Maine Coon Vs Norwegian Forest Cat
Choosing between a Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat can be a tough decision for cat lovers since both breeds have their own unique appeal and characteristics.
This article compares both breeds and helps readers determine which cat breed best suits their family.
To start things off, I’ve created the comparison table below to enable you to compare the similarities and differences between Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest Cats:
| Feature | Maine Coon | Norwegian Forest Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States | Norway |
| Size | Large | Medium to Large |
| Weight | Males: 18 – 22 lbs Females: 12 -15 lbs | Males: 12-16 lbs Females: 9-12 lbs |
| Body Type | Robust and muscular | Slender but muscular |
| Head Shape | Broad and slightly squared | Triangular with high cheekbones |
| Ears | Large and tufted | Large, tufted, and ear tips may be lynx-like |
| Eyes | Large and expressive | Large, almond-shaped |
| Coat Length | Long | Long |
| Coat Texture | Thick and semi-water- resistant | Dense and double-layered |
| Coat Colors | 75+ colors and patterns | Various colors and patterns |
| Tail | Long, bushy, and plumed | Long, bushy, and may have rings |
| Temperament | Friendly, gentle, and sociable | Affectionate, intelligent, and active |
| Activity Level | Active and playful | Active and agile |
| Grooming Needs | Regular grooming needed | Regular grooming needed |
| Health Considerations | HCM, hip dysplasia, obesity | HCM, hip dysplasia, genetic disorders |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years | 14-16 years |
Origins And History
Maine Coon
Maine Coons are one of the oldest natural breeds in North America, with a history tracing back to the early settlers in Maine.
They are known for their rugged, robust appearance, which helped them survive the harsh New England winters.
Learn more about the origins of the Maine Coon cat breed, in my informative guide.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest Cats, or “Wegies,” have roots in Scandinavian folklore. These cats have been around for centuries, often depicted in Norse mythology. They are built to withstand the cold, with a thick, water-resistant coat.
Size And Build
The Maine Coon is known for their large size, being awarded the title ‘Largest Domesticated Cat Breed In The World’.
Male Maine Coons can weigh between 18-22 lbs (8-10 kg), and females between 12-15 lbs (5-7 kg). They stand about 10-16 inches tall (25-40 cm) and 19-40 inches long!
They have a muscular and sturdy build, with broad chests and strong legs suited for climbing.
By comparison, the Norwegian Forest Cat is slightly smaller than the Maine Coon cat.
Male Norwegian Forest Cats weigh roughly 12-18 lbs (5.5-8 kg), and females 9-12 lbs (4-5.5 kg). They have a similar height range to Maine Coons.
They are also muscular but leaner, with a long, elegant body ideal for agility and outdoor activities.
Coat And Colors
Maine Coon cats have a shaggy, sem-water-resistant coat available in 75+ different colors and patterns. Here’s a guide to ALL Maine Coon Colors And Patterns.
The Maine Coons coat is soft and dense, with longer fur on the body, shorter on the head, and a ruff around the neck. They have three layers of fur, two short dense undercoats, and one long outer guard coat.
Norwegian Forest Cats have a double-layered coat that is dense and waterproof, typically seen in colors like:
- Black
- White
- Red
- Tabby Patterns
The outer coat is coarse and water-resistant, while the undercoat is soft and insulating.
Distinctive Features
The most notable feature of a Maine Coon is its tufted ears, bushy tails, and expressive eyes. They have large, wide-set eyes that can be green, gold, copper, or a combination.
Learn more about the different Maine Coon Eye Colors, in this guide.
A Norwegian Forest Cat can be recognized by their triangular face, almond-shaped eyes, and prominent ear tufts. They have almond-shaped eyes that are usually green, gold, or copper.
Temperament And Personality
Maine Coon
Maine Coons are renowned for their friendly, sociable, and playful nature, often earning them the nickname “gentle giants.”
Their friendly disposition and adaptable nature make them suitable for various household environments, whether it’s a bustling family home or a quieter setting.
These cats are highly affectionate towards their families and enjoy interacting with humans. They are known for their dog-like behavior, such as following their owners around the house and even playing fetch.
If you’re interested in teaching your cat to play fetch with you, follow the instructions in this guide.
Maine Coons are intelligent and curious, often exploring their surroundings with enthusiasm.
Maine Coons are exceptionally adaptable cats. They typically get along well with children, other cats, and even dogs.
They are known to adjust well to new environments and can thrive in different living conditions. Maine Coons are not only social but also exhibit a calm demeanor, which contributes to their reputation as excellent companions.
