The global median age is 31, which might seem unremarkable when compared to the world’s oldest cat, who lived to be 38. Cats continue to amaze us with their remarkable feats, and one such feline making waves is Kefir, a Maine Coon recently crowned the world’s largest cat. Bright Side interviewed Kefir’s owner, Yuliya, to learn more about this magnificent, white-haired kitty, and we’re here to share the purr-fect details.

Kefir, a 27-pound (12.2 kg) Maine Coon, has captured the internet’s heart with his impressive size and irresistible charm. Named after the fermented milk drink by Yuliya’s daughters, this giant kitty is still growing—Maine Coons typically grow until they’re 3 or 4 years old. Despite his size, Kefir is still technically a kitten, and his appearance often leads people to mistake him for a dog.

When Yuliya first brought Kefir into her home, she never imagined he would grow so large. Besides his size, Kefir’s intelligence and human-like behavior make him stand out. He often joins the family at the dinner table, sitting in his own chair and behaving like a well-mannered companion. Yuliya describes him as another family member, not just a pet.

Kefir’s size isn’t his only remarkable trait. His strong paws allow him to open doors around the house, and he has a surprising love for water, even enjoying swimming. However, drying his thick, luxurious fur after a swim is no small feat. Visitors to Yuliya’s home are often taken aback by Kefir’s affection for attention and cuddles. Despite his size, he’s incredibly loving and enjoys lounging on the kitchen table. Yuliya shared that his favorite pastime is sleeping on her at night, though his weight makes it a bit of a challenge.

Kefir’s personality, intelligence, and quirky habits have made him a beloved member of Yuliya’s family and an online sensation. Whether he’s swimming, cuddling, or dining at the table, this Maine Coon shows that cats are just as full of surprises as they are of character.