When you think of life with a domestic cat, you probably picture your feline friend curling up in your lap for cuddles.
But what happens if that furry friend weighs a whopping 9kg?
The magnificent Maine Coon
Maine Coons are known for their impressive size and appearance, measuring up to a metre in length.
With their lynx-like ears and fluffy coats, these cats are a sight to behold. But it's not just their appearance that makes them special, they also have adorable personalities to match.
In fact, Maine Coons are often referred to as gentle giants due to their friendly, affectionate natures. They typically get on well with children and other animals, with many Maine Coons enjoying games like fetch!
Barivel, the largest cat in the world
The largest registered domestic cat in the world today is Barivel, a Maine Coon from Italy.
At a length of an incredible 120 centimetres, Barivel set the record in 2018, taking the title from an English cat called Ludo who was 118 centimetres long.
"When we realised he was growing in a remarkable way, we became curious, so we looked at the Guinness World Records and tried measuring him", explained his owner Cinzia.
Despite his impressive size, Barivel is just as loving and affectionate as any other cat, and he loves nothing more than spending time with his people.
