What Are The Big Cats Called Pets? A Comprehensive Guide

What Are The Big Cats Called Pets? Discover fascinating insights into owning larger feline breeds with PETS.EDU.VN, providing solutions for understanding and caring for these magnificent animals, alongside expert advice on feline well-being and veterinary health. Explore our educational resources and unlock a wealth of knowledge on majestic feline companions, large cat breeds, and exotic pets.

1. Understanding the Allure of Large Cat Breeds

Many cat lovers are captivated by the imposing size and distinct characteristics of large cat breeds. But what are the big cats called pets? While true “big cats” like lions and tigers are absolutely not suitable as pets, several domestic cat breeds boast impressive sizes and captivating personalities. This article explores these domestic giants, offering insights into their care, temperament, and suitability as companions. Large cat breeds offer a unique blend of cuddly companionship and majestic presence.

1.1. Defining “Big” in the Cat World

When we ask, “What are the big cats called pets,” it’s crucial to define what “big” means in the context of domestic cats. A typical house cat weighs around 8-10 pounds. Large breeds, however, can easily reach 15-20 pounds or even more. This significant size difference comes with specific considerations regarding space, food, and exercise.

1.2. The Appeal of Owning a Large Cat Breed

There are several reasons why people are drawn to large cat breeds:

Impressive Appearance: Their size and often striking features like tufted ears or long, flowing fur make them visually stunning.
Unique Personalities: Many large breeds are known for their playful, affectionate, and even dog-like personalities.
Companionship: Despite their size, they can be incredibly cuddly and devoted companions.
Conversation Starters: Owning a large cat breed is definitely a conversation starter!

2. Top Large Cat Breeds You Can Consider as Pets

Now that we’ve established the allure of large cat breeds, let’s delve into some popular options. Here’s a curated list of breeds commonly considered when asking, “What are the big cats called pets?”:

2.1. Maine Coon: The Gentle Giant

The Maine Coon is often called the “gentle giant” of the cat world, and for good reason. These affectionate cats can weigh between 10 and 20 pounds, with some males exceeding even that.

Temperament: Maine Coons are known for their playful, gentle, and tolerant nature. They are great with children and other pets.
Grooming: Their long, thick fur requires regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles.
Health: Maine Coons are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Responsible breeders screen for these conditions.

2.2. Ragdoll: The Floppy Friend

Ragdolls are another popular large breed, known for their docile and relaxed personalities. They get their name from their tendency to go limp when picked up.

Temperament: Ragdolls are incredibly affectionate and love to be around their humans. They are often described as “dog-like” in their loyalty.
Grooming: Their semi-long fur is relatively easy to care for, requiring weekly brushing.
Health: Ragdolls are also prone to HCM, so it’s important to choose a breeder who screens for this condition.

2.3. Norwegian Forest Cat: The Viking Cat

The Norwegian Forest Cat is a sturdy, muscular breed with a thick, water-resistant coat. They were originally bred to survive the harsh Scandinavian winters.

Temperament: Norwegian Forest Cats are intelligent, playful, and independent. They enjoy climbing and exploring.
Grooming: Their thick coat requires regular brushing, especially during shedding season.
Health: They are generally a healthy breed, but can be prone to hip dysplasia and glycogen storage disease IV.

2.4. Siberian: The Hypoallergenic Option

Siberians are another long-haired breed originating from Russia. They are known for their playful and affectionate personalities, as well as their relatively hypoallergenic coats.

Temperament: Siberians are social, intelligent, and adaptable. They are good with children and other pets.
Grooming: Their thick coat requires regular brushing.
Health: Siberians are generally healthy, but can be prone to HCM.

2.5. Turkish Van: The Swimming Cat

The Turkish Van is a unique breed known for its love of water. They are strong, athletic cats with a distinctive color pattern: white body with colored markings on the head and tail.

Temperament: Turkish Vans are intelligent, playful, and energetic. They require plenty of stimulation and exercise.
Grooming: Their semi-long fur is relatively easy to care for.
Health: They are generally a healthy breed, but can be prone to HCM.

2.6. Savannah: The Exotic Hybrid

The Savannah cat is a hybrid breed resulting from a cross between a domestic cat and a serval, a medium-sized African wild cat. These cats are known for their striking appearance and energetic personalities.

Temperament: Savannahs are intelligent, active, and curious. They require a lot of attention and stimulation.
Grooming: Their short coat requires minimal grooming.
Health: Savannahs are generally healthy, but their hybrid status can sometimes lead to health issues.

2.7. Bengal: The Leopard Lookalike

Bengals are a relatively new breed known for their striking spotted coats, which resemble those of a leopard. They are a hybrid breed, resulting from a cross between a domestic cat and an Asian leopard cat.

