Last Updated: 4 months ago
If you’re on the hunt for some of the most glorious long-tail cat breeds, stick around!
Below, we’re taking a deep dive into all things cauda-related (that’s the fancy word for tail, by the way).
From lush and fluffy to sleek and sinewy, we’ve got it all!
So, let’s dive right in, shall we?
List Of Long Tail Cat Breeds
Domestic cats have a number of interesting features that make them striking, but none are quite as exquisite as the tail.
A cat’s tail helps them balance on tricky surfaces and when they’re hunting prey.
Have you ever noticed your feline friend swish their tail when annoyed or put it straight up in the air to greet you?
This is one way cats communicate with each other (and us) without using words.
The tail accounts for a massive 10 percent of a cat’s total bone count and generally measures around 11 inches for males and 9.5 inches for females.
Some cats have, however, been specifically bred to have longer tails. Join us as we take a look at some of these long tail cat breeds below.
Let’s start with breeds of cats that have both long and fluffy tails!
#1 Himalayans
These cats are a cross between a Persian and a Siamese.
As a result, the Himalayans have the fluffiness of a Persian and the coloring of a Siamese.
The thickness of their fluff adds to the illusion of the size of their tail, making them a wonderful sight to behold.
Himalayans are also very good-natured cats and make excellent apartment companions.
#2 Birmans
Also known as “the Sacred Cat of Burma,” this domestic cat breed has a silky-textured tail that is a darker or different shade from their bodies.
They also boast beautiful blue eyes and striking personalities. They’re incredibly affectionate with their families and get along great with other pets.
However, if you’re looking for the least talkative cat breed, Birman may not be right for you. They’re fairly vocal kitties.
#3 Maine Coons
One of my all-time favorite breeds also happens to be the answer to “What cat has the longest tail ever?”
A Maine Coon named Cygnus Regulus Powers earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for his massive 17.58″ tail!
The Maine Coon is also among the largest domestic cat breeds and can weigh as much as 35 pounds!
As for that lush tail, they’re typically larger at the base, then fan out into beautiful bushy layers towards the tip.
Maine Coons get along well with other pets, including dogs. They’re also fantastic for families with kids.
#4 Ragdoll
Ragdolls, a favorite breed for many, Ragdolls are known for being excellent apartment cats and good-natured.
Their tails are long and fluffy, requiring regular grooming to avoid matting.
Ragdolls are typically very affectionate towards their families and do fairly well with other pets.
Like the Maine Coon, they score top marks in the “kid-friendly” department, too.
#5 Somalis
These active cats have the fluffiest tails that are soft in texture and bushy like a fox’s.
Known for their affectionate demeanors and high level of intelligence, this kitty will keep you on your toes!
Somalis also enjoy being groomed on a daily basis, which makes it a lot easier to care for that amazing tail!
#6 LaPerm
One look at that curly coat, and it’s easy to see how this breed got the name LaPerm!
These long-haired cats have beautiful, plumed tails with wavy fur.
They aren’t heavy shedders, and keeping those gorgeous curls in great shape doesn’t require much work compared to other fluffy-tailed breeds.
They are playful and easygoing, making them fantastic family pets.
#7 Persian
When I think “luxurious tail,” the Persian is always the first breed that pops into mind.
This popular breed is known for their extremely fluffy coats and equally long tails.
They are relaxed cats and are suitable for apartment living.
However, as far as the healthiest cat breeds go, they’re pretty far down the list.
That sweet, smushed face that makes them so popular also presents a fair amount of challenges, ranging from breathing issues to dental problems.
#8 Norwegian Forest Cats
After the Maine Coon, the Norwegian Forest Cat is my absolute favorite domestic breed.
These cats are equipped for very cold weather and, as a result, have beautiful long coats.
They are large in size (although not quite MC sized) and big-boned, but these cats are also extremely gentle and loving.
While they love their families, they’re not overly demanding.
In other words, they enjoy a good cuddle but won’t stalk you around the house, meowing for attention.
#9 Selkirk Rexes
Featuring unforgettable curly locks, these cats have a very unique look and come in a number of different colors.
