If you’re dreaming of a playful cat that carries itself like royalty, think about choosing a cat breeds with long legs. Most adult cats stand about as tall as a ruler, with legs that match in height, and while they’re fully grown by one year, they often keep filling out and gaining strength for another year. Cats with long legs aren’t just elegant —they’re speedy too, often running up to 20% faster than their shorter-legged companions.
Abyssinian
The Abyssinian (or Aby) is a medium-sized cat with long, slender legs and a muscular body. Its short, reddish coat sheds less than many other breeds. Abyssinians are playful, energetic, and social—they enjoy the company of both people and other pets. They’re low-maintenance but need plenty of vertical spaces to climb and daily playtime. Having another cat can also help keep them entertained.
- Height: 8–10 inches
- Weight: 8–12 lbs
- Max age: 13 years
Arabian Mau
The Arabian Mau is a naturally occurring breed with long legs, large ears, and a lean body. Its coat comes in red-orange, white, black, or striped patterns. These active cats enjoy both indoor and outdoor life, are independent yet friendly with children and pets, and are known for their loud meows.
- Height: 8–10 inches
- Weight: 9–16 lbs
- Max age: 14 years
Bengal
The Bengal is a striking, muscular cat with long legs and a wild appearance, bred from Egyptian Mau and Asian Leopard Cat crosses. Their red-brown coat has leopard-like spots and stripes. Bengals are loving, highly active, and need lots of play and stimulation. They’re not cheap—sometimes costing as much as a used car!
- Height: 8–10 inches
- Weight: 15 lbs
- Max age: 15 years
Chausie
The Chausie, a rare breed, comes from crossing Abyssinians with Jungle Cats. Medium to large with a long body and legs, they love to climb and play. Their coats vary in striped, black, or reddish tones. Chausies are social and friendly but need lots of space to run and jump.
- Height: 14–18 inches
- Weight: 15–30 lbs
- Max age: 14 years
Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau has longer back legs, making it the fastest domestic cat, reaching up to 30 mph! Originally used in Egypt for duck hunting, Maus have spotted coats with striped faces in grey or brown tones. They’re playful, loving, and energetic and need plenty of room to stay active.
- Height: 8–10 inches
- Weight: 7–9 lbs
- Max age: 20 years
Oriental Shorthair
The Oriental Shorthair, developed from Siamese cats, has an elegant long body, neck, face, and tail—and very long legs. With a shiny, short coat in up to 600 colors and patterns, they have a wedge-shaped head and are known for their affectionate, talkative nature. Cat trees and perches make them happy.
- Height: 8–10 inches
- Weight: 6–12 lbs
- Max age: 15 years
Savannah
The Savannah is a slender, long-legged breed famous for being tall—the world’s tallest cat, at 19 inches, is a Savannah! They have dark spots and love to run and play. While they’re good with kids and pets, caution is needed around small animals like birds or hamsters. Savannahs are among the priciest breeds, costing $10,000–$25,000.
- Height: 12–14 inches
- Weight: 20–30 lbs
- Max age: 20 years
Serengeti
The Serengeti is a newer breed, developed by crossing Oriental Shorthairs with Bengals to mimic the wild Serval’s look without wildcat genes. Medium-sized with long legs, they are playful, fast, loving, and quite vocal.
- Height: 8–10 inches
- Weight: 8–15 lbs
- Max age: 10 years
Turkish Angora
The Turkish Angora has a slim, long-legged body, with back legs taller than the front. Best known in white, they come in many colors. Angoras are affectionate and often bond closely with one person. They love to run and need daily brushing and places to climb.
- Height: 8–10 inches
- Weight: 7–14 lbs
- Max age: 14 years
Turkish Van
The Turkish Van, originally from Turkey, is white with colored markings on the head and tail. Its strong, long legs (with slightly taller back legs) make it a swift runner. They have long hair in winter and short in summer and are known for being smart, playful, and unusually fond of water—even joining their owners in the shower!
- Height: 9–11 inches
- Weight: 7–20 lbs
- Max age: 17 years
Final Thoughts
Cat breeds with long legs are undeniably elegant, making them popular choices as pets. But beyond appearance, it’s essential to choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and personality. All cats, no matter their breed or size, are beautiful—so pick the one that best suits your heart and home.
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