The Purrfect Guide: 13 Big Cat Breeds to Consider as Your Next Feline Family Member

At first glance, cats may seem like small pets, but there are actually many large cat breeds that are substantial animals. While they may not be as massive as lions, these felines are larger than most petite wildcats around the world. Despite their wild instincts, these large breeds have an excellent reputation as pets. However, it’s important to keep in mind that pet cats are only domesticated to a certain extent and their DNA is similar to their wild counterparts. According to John Gray’s book Feline Philosophy: Cats and the Meaning of Life, cats joined human society “on their own terms” thousands of years ago. Even though they have lived with humans for centuries, domesticated cats still exhibit untamed behavior and instincts, such as hunting and adapting to new environments. Unlike dogs, cats don’t conform to hierarchies or follow commands, as they don’t see humans as their alpha leader. Only lions are known to live in groups among big cats. So, when owning a cat, you may find yourself being considered the pet, rather than the other way around. It’s important to accept this fact and humble ourselves to our feline companions.

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The British Shorthair is a feline breed that boasts a coat that is short and dense. These cats can reach a height of 12-14 inches and their weight can range from 7-17 pounds, depending on their gender. The lifespan of this breed typically ranges between 12 to 20 years. Their demeanor is calm and affectionate, making them ideal for families with young children or seniors who want a snug companion. Although the blue-grey color is standard for this breed, there are many variations in colors and patterns. For British Shorthair owners, investing in comfortable beds may be more critical than cat condos because these cats love to catch some shut-eye!

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The Chausie is a fascinating cat breed due to its adventurous and intelligent nature. With a height of 13-17 inches and weight ranging from 8-13 pounds (females) and 13-19 pounds (males), they have short and dense coats that come in various colors like brown and tan. These cats can live up to 12-18 years, making them great long-term companions. To keep them happy, it’s important to provide them with plenty of opportunities to explore and stay active. You can even train them to wear a harness and enjoy outdoor adventures or teach them tricks. Given their high activity levels, Chausies may need more calories than other breeds like the British Shorthair. They are like miniature cougars, always on the prowl, and exploring their surroundings.

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The Maine Coon is an ideal type of cat that can easily withstand cold winters in the American Northeast. Despite their massive size, long tails, and big ears, these felines are friendly and playful towards children. They are social creatures that love to engage in various activities and become part of the family. Their silky fur comes in different colors, and they can live up to 12-20 years. If you want an intelligent and affectionate cat breed to be your companion, then the Maine Coon may suit your preferences perfectly.

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The Norwegian Forest cat is a unique breed that stands at around 9-12 inches tall and weighs between 8-12 pounds for females and 12-18 pounds for males. They sport a luscious double coat that is rough to the touch, which comes in a variety of colors, although their white and tabby mix is famous. These independent yet affectionate cats have a life expectancy of 13-20 years and were once utilized to keep rodents away from Viking ships. They make excellent family pets, but they require their own space, including scratching posts and climbing towers. Although they enjoy snuggling with their human companions, it’s best not to force them into it. Instead, relish their company as they will likely follow you wherever you go.

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The Pixiebob cat breed is popular for their energetic and devoted nature, making them ideal companions for families with children and other animals. These cats come in different hues like brown, tan, and tabby, with both short and long hair types. Their height can vary between 9-13 inches, and female Pixiebobs usually weigh between 9-11 pounds, whereas the males can weigh up to 14 pounds. With a life span of 13-15 years, Pixiebobs require regular grooming to keep their thick coats and bobbed tails in good condition and prevent tangling and matting.

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The Ragamuffin, a breed of cat, can reach a height of 10-15 inches and a weight of 8-13 pounds for females and 14-20 pounds for males. Their coats are soft, dense, and come in various colors, ranging from medium to long. These cats have a lifespan of 12-16 years and are known for their affectionate and patient nature, making them great companions for children. They love playtime with their favorite person and enjoy snuggling, similar to British Shorthairs. It’s important to keep Ragamuffins indoors for their safety, as they tend to trust and love easily. Don’t forget to provide them with toys to keep them entertained!

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The Ragdoll feline breed is known for being affectionate and easy-going, which makes it a perfect choice for families with kids and individuals searching for a companion animal. These cats have a fluffy, long coat with pointed coloring on their extremities and a white body. They are considerably large, reaching up to 11 inches in height and weighing between 10-15 pounds for females and 15-20 pounds for males. Their piercing blue eyes are particularly striking. Unlike the British Shorthair breed, Ragdolls adore being held and carried but require interactive playtime to avoid gaining excess weight. They have a relatively long lifespan of 13-18 years.

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The Savannah cat is a unique breed known for its impressive height and agility. They can reach heights of 10-17 inches and weigh between 11-23 pounds, depending on gender. Their coat has a coarse texture and typically comes in black and brown spots, with short-to-medium length fur. These cats have a lifespan of 12-15 years.
Savannah cats are outgoing and energetic with a sense of adventure, likely due to their domestic and wild African serval hybrid ancestry. However, it’s important to note that some states in the US do not allow this breed due to their wild heritage.
Interestingly, the three most recent Tallest Domestic Cat winners in the Guinness Book of World Records have been Savannahs. Despite their tall stature, these cats have a long and lean build, and enjoy exploring new environments and high perches.

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The Siberian feline is a well-known breed due to its impressive strength and friendly demeanor. This breed originated from Russia and boasts a long, triple-layered coat that provides warmth and protection. Interestingly, some individuals who are allergic to cats have discovered that Siberians are hypoallergenic, although this may not be true for all. As a rule, Siberians make great pets that are laid-back and smart, and they love playing with their owners. Nevertheless, their intelligence can occasionally lead them astray as they have a talent for sneaking into small spaces. Siberian cats live an average of 10-18 years and make superb companions for those seeking a devoted and affectionate furry buddy.

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The Turkish Van breed of cats is a lively and daring feline with a unique personality. Their coat is moderately to long, soft, and they are typically white with red, cream, black, or blue markings on their head and tail. These cats can grow up to 10-14 inches tall and weigh between 10-20 pounds. Turkish Vans are known to be socially intelligent and active, always seeking their next thrill. To keep them amused, they require toys that provide mental stimulation as they tend to get bored quickly. These cats love high places and can be found perched on bookshelves and other elevated surfaces. Even though these cats are rare, if you get the opportunity to meet or adopt them, consider yourself fortunate.

Purrfect Feline Companions: 13 Big Cat Breeds for Your Home

The Persian feline breed is known for its luxurious, shiny coat and can grow up to a height of 10-15 inches and weigh around 7-12 pounds. Its coat can come in various colors, such as black, cream, red, and different patterns. These cats have a life expectancy of 15-20 years and are known for their gentle nature, although they can be shy around unfamiliar people.

However, taking care of a Persian cat requires extra effort when it comes to grooming. The cat’s hair tends to be quite dramatic, so it’s essential to be equipped with a vacuum, lint brush, and pet brush before bringing one home. To manage the hair properly, it’s best to take your cat for grooming every six weeks or so. You can also seek advice from the groomer for tips on how to maintain your cat’s coat.

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