Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat

The Maine Coon cat looks very similar to the Norwegian Forest Cat, giving yet more weight to the theory that Maine Coons are descendants of the Norwegian Forest Cat.

Never mix these two cats breeds up again. Instead, use my Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest cat comparison tables below.

Norwegian Forest Cats have an equilateral triangle head-shaped. Maine Coons have wedged-shaped heads with square muzzles. Maine Coons are far more loyal and playful than the Norwegian Forest Cat which is only loyal if given attention. The Maine Coons fur is long uneven-length fur, whilst Norwegian Forest Cats have even fur length across their body.

Although they do share many similarities in terms of looks and personality traits though, there are still quite a few key differences that are often forgotten.

Physical Differences Between Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat

The Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest Cat are known for being extremely large cat breeds. They even rank in the Top 12 Largest Cat Breed Guide!

They both jointly hold the record for being the largest domesticated cat breeds in the world.

Whilst the Maine Coon cat originates in Maine, the United States, the Norwegian Forest Cat is thought to originate in Northern Europe.

They are often referred to as “Skogkatt” in Norway, their native country.

The lifespan of these cat breeds differs slightly. Maine Coons tend to live to >12 years, though some owners do report their cat reaching up to 20 years!

The Norwegian Forest Cat by comparison tends to live between 14-16 years.

Although they look very similar physically, and both have been bred in a wide variety of colors, there are still some easy ways to tell the difference between these two magnificent cat breeds.

Take a look at my table below which summarises the key physical differences between the Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat physical differences (source 1,2):

FeatureMaine CoonNorwegian Forest Cat
SummaryHardy cat breeds can withstand
harsh winter climates. Originates
in Maine
Large sturdy cat breed. Muscular.
Females are smaller. Males are
large and imposing. Originates
in Northern Europe
SizeLargest Cat BreedLargest Cat Breed
Length19-40 inches (48-101 cm)
HeightMale: 10-16 inches (25-40cm)
Female: 8-14 inches (20-35cm)
WeightMale: 15-25 lbs (6.8-11.3 kg)
Female:8-12 lbs (3.6-5.4 kg)
Male: 10-20 lbs (4.5-9 kg)
Female: 8-18 lbs (3.6-8 kg)
Head
Shape
Wedge-shaped head, with a
square muzzle. High cheekbones.
Medium width slightly longer face
Equilateral triangle head shape.
Flat forehead
Nose
Shape
Gently curving noseStraight nose, from brow ridge
to nose tip, without a break
Eye
Shape
Large, expressive, almond-shaped
eyes. Eyes set at a slight angle –
the inner corner is lower than
the outer corner
Large, expressive, almond-shaped
eyes. Eyes set at a slight angle –
the inner the corner is lower
than the outer corner
Muzzle
/ Chin
Large, expressive, almond-shaped
eyes. Eyes set at a slight angle –
the inner corner is lower than
the outer corner
Gently rounded, firm chin. Whisker
pads are not pronounced, nor
pinched
NeckMedium lengthShort heavily muscled neck
Ears‘Lynx-like’ ear tufts. Ears taper,
appearing pointed. Large ears
are wide at the base,
approximately one ear’s width
apart, and set high on the head
Lynx-like ear tufts. Medium-large
ears with a broad base. Rounded
at the tip. Heavily furnished. Set
on the side of the head, cup
pointing slightly outwards
CoatLynx-like ear tufts. Medium-large
ears with a broad base. Rounded
at the tip. Heavily furnished. Set
on the side of the head, a cup
pointing slightly outwards
Distinctive double coat. Silky
Coat. Fluffy fur. Even long hair.
No ruff of hair on the neck.
Water-shedding hair. Wooly
undercoat. Glossy topcoat
TailA long thick bushy tail that tapers.
The fur is long and flowing
Long bushy tail with long
sweeping hair laying in one
direction. The base of the
tail is broader
Body
Shape
The medium-length the body looks
square. Muscular. Substantial
bone structure. Considerable girth,
with a broad chest
Large round paws with tufts
of hair. 4 toes at the back.
5 toes at the front.

Legs wide-set, substantial,
medium length. Straight
forelegs
Legs
& Feet
Thick, smooth, long shaggy coat.
Fluffy fur. Uneven lengths of long
hair – hair longer on the stomach
and britches, and short on the
shoulders. Ruff of hair around the
neck. Short undercoat
Medium legs with front legs
shorter than hind legs.
Substantial lower legs

Firm large round paws, with
heavy tufting between toes
GrowthSlow-growing cat breed, reaching
full size between 3-5 years
The medium-length body
looks square. Muscular.
Substantial bone structure.
Considerable girth, with a
broad chest
Maine Coon Vs Norwegian Forest Cat

Maine Coon Vs Norwegian Forest Cat Shape

As you can see from the table, the best place to start when trying to tell the difference between the Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat is by looking at their head shapes.