Here’s a picture of Mika, my huge 20lbs Maine Coon cat. We adopted him at 4 years old, and despite being quite shy when he first arrived, he’s now way more confident and loving in his unique way.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest Cats (NFCs) are characterized by their independent yet gentle and curious nature. These cats are intelligent and enjoy exploring their surroundings.
They are known for their strong hunting instincts but also form deep bonds with their human companions.
They are not as vocal as other cat breeds but communicate effectively through body language and soft vocalizations.
While independent, Norwegian Forest Cats are adaptable creatures. With proper introduction and socialization, they can get along well with other pets in the household.
They are gentle, calm and tolerant, traits that make them suitable for multi-pet environments where they can coexist peacefully
Regards behavior, they exhibit a calm and laid-back demeanor, preferring to observe their surroundings before engaging. They are patient and gentle with children and have a reputation for being affectionate towards their families.
Understanding these detailed temperament and personality traits can help prospective owners choose between the Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest Cat based on their preferences and living conditions (source 1,2,3).
Health Considerations
The health conditions table below compares the medical problems that Maine Coon cats and Norwegian Forest Cat are prone to:
| Health Condition | Maine Coon | Norwegian Forest Cat |
|---|---|---|
| HCM | Common genetic heart disease | Common genetic heart disease |
| Hip Dysplasia | Common due to their large size | Present, though less common than in MC |
| Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) | Specific to Maine Coons | Rare or non- existent |
| Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) | Occurs in some lines | Rare, not a significant concern |
| Periodontal Disease | Common if dental care is neglected | Common if dental care is neglected |
| Glycogen Storage Disease Type IV | Rare or non- existent | Genetic disease specific to NFCs |
| Obesity | Prone due to their size and appetite | Prone if not properly managed |
Let’s take a closer look at each of these issues:
Maine Coon
1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
A genetic heart disease where the heart muscle thickens, reducing the heart’s efficiency and leading to potential heart failure. Your cat may show signs of difficulty breathing, lethargy, and fainting.
2. Hip Dysplasia
A genetic condition where the hip joint is malformed, causing arthritis and mobility issues. Symptoms include difficulty walking, limping, and reluctance to jump or climb.
3. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
A genetic disorder affecting the motor neurons of the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy. Symptoms include muscle weakness, abnormal gait, and difficulty running or jumping.
4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
A condition where cysts form in the kidneys, potentially leading to renal failure. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and lethargy.
5. Periodontal Disease
This is where gum disease leads to tooth loss and other oral health issues. Symptoms include bad breath, red or swollen gums, and difficulty eating.
6. Obesity
Excess body weight can lead to various health issues, including diabetes and joint problems. Symptoms include excessive weight gain, difficulty moving, and lethargy.
Norwegian Forest Cat (NFC)
1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Similar to Maine Coons, NFCs can suffer from this genetic heart condition. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, lethargy, and fainting.
2. Hip Dysplasia
A condition they share with Maine Coons, where the hip joint is malformed. Symptoms include difficulty walking, limping, and reluctance to jump or climb.
3. Glycogen Storage Disease Type IV
A genetic condition that affects the metabolism of glucose, leading to severe health issues and often fatal outcomes in kittens. Symptoms include poor growth, muscle weakness, and lethargy.
4. Periodontal Disease
Like many cats, NFCs can suffer from gum disease leading to oral health problems. Symptoms include bad breath, red or swollen gums, and difficulty eating.
5. Obesity
Without proper diet and exercise, NFCs can also become overweight, leading to other health issues. Symptoms include excessive weight gain, difficulty moving, and lethargy.
Price Comparison
When considering adding a Maine Coon or Norwegian Forest Cat to your family, understanding the cost implications is important.
| Aspect | Maine Coon | Norwegian Forest Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Kitten (Purebred) | $1,000 – $3,000 | $800 – $2,500 |
| Adult (Purebred) | $700 – $2,000 | $600 – $1,800 |
| Rescue (Adoption Fee) | $100 – $300 | $100 – $250 |
Here’s a detailed comparison of the prices for kittens, adults, and rescue cats from both breeds.
Maine Coon
Kittens
Purebred from Breeders: $1,000 – $3,000
The price varies based on the breeder’s reputation, the kitten’s pedigree, and whether the kitten is show-quality or pet-quality.
Here’s a list of TICA Registered Maine Coon Cat Breeders.
Adults
Purebred from Breeders: $700 – $2,000
Adults may cost less than kittens as they are usually past their breeding prime or being rehomed by breeders.
