat and an African serval. Savannah's first offspring appeared in 1986. Two kittens were born.

Cats of this breed have long legs and body, bowl-shaped ears and a spotted coat color. They have a high cat IQ, easy-going character, curiosity and great vital energy. Find mutual language with other pets. The weight of the largest breed of domestic cats reaches 20 kg.

Readers' Choice:

The biggest domestic cat in the world - savannah, its height can reach 0.6 m, and its weight is 15-16 kg, sometimes 20. The remaining large breeds weigh on average no more than 10 kg. In terms of habits and grace, they are in no way inferior to their brothers, but their size is amazing. These cats are very friendly and sociable, which quite makes up for the fact that they require somewhat more serious care than smaller breeds.

TOP 9

Let's look at the largest cat breeds known and bred today.

Breeders set themselves the task of obtaining a cat that is adapted to living next to humans, is friendly and at the same time has the characteristics of its wild counterparts: exotic color, large size.

Since 2015, the Savannah has been considered the most expensive cat breed. The price depends on the amount of Serval blood in an individual. The most expensive are considered to be savannas, in which one of the parents is a wild serval, that is, having 50% of its genes.

Characteristic features of the breed are a long body, an elongated neck and limbs, and large cupped ears. The savanna reaches its maximum potential size by three years. These are cats with very high intelligence, and their devotion to their owner is not inferior to that of a dog.

Savannah should not be kept in a city apartment: she needs space, so only owners should get a cat country houses with plots. This is an active animal that needs a lot of space and movement. Unlike other domestic cats, representatives of this breed are not afraid of water, they love to splash and play, so the presence of a pond or pool will become pleasant surprise for a four-legged pet.

Chausie (housey)

Relatively new breed, bred through selection and some domestic breeds. The weight of an adult can reach 10-12 kg, sometimes more.

They are friendly by nature, love to play, but prefer to communicate at a distance and it is better not to pick them up. The Hausi is devoted to her owner and loves to spend time with him. These cats are excellent hunters, strong and muscular.

The Maine Coon occupies a leading position in the top ten largest domestic cats; before the breeding of the Savannah, it was the largest representative. He comes from North America; the ancestors of modern Maine Coons are considered to be Maine cats. There are many legends about the origin; according to one of them, the ancestors of such cats were raccoons.

Representatives of this breed reach a height of 0.4-0.45 meters, and weigh up to 8-9, sometimes 15 kg.

The body length of a Maine Coon, including its tail, can be more than a meter (the record holder is a cat whose length was 123 cm).

Due to their origin, Maine Coons are very hardy and well adapted to unfavorable climates. They have long and thick hair that grows even between their toes, and a large and fluffy tail. Maine farmers valued these cats for their excellent hunting qualities.

Domestic Maine Coons have a fairly friendly and peaceful character and get along well with children and other animals. Despite their size, cats of this breed are very neat, energetic and love to play. Maine Coons are very self-sufficient; they will not get in the way of their owners or ask them to be picked up.

Siberians are excellent hunters with highly developed instincts, so they prefer space. The cold does not frighten them; they tolerate the conditions of small apartments much worse, where it is difficult for them to be active.

Cats of this breed are willful, independent, but can become a wonderful friend.

These beautiful semi-long-haired beauties are large in size (up to 9-10 kg) and have a strong build. They are excellent hunters and fishermen, and are also the only cats who can descend from a height head down. Maybe that's why they love to explore the highest places in the apartment.

Norwegian cats have good manners, by nature they are soft and peace-loving, it is extremely difficult to provoke them into conflict or hooliganism. They get along well even with restless children and naughty dogs.

Representatives of this breed are very intelligent and quick-witted, love to play and are active until adulthood. In terms of their affection for people, they are very reminiscent of dogs; unlike other cats, Norwegians sincerely love a person, and not a house.