Temperament: Bengals are intelligent, active, and playful. They require a lot of stimulation and exercise.
Grooming: Their short coat requires minimal grooming.
Health: Bengals are generally healthy, but can be prone to HCM and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).

2.8. American Bobtail: The Short-Tailed Charmer

American Bobtails are known for their distinctive short tails, which are about one-third to one-half the length of a normal cat’s tail. They are a medium-to-large breed with a muscular build.

Temperament: American Bobtails are intelligent, playful, and affectionate. They are known for their gentle and tolerant nature, making them good with children and other pets.
Grooming: Their coat can be short or long, and requires regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles.
Health: American Bobtails are generally healthy, but can be prone to hip dysplasia.

2.9. Ocicat: The Spotted Beauty

Ocicats are a breed that resembles a wild cat, but is entirely domestic. They are known for their spotted coats and athletic builds.

Temperament: Ocicats are intelligent, active, and playful. They require a lot of stimulation and exercise.
Grooming: Their short coat requires minimal grooming.
Health: Ocicats are generally healthy, but can be prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD).

2.10. Selkirk Rex: The Curly Cat

Selkirk Rex cats are known for their distinctive curly fur, which is caused by a dominant gene. They are a medium-to-large breed with a sturdy build.

Temperament: Selkirk Rex cats are affectionate, playful, and gentle. They are known for their laid-back and tolerant nature, making them good with children and other pets.
Grooming: Their curly coat requires regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles.
Health: Selkirk Rex cats are generally healthy, but can be prone to polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and hip dysplasia.

3. Important Considerations Before Getting a Large Cat Breed

Bringing a large cat breed into your home is a big decision. Here are some important factors to consider when asking, “What are the big cats called pets, and are they right for me?”:

3.1. Space Requirements

Large cats need more space than smaller cats. They need room to roam, play, and stretch out. Ensure you have adequate space for a large cat to thrive.

3.2. Food and Nutrition

Large cats require more food than smaller cats. Choose a high-quality cat food that is appropriate for their age, activity level, and breed. Consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations.

3.3. Exercise and Enrichment

Large cats need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Provide them with climbing structures, toys, and opportunities to play.

3.4. Grooming Needs

Many large cat breeds have long fur that requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Be prepared to brush your cat several times a week.

3.5. Potential Health Issues

Some large cat breeds are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and HCM. Research the potential health problems associated with your chosen breed and choose a breeder who screens for these conditions.

3.6. Cost

Large cats can be more expensive to care for than smaller cats. They require more food, larger litter boxes, and may need more frequent veterinary care.

4. Debunking Myths About Large Cat Breeds

There are several common misconceptions about large cat breeds. Let’s debunk some of them:

4.1. Myth: Large Cats Are Aggressive

Reality: Large cat breeds are generally not more aggressive than smaller cats. In fact, many are known for their gentle and affectionate personalities.

4.2. Myth: Large Cats Don’t Like to Cuddle

Reality: Many large cat breeds are incredibly cuddly and love to be around their humans.

4.3. Myth: Large Cats Are High-Maintenance

Reality: While large cats do require more food and space than smaller cats, they are not necessarily high-maintenance in other areas. Grooming needs vary depending on the breed.

4.4. Myth: Large Cats Are Not Good with Children

Reality: Many large cat breeds are excellent with children. They are often tolerant and gentle, making them great family pets.

5. Finding a Reputable Breeder or Rescue Organization

If you’ve decided that a large cat breed is right for you, it’s important to find a reputable breeder or rescue organization.

5.1. What to Look for in a Breeder

Health Testing: The breeder should screen their cats for genetic health problems.
Clean Environment: The cattery should be clean and well-maintained.
Socialization: The kittens should be well-socialized and used to human interaction.
Knowledgeable: The breeder should be knowledgeable about the breed and able to answer your questions.

5.2. Adopting from a Rescue Organization

Adopting a large cat from a rescue organization is a great way to give a deserving animal a loving home. Many rescue organizations specialize in specific breeds.

6. Caring for Your Large Cat: A Comprehensive Guide

Once you’ve brought your large cat home, it’s important to provide them with the best possible care.

6.1. Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment

Provide a comfortable bed or cat tree.
Offer plenty of toys and scratching posts.
Ensure access to fresh water at all times.
Keep the litter box clean and accessible.

6.2. Nutrition and Feeding

Choose a high-quality cat food that is appropriate for your cat’s age, activity level, and breed.
Feed your cat a measured amount of food each day to prevent obesity.
Consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations.

