Compare breeds
Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest Cat
Maine Coon
Long
Norwegian Forest Cat
Long
Choose the Maine Coon if you want…
- a family with children
- a home with other pets
- a dog or cat that learns quickly
Choose the Norwegian Forest Cat if you want…
Much the same on our scales — meet both and see which personality suits you.
Side by side
| Trait | Maine Coon | Norwegian Forest Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Weight | 4.5–8 kg (10–18 lb) | 4–8 kg (9–18 lb) |
| Height | 25–41 cm (10–16 in) | 30–40 cm (12–16 in) |
| Life span | 12–15 years | 14–16 years |
| