Understanding Cat Growth: When Do Cats Stop Growing?
If you’ve recently adopted a kitten, you’ve likely noticed how quickly they grow! This rapid development may leave you wondering, “When do cats stop growing?”
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about your kitten’s growth journey!
When Do Cats Stop Growing?
While several factors can influence when a cat stops growing, most felines reach their full size between 6 and 12 months old. After this stage, their size may increase slightly, but this is often due to fat gain rather than growth in height or length.
A cat’s lifestyle plays a significant role in how much fat they accumulate after reaching full size.
Also Related: 6 Reasons Why Cats Spend So Much Time Sleeping
How Can You Tell How Big a Cat Will Get?
The size a cat will reach can depend on factors such as breed, gender, diet, and even the number of siblings in the litter. Here are the main considerations:
Gender:
Male cats tend to grow larger than females. On average, both male and female cats weigh between 8 to 12 pounds and stand about 8 to 10 inches tall (measured from paw to shoulder).
Fun fact: Unneutered male cats often develop larger cheeks due to testosterone, giving them a rounder face. This physical trait signals health and fitness to other cats. If your male cat’s face looks fuller, this may be the reason. Consider speaking to your vet about neutering options.
Spaying and Neutering:
Spaying or neutering your cat can affect its growth and body shape. Cats neutered after reaching sexual maturity are generally larger than those neutered earlier. The timing of this procedure can have a noticeable impact on your cat’s final size.
Diet and Lifestyle:
Once a cat reaches its full size, any additional weight is likely due to fat accumulation. Cats that consume too many treats or eat more than necessary can gain weight, especially if they aren’t getting enough exercise. Although a chubby cat can be adorable, obesity can lead to serious health issues. Keeping your cat active and maintaining a balanced diet is essential for their long-term well-being. If you’re concerned about your cat’s weight, consult your vet for advice.
Cat Breed Size:
A cat’s breed significantly influences how large they will grow. Some breeds remain small throughout their lives, while others can grow quite large. Here’s a look at small and large breeds:
Smaller Breeds:
Some cat breeds stay petite, resembling their kitten-like appearance even as adults. Examples include:
- Singapura: Adult females can weigh as little as 4 pounds, while males typically weigh up to 8 pounds. They grow to around 6-8 inches tall.
- Munchkin
- Devon Rex
- American Curl
- Cornish Rex
Also see: Cat Bathing Made Easy: A Step-by-Step Guide
Larger Breeds:
Big cat breeds may take longer to reach their full size, but they still generally stop growing between 6-12 months. The exception is the Maine Coon, which can continue growing for up to 4 years! Some other large breeds include:
- Siberian Forest: Females weigh between 11-15 pounds, and males range from 15-19 pounds, reaching a height of around 12 inches.
- Bengal
- Ragamuffin
- Turkish Van
- Ragdoll
- British Shorthair
- Pixiebob
How to Know if Your Cat Has Stopped Growing
The best way to track your cat’s growth is to measure their weight, height, and width (particularly around the shoulders and hips) monthly. By recording these measurements regularly, you’ll be able to see when their growth plateaus. Without tracking, you might not realize just how much your cat is still growing!
Keeping an eye on your cat’s growth ensures they remain healthy and helps you manage their diet and lifestyle effectively.
By understanding these key factors, you can better anticipate your cat’s growth and provide them with the care they need to stay fit and healthy.
