In a remarkable and somewhat unexpected world record, a domestic cat from Wellington, New Zealand, has claimed the title for the world’s longest tail on a living cat, measuring an extraordinary 45 centimetres from base to tip. The achievement was officially confirmed by adjudicators from the World Record Federation (WRF) earlier this week.
The record-setting feline, a three-year-old Maine Coon named Monty, drew widespread attention after a routine veterinary visit revealed his unusually long tail. His owners, Liam and Sophie Carter, initially thought it was simply a unique trait of the breed. But after multiple vets encouraged them to get it measured professionally, Monty’s tail length was formally evaluated under strict guidelines.
WRF officials conducted the measurement using precision laser tools, ensuring the cat was calm and in a natural standing position. The final reading—45.01 cm—not only surpassed the previous record but set a new global benchmark.
“We knew Monty was special,” said Sophie Carter. “Every time he walks, his tail seems to float behind him like a plume. But we never imagined it would be long enough to break a world record!”
Monty has since become a local celebrity, with social media clips of his graceful movements racking up millions of views. Experts say Maine Coons are known for long, bushy tails designed to help them balance and stay warm in cold climates, but Monty’s measurement is “exceptionally rare.”
Veterinarian Dr. Hannah Llewellyn commented, “This is a fascinating genetic outlier. Monty is perfectly healthy, and his tail length doesn’t cause any mobility issues. It’s simply a standout physical feature.”
With his newfound fame, Monty is set to appear in upcoming animal-feature documentaries and has been chosen as the official mascot for Wellington’s annual Pet Festival. Meanwhile, the Carters insist he remains “the same cuddly, food-loving fluffball” at home—just one with a historic tail.
The record will be published in the upcoming 2026 edition of the WRF Almanac.
