Large cats are known for their calm, cuddly, and easygoing personalities. In this article, we will talk about 6 of the most popular large cat breeds. We are sure that you will fall in love with every single one of them! Let’s start with the Maine Coon!
Maine Coon, one of the largest cat breeds in the world
To begin with, the Maine Coon is one of the most famous large cat breeds.
Physical characteristics of the Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is undoubtedly the largest cat. In the winter, their coats are long and dense. They even have a beautiful mane that makes them look sort of like a lion. In the summer, however, their coat is not as long and fluffy. When it comes to their coat color, there is a wide variety of colors that are accepted by Maine Coon breed standards.
The largest known Maine Coon measures 121.9 cm (around 3 ft 10 in) and weighs about 11 kg (around 24.3 lbs).
The ultimate purr machine
The Maine Coon is the ultimate purr machine. This family cat is particularly affectionate and tender-hearted. They truly enjoy human presence. In addition, the Maine Coon has a great deal of self-confidence. If you are patient, you can even walk a Maine Coon on a leash out in the snow. This is because Maine Coons grow hair in the middle of the paw pads.
Origins of the Maine Coon
As its name suggests, the Maine Coon originated in Maine, a state located in the northeastern part of the United States. Winters can get very cold there. Maine Coons are called “coons” because there is a legend saying that they were crossed with raccoons. What we do know is that Maine Coons were not created by man. It is a natural breed.
Norwegian Forest cat, the attention seeker
These cats are considered gentle giants. It is one of the most well-known large cat breeds.
Physical characteristics
The Norsk Skogkatt, which translates to Norwegian Forest cat, is a strong and powerful cat breed. It has a double coat with a shorter undercoat that protects it from snow. Its longer, waterproof coat protects it from rain. The tufts of hair between its toes are a feature of many long-haired cats. Its head is triangular with a pointed muzzle. Its profile is straight.
Attention seekers
These big-hearted, gentle felines are very close to their owners. They have kept their hunting instincts while adapting to life with humans. Norwegian Forest cats can live well in an apartment. They are very playful cats but they know how to remain calm and serene. However, the Norwegian Forest cat likes to be taken care of and needs attention. They love being brushed, so you can bond with your Norwegian Forest cat by brushing them.
The Viking origins of the Norwegian Forest cat
The Norwegian Forest cat was present in Norse mythology and was most likely brought from the Middle East by the Vikings. In the 1960s, cats were taken from Norwegian forests to create a breed. Since then, breeders have continued to preserve the natural characteristics of the Norwegian Forest cat.
Ragdoll, the gentle giant
Ragdolls are large but well-balanced cats. They are gentle and particularly adaptable.
Physical characteristics of the Ragdoll
The Ragdoll has intense blue eyes and a colorpoint coat, meaning that its muzzle, ears, legs, and tail are darker than the rest of its body. However, the Ragdoll can also be mitted or bi-colored. Ragdolls have eyes that are inverted triangles, emphasizing the beauty of their eyes. In addition, their coat requires little brushing. It is semi-long, without an undercoat.
Sociable and patient cats
As the Ragdoll gets very attached to humans, it loves to be petted and cuddled by all the members of its family. Sociable and welcoming, this soft feline is also very patient with children. Therefore, life in an apartment suits it very well. Furthmore, they are calm and do not mind being held. In addition to all that, they don’t mind living with other animals. In fact, they actually enjoy it.
The Californian origins of the Ragdoll
The origins of this soft cat are well known. In the 60s in California, a Persian breeder, Ann Baker, rescued a half-wild cat hit by a car. Ann Baker claimed that Josephine has undergone a change in character and that was because of the accident. She stated that the veterinary clinic where Josephine was treated had genetically modified her. Josephine’s litters were particularity gentle, like a ragdoll. For this reason, they were named Ragdolls in English.
Turkish Van, the water lover
The Turkish Van is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world. Fun fact: this cat breed enjoys the water.
Physical characteristics of the Turkish Van
This large white cat has a triangular head with high cheekbones and expressive eyes. The Turkish Van is mostly white but its tail is colored. When it comes to the texture of its fur, it is reminiscent of cashmere. When the seasons change, the appearance of this cat does as well. It sheds a lot and needs to be brushed daily.
Turkish Vans are shy cats
While the Turkish Van has existed for a long time now, it has been domesticated very recenly. For this reason, the Turkish Van needs time to fully trust people. However, once they do decide to trust you, the Turkish Van can be one of the most cuddly and faithful cat breeds. This cat likes living in a house and living with a loving family.
Origins of the Turkish Van
Originally from Mount Ararat in Turkey where Noah’s ark is said to have been stranded, this mountain cat has kept its very muscular paws. It is the national cat of Turkey.
Siberian, the calm cat
This cat is large with a lot of fur. The Siberian is one of the most massive cats.
Physical characteristics of the Siberian
Like the Maine Coon, the Norwegian Forest cat and the Turkish Van, the Siberian is a natural cat, not created by man. Its large head, rounded forehead, and round eyes make it stand out. This breed is used to the extreme cold because they have a protective undercoat and longer hair. Its colorpoint variant is called Neva Masquerade.
A big cat with a big heart
Like all big cats, the Siberian is a rather calm cat breed. However, it requires a lot of attention from its owners. Robust and very agile, this cat breed has adapted well to a peaceful life and loves to spend time with its owner being cuddled in an apartment or in a house.
Origins of the Siberian
As its name suggests, the Siberian cat comes from the Siberian countryside. It’s important to note that for decades in Russia, owning a pet was prohibited. For this reason, Siberians lived on farms and fed on their prey. It was not until 1997 that the Siberian was officially recognized by the FIFe (Fédération Internationale Féline).
Birman, the elegant cat
This cat breed originated in France and is one of the largest cat breeds. They have a rare elegance that makes that very unique.
Physical characteristics of the Birman
The Birman has intense blue eyes and small round head that makes it look elegant. Its fur is colorpoint, but its paws are white, like small slippers. To prevent knots, its coat should be brushed regularly.
Birmans are great communicators
The Birman is always ready to play and is the perfect companion. In addition, when they want something, they know how to make themselves understood. Similar to other large cats, this cat loves to cuddle. They love curling up next to their human companions!
Origins of the Birman
This legendary cat is the result of a cross between a Persian and a white-gloved Siamese from French breeders. From the 1920s to today, breeders have created different coats. With that being said, the main characteristics of the Birman do not change. For example, they always keep their famous eyes and white feet.