Rescue
Adoption Fee: $100 – $300
Adoption fees are generally lower and help cover the cost of vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and other medical expenses.
If you’re interested in adopting a Maine Coon cat, check out this Cat Adoption Guide for more details on where to begin.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Kittens
Purebred from Breeders: $800 – $2,500
Similar to Maine Coons, prices depend on the breeder, pedigree, and quality of the kitten.
Adults
Purebred from Breeders: $600 – $1,800
Adults might be priced lower for similar reasons as Maine Coons, such as being past breeding age or rehomed.
Rescue
Adoption Fee: $100 – $250
Adoption fees are typically less than purchasing from breeders and cover basic medical care costs.
Caring For Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat
The table below summarises these two large cat breeds care requirements:
| Aspect | Maine Coon | Norwegian Forest Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Groom | 2-3 times a week | Once a week (increase during shedding seasons) |
| Bathing | Occasional baths manage shedding and cleanliness | Occasional baths |
| Diet | High-quality cat food high in protein, mix of wet and dry food | High-quality protein diet, a mix of wet and dry food |
| Supplements | Joint supplements recommended by vet | Joint and other health-specific supplements recommended by vet |
Maine Coons have a long, thick coat that requires regular grooming to keep it tangle-free and healthy.
Tips
- Brushing: Use a stainless steel comb or slicker brush to prevent mats and tangles. Aim to brush your Maine Coon at least 2-3 times a week.
- Bathing: While not necessary frequently, occasional baths can help manage shedding and keep their coat clean. Use a cat-friendly shampoo.
- Trimming: Regularly check and trim their nails to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
- Ear Cleaning: Clean their ears regularly to prevent wax build-up and infections.
- Dental Care: Brush their teeth weekly to maintain oral health and prevent periodontal disease.
By comparison, Norwegian Forest Cats have a dense, double-layered coat that also needs consistent grooming to prevent matting and remove loose fur.
Tips
- Brushing: Brush their coat at least once a week to remove loose fur and prevent mats. During shedding seasons, increase the frequency to 2-3 times a week.
- Bathing: Like Maine Coons, occasional baths can be beneficial but aren’t required frequently. Use a gentle cat shampoo.
- Trimming: Regular nail trims are important to keep their claws healthy and prevent damage to furniture.
- Ear Cleaning: Keep their ears clean to avoid infections.
- Dental Care: Maintain a routine of brushing their teeth to prevent dental issues.
Diet And Nutrition
Maine Coons require a balanced diet high in protein to maintain their muscular build and energy levels.
Tips
- High-Quality Food: Feed them high-quality cat food formulated for large breeds. Look for foods with meat as the primary ingredient.
- Portion Control: Monitor their food intake to prevent obesity. Follow feeding guidelines provided by the food manufacturer and your vet’s advice.
- Mix of Wet and Dry Food: Offering a combination of wet and dry food can help meet their hydration needs and prevent urinary issues.
- Supplements: Consider joint supplements if recommended by your vet, especially if they show signs of hip dysplasia.
Norwegian Forest Cats have similar dietary needs, focusing on high-quality protein to support their active lifestyle and robust physique.
Tips
- High-Quality Food: Provide a diet rich in high-quality protein. Choose foods that list meat as the first ingredient.
- Portion Control: Keep an eye on their weight and adjust portions to maintain a healthy body condition.
- Mix of Wet and Dry Food: A combination of wet and dry food helps ensure they stay hydrated and receive balanced nutrition.
- Supplements: If your cat is prone to joint issues or other specific health concerns, consult your vet about appropriate supplements.
For guidance on the best foods to buy, read my article 5 Best Cat Foods For Maine Coons.
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
Choosing between a Maine Coon and a Norwegian Forest Cat depends on various factors, including personality, physical characteristics, grooming needs, and cost.
Both breeds offer unique and endearing traits that can make them wonderful companions.
Maine Coons are known for their friendly, sociable, and playful nature. They are highly adaptable and get along well with children, other cats, and even dogs. T
heir robust build, tufted ears, and bushy tails make them stand out, but their thick coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
The cost of acquiring a Maine Coon can range from moderate to high, especially when purchasing from reputable breeders.
Norwegian Forest Cats, on the other hand, are independent yet gentle and curious. They form strong bonds with their human companions and are known for their intelligence and exploration.
Their dense, double-layered coat also requires consistent grooming to maintain, but their calm and tolerant behavior makes them suitable for multi-pet households.
Norwegian Forest Cats are slightly more affordable on average compared to Maine Coons, but still require careful consideration of ongoing care and grooming needs.
