World Records for Longest Domestic Cat

In this article we examine the two World Record holders for Longest Domestic Cat including the current record holder and the longest domestic cat of all time.  Both longest cat record holders happen to be of the Maine Coon cat breed.

The world record holder for the Longest Domestic Cat is currently a Maine Coon named named Barivel who lives with his owners in Vigevano, Pavia (Italy).  Barivel was born in September 2016 and achieved the record at just two years old.  Barivel measured an impressive 120 cm (3 ft 11.2 in) and the record was verified on May 22, 2018.  Maine Coons are slow to mature and often take 3-5 years to reach their full size.

The Longest Living Domestic Cat and Longest Ever World Record Holders

Barivel, the Maine Coon: The Current World Record Holder for Longest Domestic Cat

Barivel has captured the hearts of cat lovers everywhere. In this article, we’ll delve into Barivel’s incredible story, the characteristics of Maine Coons that contribute to their size, and what makes this world record holder so special.  Barivel’s owners, Cinzia Tinnirello and Edgar Scandurra, always knew he was a special cat stating, “”He is a very special cat for us because he is a little shy… when people see him they are very shocked, but for us he is a little gift… a big gift!” said Edgar.

In the local Italian dialect, Barivel means clown or joker. But despite his name and being one of the largest domestic cats you’ll ever see, Edgar says Barivel doesn’t have a larger than life personality.  Barivel reportedly leads a pampered life, eating plenty of biscuits, chicken and fish –  and even gets taken for walks in a buggy!  Here is Barivel next to his housemates.  Despite his massive size, Barivel is a gentle giant who loves to cuddle and play. He enjoys spending time with his human family and is known for his playful and curious nature. Barivel is like a dog in many ways, following people around the house and even playing fetch with his toys.

Barivel with his house mate companions

Barivel is a truly remarkable cat who has captured the hearts of people all over the world. His size and gentle nature make him a unique and special pet, and his story is a testament to the joys and rewards of pet ownership. We can only hope that Barivel will continue to live a long and healthy life, inspiring cat lovers everywhere to appreciate the beauty and wonder of these amazing animals.

Meet Stewie as the World Record for Longest Domestic Cat of all time

The “Longest Domestic Cat Ever” record is also held by a Maine Coon.  Mymains Stewart Gilligan (aka Stewie) measured 123 cm (48.5 in) long on 28 August 2010 to make him one of the largest domestic cats ever. Sadly, Stewie passed away in February of 2013.   Stewie was a stunning gray tabby Maine Coon that was known for his gentle demeanor and captivating personality, Stewie lived with his loving owner, Robin Hendrickson, in Reno, Nevada, USA. Beyond his size, Stewie’s calm and friendly nature made him a beloved pet and an internet sensation.

Stewie measured 3 cm longer than the current record holder Barivel.  Here is Stewie as a kitten and then full grown as a whopper cat.

Stewie’s record-breaking length brought him widespread fame. News outlets, pet lovers, and social media users alike were fascinated by the gentle giant. His story was shared worldwide, making him a household name among cat aficionados. Besides holding the record for being the longest cat, Stewie used his fame for good by becoming a certified therapy animal. He often visited senior centers and hospitals, spreading joy and comfort to countless individuals.

What Makes Maine Coons So Large?

Maine Coons are famous for being the largest domestic cat breed. Known for their friendly nature and dog-like behavior, these cats can weigh anywhere between 10 to 30 pounds or more, with males typically being larger than females.  One reason Maine Coons like Stewie and Barivel grew to be so large lies in their genetic makeup. Thought to have been bred from long-haired cats brought to the United States by early seafarers, they developed their impressive size and thick, water-repellent fur to withstand the harsh New England winters. This adaptive quality, coupled with responsible breeding practices, has led to the emergence of some truly extraordinary cats, with Stewie and Barivel being prime examples.

Here are some traits that contribute to their impressive size:

1. Genetics: The Maine Coon’s natural evolution in the cold climate of Maine, USA, has played a role in their development as large and hardy cats.
2. Diet and Care: Proper nutrition and health care can maximize a Maine Coon’s growth potential.
3. Bone Structure: Maine Coons have a strong, muscular build, with large bones that add to their significant size.

Both Barivel and Stewie stand out even among their large-breed peers, as their record-breaking length far exceeds the typical Maine Coon size.  It is not surprising that Maine Coons hold the Longest Domestic Cat record.

The Growing Popularity of Maine Coons

As the holder of the record for the longest cat, Barivel and Stewie contributed to a surge in interest in the Maine Coon breed. People worldwide have become fascinated with these gentle giants due to their:

• Friendly and Sociable Nature: Maine Coons are known for their affectionate and playful demeanor.
• Adaptability: These cats get along well with families, children, and even other pets.
• Intelligence: They are quick learners and can be trained to follow simple commands, making them an engaging addition to any household.

Watch the video below to discover more about the Maine Coon cat breed.

Maine Coon 101:  Interesting Facts about Maine Coons Video

Enjoy watching this video of facinating facts about the Maine Coon cat breed.

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