Compare breeds
Birman vs Norwegian Forest Cat
Birman
Long
Norwegian Forest Cat
Long
Choose the Birman if you want…
- a flat or small home
- less hair around the house
- a calmer companion
Choose the Norwegian Forest Cat if you want…
- an active companion for long walks and play
Side by side
| Trait | Birman | Norwegian Forest Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Weight | 3–7 kg (7–15 lb) | 4–8 kg (9–18 lb) |
| Height | 20–30 cm (8–12 in) | 30–40 cm (12–16 in) |
| Life span | 12–16 years | 14–16 years |
| Origin | Burma (developed in France) | Norway |
| Energy | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Trainability | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Suits a flat | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Shedding | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Grooming needs | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 2/5 | 2/5 |
Quick answers
Which lives longer, the Birman or the Norwegian Forest Cat?
The Norwegian Forest Cat, on average. Birman: 12–16 years; Norwegian Forest Cat: 14–16 years.
Is the Birman or the Norwegian Forest Cat better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
Other comparisons
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts