Britannica Sources used in this answer

How large are lynx compared with domestic cats?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) — lynx Also known as the Spanish lynx or the Pardel lynx, the species bears a strong resemblance to the Eurasian lynx (*Lynx lynx*), but it may be distinguished by its smaller size; short, dark-tipped tail; and the presence of long, white, beardlike fur under its chin.

Lynx are generally larger and heavier than the average domestic cat. While a healthy domestic cat typically weighs between 6 and 12 pounds (2.7 to 5.44 kg) and reaches an average length of 20 to 28 inches (51 to 71 cm), lynx species are significantly more robust.12

The bobcat, which is the smallest member of the genus Lynx, is roughly the size of a large domestic cat, weighing 9–12 kg (about 20–26 pounds) and standing 45–58 cm (18–23 inches) tall at the shoulder. Other species are even larger:1

Canada lynx: Weighs 8–17.3 kg (18–38 pounds) and stands about 61 cm (24 inches) tall at the shoulder.31
Iberian lynx: Weighs 10–15 kg (22–33 pounds) and stands 45–70 cm (18–28 inches) tall.1
Eurasian lynx: The largest of the genus, weighing 18–36 kg (40–80 pounds) and standing 60–71 cm (24–28 inches) tall at the shoulder.14

In summary, while the smallest lynx may overlap in size with a large domestic cat, most lynx are substantially heavier and taller.1