How Big Do Persian Cats Get? Average Size and Growth Milestones

Their eyes are big, round, and expressive. Their heads are round and their little scrunchy faces win you over within seconds. These sweet, fluffy kitties make excellent companions. But how big do Persian cats get? Find out their average size and what you can expect during their first year of development!

What Is a Persian Cat?

A Persian cat is a type of domestic cat that has a distinctive round head and a rather flat face. These cats have long, lustrous coats and aside from their easily distinguishable features, are also known for their gentle nature. Their fur ranges in color but some of the more common coat colors include blue, black, white, brown, cream, silver, and lilac.

Persian cats’ bodies are medium to large and because they have such short muzzles, they sometimes develop dental issues and breathing problems. Their build is sturdy, and their tails are shaggy. Their eyes are quite expressive and may be different colors, including copper, blue, and green. They make the perfect indoor companion because they are calm and content within a tranquil environment.

Not only do they display a calm nature, but they are also affectionate, which only makes them sweeter as housemates. Their regal appearance was appealing to European royalty in the 1600s. Though generally easy-going, Persian cats do require regular brushing and grooming to ensure that their long coats don’t get tangled or develop mats. Because of their susceptibility to both dental and breathing issues, they also require regular veterinary checkups to ensure they receive the right care.

How Big Do Persian Cats Get?

Since Persian cats have long, thick coats, they appear a bit larger than they actually are. On average, these cats weigh between seven and 12 pounds. They can be anywhere from 20 to 28 inches long and 10 to 15 inches tall.

Persian Cat Growth Milestones

A Persian cat’s growth milestones are much like other types of domestic cats though each individual cat’s growth milestones depend on its genetics. Below is a general timeline for a Persian cat’s growth milestones:

• Birth to two weeks: When a Persian cat is born, its life is entirely dependent on its mother. As kittens, they can neither hear nor see. They suckle as they nurse and when they’re not eating, they’re resting.
• Two to four weeks: Around 10 or 14 days, Persian kittens begin to take in the world through their sense of sight. Their eyes start to open during this period, which allows them to examine their environment. They may start to teeter around and explore a bit at this stage.
• Four to eight weeks: Persian kittens are significantly more active at this stage. They’re practicing their walk and enjoying playtime with their littermates. Around four weeks, they also start weening, moving onto soft foods. This second month of life is vital as they learn to socialize. This is when their personality develops as they learn to interact with others. Their wobbly walks get steadier.

• Six to 12 weeks: By this stage, Persian kittens are no longer reliant on their mother for sustenance. They are eating kitten food and continuing to grow, ever-so-playfully interacting with their littermates and humans. They’re braver as they explore their environment, and they take in all the new information as they learn how to navigate.
• Three to six months: Around this time in their development, the growth spurt slows. However, Persian kittens are continuing their cognitive development. Their adult fur starts growing at this point, which makes them look more grown than ever.
• Six months to one year: Starting at six months, Persian cats are in their adolescent stage. They’re almost completely full grown but it takes a couple more months for them to finish maturing. During this stage, their personalities have solidified.

Persian Cat: Adult Life Stage

By the time your Persian cat reaches a year old, it has matured into adulthood. They have their full adult coats, giving them that distinctive regal appearance. Their personalities are well-developed at this stage, and you can tell siblings apart not only by their coat and eye colors but also by their dispositions. While most Persian cats take a full year to become adults, others may take a little longer, continuing their development for another six months after their first year of life.