Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest cat look like they were related, and some experts even claim that there is some mixing in their ancestry, i.e. that the Maine Coon cat breed is a descendant of the Norwegian cat breed.
Both these breeds are fluffy, long-haired, big cats. Whether you just want to expand your knowledge, or perhaps you’re looking to buy one of these two breeds, I hope that this article provides you with all the information you need about the Norwegian Forest cat vs Maine Coon cat breeds.
At a first glance, their physical appearance can look the same, especially if they appear in similar colors. However there are some physical traits that make them different, which are easily noticed once you learn about them.
1. The Size Of Their Legs
According to breeders, the most noticeable difference between Norwegian Forest cat vs Maine Coon is their legs, specifically the length of their legs. The Norwegian Forest cat’s hind legs are longer than the front, while the Maine Coon’s legs are all the same length.
However, this is not something that is visible right away, and not all cats will let you touch their legs, let alone measure them!
2. Eye Shape And Size
The main difference between Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats is their eye shape and size.
Norwegian Forest cats have almond-shaped eyes, while Maine Coons have oval-shaped eyes that are quite large compared to other domestic cat breeds.
Norwegian Forest cats are also more active, whereas Maine Coons are more affectionate which is why they’re called gentle giants.
Norwegian Forest cats may be slightly less affectionate, but they are both great for families and are good with other pets.
The Norwegian Forest Cat is similar to the Maine Coon in color, but they tend to have more possible varieties. These two breeds are both beautiful long-haired cats, now let’s see what other similarities and differences they share.
3. Heads And Tails
The Norwegian Forest cat has a somewhat triangular head shape whereas the Maine Coon’s head is square-shaped. The profile of the Norwegian Forest cat is longer and it looks straight from its straight nose to its big, flat forehead. They have a triangular face, whereas a Maine Coon has more pronounced, high cheekbones.
The tail of a Norwegian Forest cat is neat and looks groomed, while the bushy tail of a Maine Coon looks a bit messy and furry, with a fluffy tip. Both of them have long tails, usually as long as the distance from their shoulders to their tails.
4. Ears
One of Maine Coon’s most distinctive features is its large, pointy ears with hairs on the tips which resemble the lynx cats. Their ears are set widely apart standing high on their heads, whereas Norwegian Forest cats have smaller ears that are rounded on top, and they are set more toward the sides of their heads.
Both of these large breeds have ear tufts as well, which is quite cute and welcome in a cat’s world, whereas in humans it is fairly unattractive… lol
5. Body Shape & Size
Both of these cat breeds are large in size, but the Maine Coon is bigger. Male Maine Coons’ weight can go up to 25lbs, whereas male Norwegian Forest cats can weigh up to 20 lbs. Females are smaller; Norwegian Forest female cats can weigh a maximum of 15 lbs, and female Maine Coons weigh up to 18 lbs.
Maine Coons are known as very large domestic cats, they have medium-long legs with hair tufts between their toe beans. Maine Coons have quite long bodies, whereas Norwegian Forest cats aren’t so long. Norwegian Forest cats have higher hips, since their hind legs are longer than their front legs, and they also have hair tufts in between the toe beans.
6. Breeders & Prices
You need to find reputable and registered breeders, whenever you want to buy a purebred cat, no matter the breed, be it a Maine Coon or a Norwegian Forest Cat. The price will vary depending on the cat’s age, breed standards, breeder’s rules, and of course the location of the cattery.
Norwegian Forest cats are usually less expensive than Maine Coon cats in the USA. Their breeding process, food, paperwork, etc. costs a lot so their price is quite high.
Norwegian Forest cats‘ price usually ranges from $800 to $1500, while the average price of a Maine Coon varies between $1000 and $2K and they can cost a lot more depending on the breeder and location.
7. Coat Texture
Norwegian Forest Cat: Their thick, double-layered coat is dense, water-resistant, and designed to protect them from cold Scandinavian winters. Their fur is slightly coarser compared to the Maine Coon.
Maine Coon: While also long and dense, Maine Coon fur is softer, often described as silky to the touch. Their coat has a more tufted texture, especially around the neck and ears.
8. Grooming Needs
Norwegian Forest Cat: Due to their dense coat, Norwegian Forest Cats require regular grooming, but their fur is less prone to matting compared to the Maine Coon’s.
Maine Coon: Maine Coons need regular brushing to keep their coats free of tangles and mats. They have thicker, silkier fur that can be more prone to matting, especially around the underarms and behind the ears.
9. Activity Level
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Norwegian Forest Cat: Norwegian Forest Cats are agile climbers that love exploring high places. They are more independent and enjoy perching on bookshelves, cat trees, or any elevated space where they can observe their surroundings.
While they do enjoy playtime, they are less demanding than the Maine Coon and are content with occasional interactive toys and climbing adventures.
Maine Coon: Maine Coons are highly playful and energetic, often acting like kittens well into adulthood. They enjoy interactive games, including fetch, puzzle toys, and even water play.
Their social nature means they love engaging with their owners and will often follow them around the house. Unlike the Norwegian Forest Cat, which prefers climbing, Maine Coons are more likely to engage in ground-level play and human interaction.
10. Popularity
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Norwegian Forest Cat: Norwegian Forest Cats are less common outside of Europe but are highly prized in Scandinavia, where they are considered a national treasure in Norway.
Their rarity makes them harder to find in the United States, and they are often available only through specialized breeders. Despite this, their majestic appearance and independent nature have earned them a loyal following among cat enthusiasts who appreciate their wild, yet affectionate demeanor.
Maine Coon: Maine Coons are one of the most popular cat breeds in the United States and are widely recognized worldwide.
Their friendly, playful nature and impressive size make them a favorite among cat lovers. Because of their widespread appeal, they are more readily available than Norwegian Forest Cats, and many breeders specialize in them. Their dog-like personality and adaptability make them a top choice for families and first-time cat owners.