Pet Care •

April 17, 2024

PetSafe® Expert

PetSafe® Guest

Imagine a feline friend who not only fills your home with love but also commands their space with grace and majesty. Large cats offer just that – a larger-than-life presence coupled with the affectionate and playful nature we adore in all cats. At PetSafe, we're dedicated to enhancing the lives of pets and their families through innovative products and thoughtful care tips. In this guide, we'll introduce you to ten majestic big cat breeds that are sure to capture your heart and maybe even take over your couch!

#1 Maine Coon

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The Maine Coon, affectionately known as America’s gentle giant, is not only one of the largest domesticated cat breeds but also one of the most personable. With their distinctive bushy tails, tufted ears, and majestic coats, Maine Coons are truly a sight to behold. But their size is matched by their heart, making them perfect companions for families and individuals alike.

Characteristics and Care

Weight: 10–18 pounds

Height: 10–16 inches

Personality

Known for their friendly, sociable nature, Maine Coons are often compared to dogs in their loyalty and affection for their human companions. They are intelligent, trainable, and love interactive play.

Care Needs

Their thick, water-repellent coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Despite their large size, Maine Coons are adaptable and can thrive in various living environments.

Maine Coons are more than just their striking appearance. Their playful antics and affectionate nature make them ideal pets for those willing to invest the time in grooming and interactive play. They're particularly great with children and other pets, making them a fantastic addition to any family looking to grow their furry family.

#2 Savannah

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Savannah Cats, known for their striking appearance and dynamic personality, blend domestic cat grace with the wild aesthetics of the African Serval. These cats are a dream for those who adore the exotic look of wild cats but appreciate the temperament of domestic breeds.

Characteristics and Care

Weight: 12–25 pounds

Height: 10–17 inches

Personality

Savannahs are energetic, intelligent, and loyal. They form strong bonds with their people, often following them around the house and participating in family activities. Their incredible jumping ability can reach heights up to 8 feet!

Care Needs

These cats have relatively low-maintenance short coats. However, their active nature means they require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy.

Savannah Cats combine the beauty of the wild with the affection and playfulness of domestic cats, making them an extraordinary breed for the right family. Their need for activity and engagement makes them well-suited to homes where they can be an integral part of daily life.

#3 Ragdoll

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Ragdoll Cats, with their striking blue eyes and silky fur, are the ultimate lap cats. Renowned for their docile nature and tendency to relax completely when held, the Ragdoll is a gentle giant in the cat world, combining a large size with a loving heart.

Characteristics and Care

Weight: 10–20 pounds

Height: 9–11 inches

Personality

Ragdolls are famous for their serene demeanor and affectionate behavior. They seek human companionship, often welcoming their people at the door and shadowing them. They enjoy interactive play and loving moments.

Care Needs

Their luxurious coat needs regular grooming. As indoor cats, Ragdolls appreciate a secure and comfortable environment.

Ragdolls are ideal for anyone seeking a gentle, loving companion. Their beauty and calm nature make them delightful family members.

#4 Norwegian Forest Cat

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Emerging from Nordic lore, the Norwegian Forest Cat, or "Wegie," carries the mystique of ancient legends. With a rugged appearance and a lineage that includes being Viking companions, their majestic coats and striking looks make them a standout breed.

Characteristics and Care

Weight: 12–20 pounds

Height: 9–12 inches

Personality

Known for their calm, friendly nature, Wegies enjoy family life but appreciate their independence. They display bursts of energy, especially when climbing.

Care Needs

Their water-resistant double coat needs regular grooming. While they enjoy exploring, they're adaptable to indoor environments, given enough space.

Norwegian Forest Cats bring a touch of the wild to any home, balancing their striking appearance with a warm, sociable temperament, enriching homes with their presence.

#5 Bengal

Credits: Igor Karimov 🇺🇦 / Unsplash

Bengal Cats, with their remarkably wild appearance and lively personality, captivate those seeking an extraordinary feline companion. Their leopard-like spots and active nature bring the thrill of the wild into the comfort of home.

Characteristics and Care

Weight: 8–18 pounds

Height: 8–10 inches

Personality

Bengals are curious and energetic, enjoying interactive play and exploration. They're known to be fascinated by water.