They don’t require much grooming and are full of personality, making them a very enjoyable cat to own.
While affectionate with family, including kids and other pets, Selkirks do require a good deal of grooming to keep their locks from getting matted.
#10 Siberian
Another favorite, this breed is known for their larger than life size and personalities.
Siberians are affectionate and playful and enjoy being included in everything their owners do.
They love kids and get along well with other cats, making them an all-around terrific family pet.
#11 Turkish Angora
This medium-sized breed tends to be rather slender in stature. Turkish Angora comes in many different colors and is quiet and sensitive.
They’re an incredibly affectionate breed, but they have a stubborn streak that’s even longer than their tail!
They’re super friendly all-around with family, but only do moderately well with other pets.
Now, let’s check out some long-tailed and long-legged kitties!
Cats With Long Legs And Long Tail
Not all cats with long tails have “legs for miles” to match. So, if you’re looking for a perfectly proportioned kitty, these next few might do the trick!
#1 American Curls
The American Curl gets her name from her beautiful “flipped-back” ears. They kind of look like someone tried to turn them inside out.
According to breeding standards, these cats must have tails that are equal in length to their bodies.
As a result, they have very long tails that complement their bodies.
These are the ultimate family cats. They’re affectionate, love kids, get along with other pets, and even like strangers.
#2 Bengals
If you’ve ever wanted to own a cat breed that looks like a tiger, you’ll love the Bengal.
This breed actually derives from wild cats that have been bred with domestic cats.
They are extremely energetic, and their bodies are built for high activity levels, so make sure you provide them with plenty of exercise opportunities.
Despite their wild appearance, Bengals are pretty easy-going and affectionate.
#3 Bombays
These house panthers have striking black coats and a muscular build.
Bombays are curious by nature and enjoy spending time with their humans.
Their intelligence makes them easy to train, and you can even teach them some neat cat tricks!
#4 Savannahs
These large cats are hybrids between domestic cats and African Servals.
Their popularity is rising, particularly among celebrities, but they are one of the most expensive cats breeds to purchase and require very specific care.
Worse, Savannahs growing popularity with the “rich and fabulous” means a rise in unethical breeders.
It’s so bad that an entire site, Savannah Cat Scams, exists to maintain a list of bad breeders, including those who keep wild servals locked up in tiny cages.
So, if you decide this is the breed for you, please adopt ethically.
#5 Egyptian Maus
Egyptian Mau are small to medium-sized cats, fairly proportionate in size, and can weigh up to 5 kg.
They are an athletic breed and need lots of exercise and a healthy diet in order to thrive.
While affectionate towards family, they’re very reserved around strangers. So, if you’re big on entertaining at home, don’t expect your Mau to chill with the crowd.
#6 American Shorthairs
When you hear someone refer to their cat as “a regular domestic house breed,” chances are they’re talking about the American Shorthair.
These popular cats are powerful and full of muscle. They are quite robust and heavy-set, but they make wonderful companions as they are very easy-going.
#7 Asheras
This laboratory-developed breed is known for being the most expensive cat in the world.
Asheras are large cats that are direct descendants of Asian Leopards.
As a relatively new breed (they’re less than 20 years old), not much is known about their long-term health yet.
In fact, not much is known about them at all, as very few people can afford their $14,000 price tag (and that’s on the cheap end; they can cost over $100K from some breeders).
Cats With Long Tails And Big Ears
If you’re looking for big ears to match a long tail, keep reading!
#1 Oriental shorthairs
These relatively small cats are absolutely bursting with personality.
They are closely linked to Siamese cats in terms of genetics but come in a variety of colors.
They are energetic, playful, and very affectionate. Orientals are also among the most vocal breeds, so expect to spend a lot of time chatting with your kitty!
#2 Siamese
These family favorites are known for their beautiful blue eyes and pointed colors.
While they look super sophisticated, they’re actually quite playful!
In fact, you can even teach them to play fetch. Siamese cats also get along well with everyone, including other kitties.
However, they’re prone to congenital heart problems as well as amyloidosis, a type of kidney disease.
#3 Absynnians
This highly active breed is fairly proportionate in size and weighs between 6 and 11 lbs.
They have short coats and darling tufts on their ears, and they look a bit like a miniature wild cat.
They also get along well with people and other animals.
#4 Burmese
These loving and affectionate cats are well known for their big personalities and curious natures.
Burmese are active cats who enjoy climbing trees and exploring new surroundings.
They’re also among the best mouser cat breeds around, so expect frequent gifts!
#5 Cornish Rexes
The Cornish Rex cat breed has a small, narrow head, a long tail and long legs.
They are among the tiniest domestic breeds and come in a variety of colors. They can also have a number of different eye colors.
As you can see by their super-short peach-fuzz fur, they don’t shed much at all.
Sadly, they’re among the least healthy breeds, as they’re prone to several congenital conditions.
#6 Javanese
The Javanese is essentially a long-haired version of the popular Siamese.
They are intelligent cats with lots of energy and affectionate personalities.
If you’re looking for a fairly quiet kitty, the Javanese is your gal!
Sadly, they don’t just look like the Siamese, they also share the same health problems.
Cats With Thick Tails
Okay, so we’ve talked about long tails, fluffy fluffsters, and perfectly proportioned kitties.
What if you’re looking for cats with thick tails, though? These next kitties should be on your adoption wish list!
#1 Scottish Folds
These cats are famous for their dropped-down ears and soft eyes.
They’re gentle and quiet, making them excellent apartment or family cats.
#2 Turkish Vans
This popular breed is loved by many cat-owners around the world, as these cats are social and full of personality.
They have a cotton-like coat and thick-set tails.
#3 Exotic shorthairs
Boasting large, round eyes, these cats with big eyes are genetically linked to the ever-popular Persian cats.
They are a relatively new exotic breed but are becoming more common in pet-loving households.
FAQs
WHAT WILD CAT HAS THE LONGEST TAIL?
Just like domestic cats, wild cats rely on their tails for balance and communication. Their tails form a crucial role in helping them to be able to hunt effectively to feed themselves in the wild.
Some wild cats have long tails and some have no tails at all. Each feature is unique in how that particular cat functions and thrives in the wild. When it comes to which wild cats have the longest tails of all, Snow Leopards come out on top.
Their tails are used to help them balance while on a hunt, but are also used as extra protection from the cold by wrapping them around their bodies. Their massive tails can reach up to one meter in length.
DOES A LONG TAIL MEAN A BIG CAT?
The length of a cat’s tail has no bearing on the size of the cat. Often, cats with long tails are bred to be larger overall, but this isn’t always the case. In fact, there are cats that have no tails at all.
This is a specific decision that has been made by a breeder who undertook to introduce tailless cats. A cat’s body size and tail size are completely determined by genetics.
A larger cat may very well have a shorter tail; while a smaller cat may have a longer tail. Breeders aim to make cat breeds as aesthetically pleasing as possible and, as a result, will usually choose to make bodies and tails proportionate in size.
WHY DOES MY CAT HAVE A VERY LONG TAIL?
As mentioned above, a cat’s tail is very important to how they execute their daily actions and functions. They use them to balance, which is how they’re able to walk high up on narrow fences.
They also use their tails to hunt effectively and communicate. If your cat has a particularly long tail, they will have been born with some kind of genetic factor to makes this so.
This could be from a specific breed, an ancestor of theirs, or even a genetic anomaly that has been passed down. If your cat has a long tail, there is no need to be concerned.
All of our feline friends are wonderfully unique in their own ways, and having a long tail is a great way to stand out.
Conclusion
When it comes to our kitties, there is so much to learn and explore.
Every part that makes them unique, from their colors to their tails, is genetically determined and can be explained by science.
A cat’s tail completes them by contributing to their balance and methods of communication.
Whether they’re long or short, fluffy or even nonexistent, our cat’s tails are a feature to be celebrated.
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Olfa knows how to get things done and has a keen business sense that others admire. She’s always on the go, coming up with new ideas! Her ability to anticipate the needs of her readers and deliver information that they want is what makes CatVills such a success. She loves cuddling her cat Picaciu. He is her inspiration.
