Meet Barivel – Italy’s Guinness World Record Maine Coon
In May 2018, Barivel, born in September 2016, earned his place in the Guinness World Records as the longest living domestic cat, measuring a staggering 120 cm (47.2 in) from his nose to tail tip.
Though Stewie (123 cm) still holds the record, Barivel claimed the ‘living title‘ and did so at only two years old, while many Maine Coons continue growing until age three to five.
Barivel’s landmark measurement surpassed Ludo by just 0.6 inches, placing Barivel at the pinnacle of life-recorded length at that time.
Barivel Summary
- Born: September 2016 in Vigevano, Pavia, Italy
- World Record: Verified by Guinness on 22 May 2018 as the longest living domestic cat, measuring 120 cm (47.2 in) – about 3 feet 11.2 inches
- Preceded by: Ludo (118.3 cm), just 0.6 inches shorter; the record held by Stewie (123 cm, deceased).
Personality: The Gentle Giant
Despite his extraordinary size, Barivel is known by his owners, Cinzia Tinnirello and Edgar Scandurra, as:
- Deeply shy
- Serene
- Affectionate
His name, which in regional dialect means “clown or joker,” is lovingly ironic, as Edgar describes him more as a “Buddhist cat”:
- Peaceful
- Soft-spoken
- Aware
Rather than seek attention, Barivel prefers family time.
The household occasionally wheels him out in a pet stroller, where stunned passersby marvel at his size, but always only when he seems comfortable with it.
Physical Traits And Lifestyle Highlights
While Barivel’s exact weight is unpublished since the Guinness World Records ceased measuring to discourage overfeeding, local media estimated him at 9 kg (around 20 lb) at age two.
He eats meals rich in protein, including tuna, chicken, and premium kibble, which help maintain his muscular build and glossy coat.
A few visual details charm fans instantly:
- Black classic tabby markings swirl in bull’s-eye patterns
- Tufted ears, long ruff, bushy tail – typical Maine Coon hallmarks
- His elongated form gives him both majesty and a cuddly presence
Social Attention And Digital Fame
Barivel’s Instagram profile, @barivel_maine_coon, had achieved over 7,100 followers by early 2025.
His calm demeanor and home life stream in quiet, thoughtful photos and videos, not flashy tricks, but real-life moments of peaceful coexistence.
International media, like The Sun, picked up his story, prompting online disbelief. Skeptics questioned the reality of his stature, but live video evidence and third-party documentation confirmed his legitimacy!
Below is a short video of Barivel, the Maine Coon cat, from the Guinness World Records YouTube channel:
Why Barivel’s Story Matters
- Maine Coons grow slowly: Often until age 3-5, making Barivel’s extraordinary growth at just two years all the more notable.
- Temperament over size: At nearly four feet long, he remains unusually mellow, challenging stereotypes about big cats needing to be energetic or unruly.
- A responsible record: His owners documented the process, allowed measurement by authorized officials, and shared regular updates with followers, establishing trust and credibility.
Age
As of July 19, 2025, Barivel is 8 years, 9 months, and 21 days old
He’s approaching his 9th birthday and is now considered a senior cat, though Maine Coons often age gracefully and remain active and affectionate well into their teens.
