Cats
Couple adopts tiny kitten not knowing he’d grow up to be the world’s longest cat
Omar is more like a lion than a cat.
Harper Gillis
09.25.23

If you’re someone who loves the idea of a low-maintenance pet, cats usually top the list.

They’re generally easy to care for, self-sufficient, and on the smaller side.

That’s probably what Stephy Hirst from Australia had in mind when she adopted her kitten, Omar.

But Omar had other plans.

He wasn’t just going to be any ordinary cat; he was destined for greatness—enormous greatness, to be precise.

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Maine Coon cats, the breed to which Omar belongs, are already known for their larger-than-average size.

But Omar takes it to a whole new level.

As a kitten, he was just like any other—tiny and adorable.

But as he grew, so did the numbers on the scale. Before long, he tipped the scales at over 30 pounds.

And that’s not all; Omar stretches out to an astonishing 3.93 feet, earning him the title of the world’s longest living cat, as verified by none other than the Guinness Book of World Records.

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Omar didn’t just grow in size; he also grew in fame.

He first caught the public’s eye through the popular social media page Cats of Instagram.

Once he was spotted, the Guinness team couldn’t resist; they contacted Hirst to arrange a meeting with this feline phenomenon.

And it turns out Omar was even longer than a UK-based Maine Coon named Ludo, who was already impressively large at 3.88 feet.

Omar, however, clinched the title.

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You might think that having a cat the size of a small lion would come with its challenges, but Hirst couldn’t be happier.

Despite being only a year old, Omar has the demeanor of a gentle giant who loves to snuggle.

He’s essentially a pint-sized lion with a heart full of love.

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Fame hasn’t gone to Omar’s head, though.

Even with all the attention and accolades, he prefers a low-key lifestyle.

He’s not one for the limelight, choosing instead to live a peaceful, quiet life.

And according to Hirst, Omar is still growing, so who knows what records he might break next!

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Omar’s story isn’t just a tale of unexpected growth and fame; it’s also a cautionary tale for potential pet owners.

If you’re considering adopting a Maine Coon, be prepared for the possibility of a lot of cat to love.

These cats can grow to sizes you might not expect.

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But if the idea of a gigantic, cuddly feline friend sounds like a dream come true, then a Maine Coon may be the pet for you!

Omar, with his gentle nature and adorable looks, certainly makes a compelling case for it.

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So, whether you’re a cat lover, a record enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a good, heartwarming story, Omar’s tale has something for everyone.

It’s a story of surprises, love, and the joy that pets bring into our lives, no matter their size.

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In the end, Omar teaches us that sometimes the most extraordinary things come in unexpected packages.

He may have started as just another kitten in a shelter, but he’s grown—quite literally—into a world record holder and an internet sensation.

And he’s done it all while remaining the sweet, lovable cat that won Hirst’s heart in the first place.

See the world’s biggest Maine Coon in the video below!

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