6.3. Grooming Tips

Brush your cat regularly to prevent mats and tangles.
Trim your cat’s nails regularly.
Clean your cat’s ears regularly.
Bathe your cat as needed.

6.4. Exercise and Play

Provide your cat with plenty of toys and opportunities to play.
Encourage your cat to climb and explore.
Consider using a laser pointer or wand toy to engage your cat in interactive play.

6.5. Veterinary Care

Take your cat to the veterinarian for regular checkups and vaccinations.
Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for parasite prevention.
Be aware of the signs of common cat illnesses and seek veterinary care promptly if your cat is sick.

7. Training and Socialization for Large Cat Breeds

Training and socialization are essential for all cats, but especially for large breeds.

7.1. Basic Training

Teach your cat basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.”
Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise.
Be patient and consistent with your training.

7.2. Socialization

Expose your cat to a variety of people, places, and things from a young age.
Supervise interactions with children and other pets.
Make sure your cat has positive experiences during socialization.

8. Common Health Issues in Large Cat Breeds

While large cat breeds are generally healthy, they are prone to certain health issues.

8.1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

HCM is a common heart disease in cats, especially in Maine Coons and Ragdolls. It causes the heart muscle to thicken, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively.

8.2. Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. It can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis.

8.3. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

PKD is a genetic disease that causes cysts to form in the kidneys. It can eventually lead to kidney failure.

8.4. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is a group of genetic diseases that cause the retina to degenerate. It can eventually lead to blindness.

9. The Unique Bond with a Large Cat Breed

Owning a large cat breed can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The bond you share with these magnificent animals is truly unique.

9.1. Unconditional Love and Affection

Large cats are often incredibly affectionate and devoted to their humans. They offer unconditional love and companionship.

9.2. Playful Companions

Despite their size, large cats are often playful and energetic. They can provide hours of entertainment.

9.3. Stress Relief and Emotional Support

Studies have shown that owning a pet can reduce stress and improve mental health. Large cats can provide emotional support and companionship during difficult times.

10. Resources for Large Cat Breed Owners

There are many resources available for large cat breed owners.

10.1. Breed-Specific Websites and Forums

Many websites and online forums are dedicated to specific large cat breeds. These resources can provide valuable information and support.

10.2. Veterinary Specialists

Some veterinarians specialize in certain breeds or health conditions. If your cat has a specific health issue, consider consulting with a specialist.

10.3. Local Cat Clubs and Organizations

Local cat clubs and organizations can provide opportunities to meet other cat owners and learn more about cat care.

FAQ: Delving Deeper into Large Cat Ownership

Exploring the world of larger feline breeds often raises several questions. Here, we address some frequently asked inquiries to provide a clearer understanding:

Are large cat breeds more expensive to own than smaller breeds?

Yes, large cat breeds generally cost more due to higher food consumption, larger litter box requirements, and potentially increased veterinary needs.
Do large cat breeds require more space than smaller cats?

Yes, they require ample space to move around, play, and stretch, making them more suited to larger homes or apartments.
Are large cat breeds good with children?

Many large breeds, such as Maine Coons and Ragdolls, are known for their gentle nature and tolerance, making them excellent family pets.
Do large cat breeds shed more than smaller cats?

Some large breeds have long, thick fur, which can lead to more shedding. Regular grooming helps manage shedding.
Are large cat breeds more prone to health problems?

Certain large breeds are predisposed to specific health issues like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hip dysplasia.
Do large cat breeds need special types of toys or equipment?

They benefit from larger, sturdier toys and climbing structures to accommodate their size and energy levels.
Are large cat breeds more difficult to train?

Large cat breeds are generally intelligent and trainable, responding well to positive reinforcement techniques.
Can large cat breeds live comfortably in apartments?

With sufficient space, exercise, and enrichment, some large breeds can adapt to apartment living.
Do large cat breeds have different dietary requirements?

They require a diet that supports their larger size, often needing more protein and calories than smaller breeds.
How do I choose the right large cat breed for my lifestyle?

Consider your living situation, lifestyle, and preferences to select a breed whose temperament and needs align with yours.

Conclusion: Embracing the Majesty of Large Cat Breeds

Answering the question, “What are the big cats called pets?” leads you to a world of unique and affectionate companions. With their impressive size, captivating personalities, and unwavering loyalty, large cat breeds bring extraordinary joy to any home prepared to meet their specific needs. Whether you admire the regal Maine Coon, the gentle Ragdoll, or the adventurous Norwegian Forest Cat, embracing these magnificent felines means welcoming a lifetime of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

Ready to dive deeper into the world of feline care and find the perfect breed for your lifestyle? Visit PETS.EDU.VN today for expert advice, detailed breed profiles, and a wealth of resources to help you become the best pet parent possible.

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