Whilst the Norwegian Forest Cat is known for having a very triangular-shaped head, with a flat forehead, the Maine Coon has a more wedge-shaped head.

If you are still struggling to tell the difference, take a look at their fur coats.

This is another big clue since the Maine Coon breed has long uneven fur, with a ruff of hair around their neckline and chest. This mane of hair often makes them look like mini lions!

The Norwegian Forest Cat by comparison has a double coat of fur that is even in length, all over their body.

They rarely have a ruff of hair across their chest and neckline, and their top coat of fur is considered to look ‘glossy’.

Both cats, however, have thick fluffy fur that helps to keep them warm, even in the very coldest of climates.

Should you hope to tell the difference between the cat breeds, by looking at their bushy tails, then you might feel a little disappointed.

Yes, their tails are slightly different, but the differences are harder to spot for the average individual.

They both have long and impressive tails.

But it is harder to notice the long-flowing nature of the Norwegian Forest Cat’s tail, which tapers to a tip when compared to the Maine Coon thick tail which tapers to a bushy end.

Both cat breeds have long tails, which are the same length as their bodies (if measuring from their shoulder to the base of their tail).

Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat Price Comparison

There is a considerable price difference to factor in when choosing to buy a Maine Coon cat or Norwegian Forest Cat. Take a look at the table below to find out more details.

Ultimately, the cat breed you pick will be dependent upon your own personal family situation, finances, and which cat personality traits you consider important in a cat.

For instance, potential owners are likely to pay the Maine Coon kitten premium price if they have young children since this particular cat breed is known for:

  • Being extremely gentle
  • Laid back
  • Good around children

The table below shows how much you have to pay if you would like to buy a purebred Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat:

Age
Range
Maine CoonNorwegian Forest
Cat
Kitten$1000 (£811)$800-1500
(£624 -1169)
Cat$600
Senior
Cat
$600
Rescue
Cat
$250
(boarding costs)
$250
(boarding costs)
Maine Coon Vs Norwegian Forest Cat Price By Age

Personality Trait Comparison Of Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat

When we compare the Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat, it is important to consider each cat breed’s personality traits and characteristics.

Whilst both do appear similar in nature, there are some subtle differences that set each cat breed apart.

Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat
Picture Of Norwegian Forest Cat

The table below summarises the key differences between a Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest cats personality traits:

Personality
Trait
Maine CoonNorwegian
Forest Cat
SociableSociable and outgoing.
Males are confident
around strangers,
females are more
reserved
Sociable and
outgoing. Can be
reserved
around strangers
Friendly
/ Gentle
Very friendly, laid back,
and gentle. Seeks
attention from owners.
Often named ‘gentle
giants’.
Very friendly, laid
back, and gentle.
Doesn’t require
lots of attention
LoyaltyExtremely loyal, even
if you don’t interact
with them
Only loyal if you
interact with them
Highly
Intelligent
IntelligentIntelligent
TrainingHighly trainableHighly trainable
PlayfulVery playful cat breed,
full of energy.
‘Kitten-like’ playfulness
until late in life
Lazier. Will play
for a little, then
rest
Hunting
Skills
Amazing hunting skillsAmazing hunting
skills
ClimbersGreat climbers. Prefer to
take the easy route up,
rather than jumping
straight to the top of a
wall
Strong claws.
Excellent climbers
ExerciseCan be trained to walk
on a leash, with a
harness. Dog-like in
nature
Will not walk on a
leash
Love
Water
Fascinated by waterEnjoy playing in the
water
VoiceTalkative. Loves to
chirp and trill
A quiet voice, unless
it wants something
Family
Friendly
Great family pets.
Very laid back and good
with young children
Good family pet.
Good with children,
but less laid back
than Maine Coon
Get On
With
Other
Pets
Good with other pets.
Prefer to make friends
with them, rather than
fight
Maine Coon Vs Norwegian Forest Cat Characteristic Comparison

One of the key differences between the Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest cat is their level of playfulness.

Whilst the Maine Coon is known for its very kitten-like playful nature, which continues late into this breed’s lifetime, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a touch lazier!

They don’t mind a bit of play, but ultimately won’t be entertaining their human family with play all evening long. Instead, they prefer short bursts of play followed by rest.

Another key personality characteristic that distinguishes the Maine Coon cat from the Norwegian Forest Cat, is its laid-back nature.

This characteristic is particularly important should you be considering buying a Maine Coon cat, and have young children.

Why? Because their laid-back nature and temperament make them great with young children.

Take a look at this Youtube video of our 5-year-old daughter and our Maine Coon cat.

Both love each other dearly, and our almost eight-year-old Maine Coon is massively patient, even when she pushes his head around in a way children often do.