Due to the fact that such cats have very strongly developed instincts, including the instinct of self-preservation, they prefer to stay away from guests and strangers, but they show tenderness towards members of their family.

They do not like to be cuddled or placed on laps; they much prefer to sit next to a person, sing songs to him, and they love to be stroked and scratched. If a person tries to cuddle or kiss a “Norwegian”, he will quickly and clearly make it clear that he cannot stand such “tenderness”.

Representatives of this breed fully justify their name, which can be translated into Russian as “rag doll.” These are phlegmatic people who allow you to do whatever you want with them: squeeze, kiss, comb, carry in your arms. Although this fluffy miracle cannot be carried around much: a Ragdoll cat can reach a weight of 10 kilograms or more.

These blue-eyed, soft-furred creatures are descendants of Persian, Angora and Burmese cats. Very friendly, calm and non-conflict purrs. They don’t like to hunt: it’s beneath their dignity, and they’re just too lazy. Perfect for apartment living.

A distinctive feature of this breed is not only its large size (up to 7 kg), but also its short curled tail, reminiscent of a pompom. The description of the standard states that the tail should be from 3 to 8 cm in length and have several bends.

The homeland of these cats is the islands of the Kuril ridge, so they are not afraid of water, easily tolerate low temperatures, and know how and love to fish.

By nature, Kuril Bobtails are in many ways reminiscent of dogs: they are strongly attached to their owner (they choose only one, maximum two family members in this capacity), smart, inquisitive, and active. Such cats and dogs love games, for example, chasing a ball or a stick, many of them enjoy walking in a harness.

Pixie bob

These rather large cats can reach a weight of 8 kg, obtained artificially by Canadian breeders. The purpose of breeding was to obtain a breed suitable for domestic living and with external characteristics American red lynx.

For this purpose, short-tailed forest cats living in North America, and various breeds of domestic cats. The result was large pixie-bobs, which are also called short-tailed elves (after the first representative of the breed - Pixie, which means “fairy” or “elf”).

Despite the fact that outwardly cats of this breed look quite formidable, they are the sweetest creatures, they are extremely tactful, love tenderness, but do not require excessive attention.

This is one of the oldest breeds of domesticated cats. Vans are of natural origin, unlike many large cats, artificial selection has nothing to do with them. Their homeland is part of Turkey, the vicinity of Lake Van. The name of the breed comes from this toponym.

Adults reach a height of 0.4 m, a length from 0.9 to 1.2 m. Weight can be up to 9-10 kg.

The traditional color of the Van cat is considered to be a rich apricot color of the coat, and on the tail there are several rings of a more saturated shade.

A characteristic feature is complete absence hydrophobia, which is common in most domestic breeds. They love to play with streams of water, listen to their murmur, and can get completely into the water.

They have no undercoat, and the coat repels water and dries quickly. Thanks to this feature, they are excellent fishermen. They are very energetic, love to run and jump, involving people in their games. Their character is quite friendly, but they can demonstrate remarkable temper when they don’t like something.

If an animal is accustomed to a harness from childhood, then you can take it for walks: Vans love this very much, as they are very curious and active.

The energy of Vans should be taken into account by those who are planning to have a pet of this breed: they need to be played and exercised with them often, constantly updating their set of toys.

These short-haired beauties can be very large, their weight reaches 9-10 kg. In certain circles it is believed that Carroll's Cheshire Cat belonged to this breed (or they are his descendants).

British kitten

They are characterized by phlegmatic, sedate, balanced, sometimes excessive. Because of their qualities, they tend to gain excess body weight. At the same time, the British have a distinct character, and some representatives can even be quite aggressive.

Distinctive feature All large breeds have a fairly high intelligence. Big cats, as a rule, are very peaceful, do not like conflicts, do not impose themselves, understand everything and become true friends of humans - very devoted and faithful. Keeping such a pet at home is a pleasure.

