The Maine Coon is a feline giant, admired for its striking appearance and gentle demeanor. These cats can weigh up to 18 pounds and stretch up to 40 inches in length. They’re the largest breed of cat recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association, but did you know there’s another feline that outshines them in size? Believe it or not, it’s true.
Size matters in the world of cats, and while the Maine Coon is undoubtedly impressive, it comes in second place when it comes to size. The Savannah cat breed holds the title for being the world’s largest domesticated cat. With their massive size and unique features, these stunning creatures can weigh up to 25 pounds and measure over 60 inches in length.
But what exactly is a Savannah cat? How did they become so big? In this post, we’ll delve into the history and characteristics of this exotic breed. We’ll explore their enormous size and fascinating features, as well as examine the benefits and drawbacks of owning a feline that’s bigger than some dogs. So put on your exploring hats because we’re about to embark on an adventure into the intriguing world of Savannah cats.
What is the Maine Coon?
The Maine Coon: The Majestic Feline of the United States
Are you looking for a feline companion that is large in size, friendly in nature, and possesses a unique set of physical features? Look no further than the Maine Coon. Originating in the state of Maine, these domestic cats are one of the oldest natural breeds in North America and were even declared as the official state cat of Maine in 1985.
The Maine Coon is known for its impressive size, with males averaging between 13-18 pounds and females averaging between 8-12 pounds. Although other cat breeds like the Ragdoll, Savannah cat, Norwegian Forest Cat, and Siberian cat may be larger in terms of height and weight, none can surpass the Maine Coon’s distinctive physical features.
Their defining characteristic is their long, bushy tail which they use for balance and to keep warm during colder climates. Additionally, their thick water-resistant coat is perfect for colder temperatures, making them well-suited for rural areas.
But it’s not just their appearance that makes these felines stand out. Their personalities are equally charming. They are gentle giants with a friendly and outgoing nature. They are excellent companions for families with children or other pets, and they have a strong hunting instinct to catch prey.
Ragdoll – The Biggest Domestic Cat Breed
If you’re searching for a lovable feline companion that can give you big hugs and endless cuddles, look no further than the Ragdoll – the biggest domestic cat breed in the world.
These magnificent cats are known for their remarkable size, with males weighing between 15 and 20 pounds and females weighing between 10 and 15 pounds. Their striking blue eyes and soft, silky fur are just a few of the many features that make them so endearing.
The Ragdoll’s gentle nature sets it apart from other large cat breeds, like the Maine Coon. They are docile and easygoing, making them perfect for families with children or singles looking for a loyal companion. Ragdolls love nothing more than snuggling up with their owners and showering them with affection.
One of the reasons why Ragdolls are so big is due to their continued growth until they reach four years old. Their muscular bodies have broad chests and sturdy legs, which make them not only large but also agile.
If you’re concerned about grooming a cat of this size, don’t worry. While Ragdolls do need some maintenance to keep their fur in top condition, they are relatively low-maintenance pets overall. Plus, their friendly personalities make them a joy to care for.
Ragdolls were first bred in California in the 1960s by Ann Baker, who wanted to create a cat breed that was large, gentle, and easy to handle. Baker crossed several breeds, including Persians, Siamese, and Birman cats, to develop the Ragdoll.
Savannah Cat – A Mix of Domestic and African Serval
Look no further than the captivating Savannah cat – a hybrid breed that is a mix between a domestic cat and an African Serval.
These cats are known for their stunning spotted coats and impressive size, weighing anywhere from 8 to 20 pounds, and some males reaching up to a whopping 25 pounds. This puts the Savannah cat above the average Maine Coon, which is already one of the largest domestic cat breeds globally.
Apart from their impressive size, Savannah cats are also recognized for their long legs and lean build, giving them a wild appearance that will undoubtedly turn heads. Due to their active nature, these feline companions require plenty of exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy.
Additionally, owning a Savannah cat may not be legal in all areas, so it’s important to do thorough research before considering bringing one home.
Norwegian Forest Cat – Muscular Build and Thick Fur Coat
Look no further than the Norwegian Forest Cat. This majestic breed of cat boasts a muscular build and a thick fur coat that make them stand out among other breeds.
But why do Norwegian Forest Cats have such a sturdy build and luxurious fur coat? It all goes back to their roots. These cats were originally bred for survival in the unforgiving climate of Norway, which demanded them to be bigger and stronger than other cat breeds. Their robust builds allowed them to navigate the wilderness with ease, while their thick fur coats kept them warm in the biting cold.
Despite their rugged lineage, Norwegian Forest Cats are friendly and playful companions. They adore being around people and are renowned for their loyalty to their owners. They are also intelligent creatures that can be trained to do tricks or even walk on a leash.
When it comes to grooming, these cats do require some upkeep due to their long fur. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting and tangles, but their fur coat doesn’t demand as much attention as some other long-haired breeds.
Siberian Cat – Long, Thick Fur Coat and Powerful Build
Look no further than the Siberian cat. This breed is renowned for its long, thick fur coat and muscular build, making them appear larger and more formidable than other feline breeds.
Originating in Russia, Siberian cats have been bred for centuries as working cats that hunt rodents and other small animals. With their broad chest and muscular physique, these cats are natural-born hunters. But what sets them apart is their luxurious fur that helps keep them warm in the harsh Russian winters. With a range of colors including brown tabby, black, and white, Siberian cats also sport tufted ears and bushy tails that add to their regal appearance.
But Siberian cats are more than just their striking looks. They are also becoming increasingly popular as pets due to their hypoallergenic qualities. Unlike other cat breeds that produce high levels of allergens, Siberians produce less of the protein that causes allergic reactions. This makes them an ideal choice for anyone who loves cats but suffers from allergies.
In terms of size, Siberian cats can weigh up to 20 pounds or more, making them one of the largest domestic cat breeds. While they may be smaller or larger than some Maine Coons, Siberian cats still maintain their imposing presence and strength.
Also Read: Maine Coon Vs. Napoleon Cat?
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Maine Coon is undoubtedly a majestic giant of the feline world, there are other breeds that surpass it in size and physical features. One such breed is the Savannah cat, a hybrid between a domestic and African Serval cat. These stunning creatures can weigh up to 25 pounds and measure over 60 inches in length, making them the world’s largest domesticated cat.
But the Savannah cat isn’t the only one to rival the Maine Coon. The Ragdoll, for instance, is known for its remarkable size and gentle nature. Males can weigh between 15-20 pounds and females between 10-15 pounds, making them the biggest domestic cat breed in the world.
Then there’s the Norwegian Forest Cat, bred for survival in harsh climates with their muscular build and thick fur coat. Despite their rugged lineage, they make friendly and playful companions.
And let’s not forget about the Siberian Cat, which appears larger than other feline breeds due to its long, thick fur coat and muscular build. They’re becoming increasingly popular as pets due to their hypoallergenic qualities.
In summary, there are several cat breeds that rival or even surpass the Maine Coon in size and physical features. Each breed has its unique characteristics that make them stand out among others.