Norwegian Forest Cats

By comparison, the Norwegian Forest cat is known for being slightly less laid back in temperament, than a Maine Coon cat.

Therefore, although they make great family pets, you may not be able to trust them entirely with your children.

Every cat’s personality is different though, so maybe you will find a Norwegian Forest Cat that is extremely laid back! 

Another key difference between Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cats is that although the Maine Coon is not officially known as a ‘lap cat‘, many do love sitting on your lap for a short while (before they get too hot).

The Norwegian Forest Cat by contrast is not considered a ‘lap cat’, but does love a good stroke or scratch.

In general, both cats are pretty independent and curious, but the Norwegian Forest Cat may need slightly more space than a Maine Coon, since they prefer less attention and playtime.

The Maine Coon by contrast is considered very ‘dog-like and will happily spend as much time as is humanly possible with their owners.

Owners of Maine Coon cats need to make sure that they cater to their cat’s social needs.

Which Is Bigger Norwegian Forest Cat Or Maine Coon?

The Maine Coon Cat and Norwegian Forest Cat are two of the largest domesticated cat breeds in the world.

Statistics show that both cat breeds are roughly the same size, though the Maine Coon has the potential of growing slightly bigger.

If we look at the male Maine Coon, we can see that it reaches up to 16 inches (40 cm) in height, between 15-25 lbs (6.8-11.3 kg) in weight, and 19-40 inches (48-101 cm) in length.

The Norwegian Forest Cat by comparison weighs between 7.9 – 19.8 lbs (3.6-9 kg) (source 1).

Caring For Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat

Maine Coon cats should be fed high-quality dry food, containing high levels of protein, low carbohydrates, and Omega 3 and 6 fat and fatty acids.

It is not recommended that you feed your Maine Coon more than 2-3 portions of wet food per week.

For guidance on the best foods to buy, read my article 5 Best Cat Foods For Maine Coons.

Norwegian Forest Cats should also only be fed high-quality foods, containing high levels of protein.

They also need taurine in their meals since this critical amino acid ensures your cat’s heart health and vision remain healthy.

Nutritionally balanced food ensures that they stay fit and healthy.

Both the Maine Coon and the Norwegian Forest Cat require access to a water source at all times, to prevent them from becoming dehydrated.

Here are some great cat supplements that ensure both of these large cat breeds are consuming the vitamins, nutrients, and minerals that they need.

Conclusion

I’ve always been fascinated to learn more about the Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat since these cat breeds look so physically similar.

The Maine Coon is also often thought to be a descendant of the Norwegian Forest Cat, so there may be more to their physical similarity than we first might think!

Ultimately, the Maine Coons true lineage will remain shrouded in mystery.

What we do know, however, is that this breed is the oldest natural breed of Northern America, originating in Maine, United States.

They are incredibly loved across the world, and were awarded the title ‘State Cat Of Maine’.

The Norwegian Forest Cat by comparison originates in Northern Europe and is also known as ‘Skogkatt’ in Norway.

Whilst these cat breeds share many personality traits and characteristics, there are still some very key differences that enable you to tell them apart.

The first of which is their head-shaped, since the Maine Coon has a wedge-shaped head, whereas the Norwegian Forest Cat has a more triangular-shaped head, with a flat forehead.

The second key difference is that the Maine Coon has a more rectangular-shaped body, whereas the Norwegian Forest Cat’s body is considered more square-shaped.

Finally, there are clear differences between each cat breed’s personality traits too, since the Maine Coon cat loves lots of attention, is great with children, and is considered very laid back.

They are extremely sociable and outgoing and make for great first-time cat owners due to their gentle laid-back nature.

The Norwegian Forest Cat by comparison is not as needy for attention from their human families and can seem slightly less laid back, particularly around children.

They may require more ‘space’ to rest since they enjoy time on their own, as well as with their human family.

Related Questions

Maine Coon Vs Persian

Discover the similarities and differences between the Maine Coon and Persian cat breeds, in this article.

Maine Coon Vs Siberian

Do you know how to spot a Siberian cat? Or, would you mistake them for a Maine Coon cat? If you are not sure what makes the Maine Coon cat so special, read this comparison guide.

Maine Coon Central

Hello! My name is Katrina Stewardson, and I’m a CRAZY CAT LADY! I've been in love with the Maine Coon cat breed ever since we welcomed an adorable male Maine Coon kitten into our home 10 years ago. We called him 'Pippin', but he also goes by the name ‘Pipsteroo’! Our enormous, kind-hearted cat genuinely thinks he's a dog and has convinced me that cats are Man's True Best Friend! UPDATE: We recently adopted two 4-year-old male Maine Coon cats. They are named Mika and Bali.

Recent Posts