Today, the Maine Coon occupies the palm among large breeds of domestic cats. Tough, strong, hardy and very beautiful, cats of this breed have won love and recognition all over the world. And their peaceful nature and high intelligence, in contrast with their “wild” appearance, make them truly unique!

The largest domestic cat breed in the world

According to legend, Maine Coons are descended from raccoons.

A more plausible story of the origin of this breed is the crossing of local shorthair cats with long-haired cats brought by sailors from long voyages. Living conditions and the mixing of genes made it possible to obtain a unique combination of a predatory appearance and an absolutely calm and peaceful character.

When did the largest domestic cat appear?

The first mention of Maine Coons was recorded in the second half of the 19th century, but they only gained real popularity in 1963, when the club for lovers of this breed was officially opened.

The first mention of Maine Coons was recorded in the second half of the 19th century.

Since then, nurseries began to rapidly appear all over the world, which began to breed and popularize Maine Coons.

Breed standards: appearance features

Due to their large size and appearance, Maine Coons are often called domestic lynx.

And this is not surprising: the weight of an adult male ranges from 12–16 kg, sometimes reaching 20 kg, while females weigh slightly less. Cats of this breed develop slowly, reaching full maturity and, accordingly, power only by the age of five.

The weight of an adult male ranges from 12–16 kg.

These domestic giants have a number of other features:

The head is large , with sharp, straight lines, a flat skull and high cheekbones. The chin is massive, with long vibrissae. Of particular importance for the breed is correct bite. The bridge of the nose is wide, massive, the nose is of medium length. Long mustache.

The eyes are big , round in shape, set wide, slightly elongated towards the ears. The most common color: yellow or green. However, there are specimens with blue eyes, which is allowed by the standards.

The calling card of the breed is large ears with tassels , like a lynx. However, their complete absence is also within normal limits. The skin on the ears is very dense and reliably covered with thick hair. The ears are wide and pointed, the distance between them should correspond to the width of one ear.

Body large , muscular, elongated, shaped like a rectangle, with a well-developed wide chest and strong paws of medium length.

Fingertips rounded, wide, somewhat reminiscent of snowshoes. Fur grows between the toes, allowing the animals not to freeze in the snow and silently sneak up on their prey.

The tail is long , wide at the base and tapering towards the end, very fluffy. It should be the same length as the body, which allows large predators to maintain balance during sudden movements. Any kinks that indicate genetic defects are unacceptable.

Wool length is uneven : Shorter on the shoulders, head and paws, and much longer on the sides, back and belly. The soft undercoat is very thick and has waterproof qualities. A distinctive feature of the breed is the luxurious, very lush collar area, as well as the area on hind legs. The coat is silky, as if flowing, but at the same time very dense.

Color allows for many variations : striped, plain, smoky, with spots on the body or rare spots on a white background. There is a taboo only on chocolate, lilac, Siamese colors and their combinations.

Character and behavioral characteristics

Despite its impressive size and somewhat threatening appearance, Maine Coons have very calm, balanced and affectionate character . However, their natural restraint and accuracy does not prevent them from being energetic and active.

Maine Coons have a calm and balanced character.

A distinctive feature of representatives of this breed is their independence and complete self-sufficiency : they will not follow the owner’s heels and ask to be “handled.” Rather, they will simply sit down comfortably somewhere nearby and watch what is happening, without distracting household members from their usual activities.

Maine Coon and children

Maine Coons get along well with other animals and children, and are not prone to displays of jealousy or aggression, especially towards members of their “family”.

Maine Coons are great with children.

You will especially like their natural unpretentiousness and unobtrusiveness. business people, because you don’t have to worry that a pet gets bored in the absence of the owner: coons know very well how and what to do with themselves.

conclusions

Excellent hunters, cats of this breed have a phenomenal memory, and easily remember not only commands, but even intonations. High level intelligence puts Maine Coons on the same level as many dog breeds, such as Labradors.

Maine Coons are excellent hunters.

Video about Maine Coon cats