As much as we wish our kittens could stay small forever, they inevitably grow into full-grown cats. So when do cats stop growing? Well, the timeline for a cat to reach full maturity varies depending on the breed. While some breeds mature quickly, others take longer to reach adulthood.
In general, female cats tend to mature a bit earlier than male cats. Additionally, when fully grown, female cats are typically slightly smaller in size compared to their male counterparts.
When do cats stop growing?
While most cats reach their growth peak around one year of age, it’s important to note that some breeds continue to grow for up to five years. Yes, you read that correctly!
While you can’t exactly tell when do cats stop growing? Here is a list of cat breeds and the age at which they typically stop growing. However, please keep in mind that these values are averages, and your own cat may fall slightly above or below these estimates.
Breed | Growth Peak | Average weight when fully grown (lb) | Average size when fully grown (cm) |
Mixed Breed | 1-1.5 years | 8-12 | h: 20-25 | l: 30-38 |
Ragdoll | 3-4 years | 8-20 | h: 23-28 | l: 43-53 |
Maine Coon | 3-5 years | 10-25 | h: 25-40 | l: 48-81 |
Persian | 2 years | 7-12 | h: 20-25 | l: 37-44 |
British Shorthair | 3 years | 7-17 | h: 30-46 | l: 56-64 |
Abyssinian | 1 year | 8-12 | h: 20-25 | l: 30-41 |
American Shorthair | 3-4 years | 10-15 | h: 20-25 | l: 30-38 |
Scottish Fold | 1 year | 9-13 | h: 20-25 | l: 36-41 |
Sphynx | 1 year | 10-12 | h: 20-25 | l: 33-38 |
Siamese | 10-12 months | 8-10 | h: 20-25 | l: 29-36 |
Bengal | 1.5-2 years | 8-15 | h: 20-25 | l: 36-46 |
Birman | 3 years | 10-12 | h: 20-25 | l: 38-46 |
Himalayan | 1-2 years | 7-12 | h: 25-30 | l: 43-48 |
How Big will your cat grow?
Determining the exact size of your cat at the adolescent stage is challenging, but certain factors can provide some insight:
Gender:
Male cats generally tend to be slightly larger than females.
Parents & Genetics:
If you are aware of the size of your kitten’s parents, you can anticipate that your cat will grow to be similar in size if provided with a proper diet.
Litter Mates:
The number of siblings your kitten had can also give you an idea. Large litter may affect the growth of individual kittens, particularly if there is a lack of sufficient milk or if the mother cat is weak. Additionally, birth order within a litter can influence the size of an adult cat. If your kitten was the last-born in a large litter, it is likely to be smaller than its siblings when fully grown.
If you’re curious about how big your cat will ultimately become, it’s best to consult the specific breed standards or consult with your veterinarian for more accurate information. Providing a well-balanced diet and proper care will help ensure healthy growth and development.
How to Make Sure That Your Kitten Reaches Its Full Growth Potential?
To ensure your kitten reaches its full growth potential, there are several steps you can take:
Food:
During the first six months, kittens experience rapid growth. It’s crucial to provide them with proper nutrition to support their physical, mental, and emotional development. Opt for kitten-specific cat food or do thorough research on their nutritional requirements. Transition to adult food after one year to prevent unnecessary weight gain.
Playtime:
Kittens are bursting with energy, so providing them with appropriate outlets for play is essential. Invest in a variety of toys and puzzles to keep them entertained and to help develop strong bones and muscles. Regular playtime routines promote lifelong activity and prevent sedentary behavior as they age.
Proper Healthcare:
Schedule your kitten’s first vet appointment at around 6-8 weeks of age. Vaccination is crucial to protect them from diseases that could hinder growth or endanger their lives. Deworming is also common in kittens to address common parasite issues that may affect growth.
Spaying/Neutering:
Contrary to a common myth, spaying or neutering your kitten does not affect their growth. It helps prevent future health issues and can contribute to weight management. An inactive lifestyle is a more significant risk factor for weight gain.
Flea and Tick Prevention:
Fleas and ticks can negatively impact your kitten’s growth by causing anemia and other health issues. Regularly check for signs of fleas or ticks, such as dirt-like particles near the tail, and use appropriate preventive measures like flea combs or medications.
Lots of Love:
Shower your kitten with affection, hugs, kisses, pets, and occasional treats. Let them feel deeply loved. Happy pets tend to be healthier and more resilient in fighting off diseases compared to stressed or unhappy ones.
I hope you have a better idea about when cats stop growing after reading this blog. By following the above guidelines and providing a nurturing and loving environment, you can help your kitten thrive and reach their full growth potential. Happy Parenting 🙂
Nice article, full of knowledge. There are at least four cats in my home. The fifth one is something that comes home according to its own wish.