Fishing cats are significantly larger than domestic house cats in several key measurements. While an average house cat typically weighs between 8-10 pounds and measures about 18 inches in length, fishing cats can reach weights of 25-35 pounds and grow up to 3 feet in length.
The physical differences extend beyond just size. Fishing cats have more muscular builds, particularly in their forelimbs and shoulders, which they use for swimming and catching fish. Their webbed feet are another distinctive feature that house cats lack entirely.
When comparing height, fishing cats stand taller at the shoulder, typically reaching 14-16 inches compared to the 9-10 inches of most domestic cats. This size advantage makes fishing cats more formidable predators in their wetland habitats across India and Southeast Asia. |