Care Needs

Their sleek coat is low maintenance but enjoys a good brush. They require mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

Bengals offer both the beauty of wild cats and the affectionate nature of domestic companions, making them a fascinating breed for any home ready for adventure and beauty.

#6 Siberian

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From Russia's dense forests, the Siberian Cat emerges as a breed of robust health and playful spirit, all wrapped in a majestic, fluffy coat. Siberians bring a piece of the wilderness into the home with their friendly and adventurous spirits.

Characteristics and Care

Weight: 10–20 pounds

Height: 9–11 inches

Personality

Siberians are sociable, affectionate, and enjoy being part of family activities. They're known for their loyalty and playful nature.

Care Needs

The luxurious triple coat needs regular grooming. Despite their love for adventure, they adapt well to indoor life with adequate stimulation.

Siberians are gentle giants that bring warmth, joy, and a touch of wild beauty into the home, fitting seamlessly into family life with their adaptable and affectionate nature.

#7 American Bobtail

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The American Bobtail, with a distinctive wild look and a bobbed tail, offers a taste of the American wilderness. Known for their adaptability and friendly disposition, they make excellent companions for a wide range of families.

Characteristics and Care

Weight: 7–16 pounds

Height: 9–10 inches

Personality

American Bobtails are playful, affectionate, and bond deeply with their families. They are especially good with children and other pets, displaying a dog-like loyalty.

Care Needs

Their coat is manageable with minimal grooming, but they thrive on interactive play and mental stimulation.

American Bobtails are perfect for those seeking a strong personality and moderate care needs in a cat that seamlessly integrates into the family.

#8 Ragamuffin

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Ragamuffins are celebrated for their incredibly affectionate nature and plush coats. They embody the term "gentle giant" with their soft personalities and large, expressive eyes, forming deep bonds with their families.

Characteristics and Care

Weight: 8–20 pounds

Height: 9–12 inches

Personality

Known for being sweet and loving, Ragamuffins are perfect companions for those who cherish close bonds with their pets. They enjoy interactive play and cuddle sessions.

Care Needs

Their luxurious fur requires regular grooming. As indoor cats, they thrive on attention and affection.

Ragamuffins are not just pets; they're devoted family members who share in your life's joys and comfort you in times of need with a purr and a cuddle.

#9 Persian

Credits: Petra Bouchalova / Unsplash

The Persian Cat is a prime example of feline elegance and serenity, captivating cat lovers with their luxurious coats and peaceful personalities. Persians are treasures that add grace and tranquility to any home.

Characteristics and Care

Weight: 7–12 pounds

Height: 8–10 inches

Personality

Persians embody the essence of a lap cat, preferring quiet environments where they can relax in luxury.

Care Needs

Their beautiful coat demands daily grooming. Suited to indoor living, they flourish in calm surroundings.

Persians offer a piece of living art, providing quiet companionship and a touch of luxury, their timeless elegance making them a cherished breed among enthusiasts.

#10 Turkish Van

Credits: Mohamed-Fadel Lakhmi / Unsplash

Turkish Vans, known for their rarity and exceptional character, are distinguished by a love of water and a striking patterned coat. Originating from Turkey, this energetic and loyal breed offers a unique blend of playfulness and beauty.

Characteristics and Care

Weight: 8–18 pounds

Height: 10–14 inches

Personality

Turkish Vans are known for their energy, intelligence, and loyalty. They enjoy water and are playful companions.

Care Needs

Their semi-long coat is easy to groom, but they require space and stimulation for exploration and play.

Turkish Vans stand out as more than just pets; they're dynamic companions eager to bring energy and joy into their homes. Their unique combination of playfulness, loyalty, and distinctive appearance makes them an intriguing choice for cat lovers seeking a breed that defies the ordinary.

Finding the Right Large Cat Breed for Your Family

Each large cat breed carries its own unique allure, and choosing the right one for your family's lifestyle is crucial for a harmonious home. It's important to consider not just the physical space you have but also the time, energy, and love you can share with your new companion. Remember, a happy cat is one that is understood, cared for, and cherished as a true member of the family.

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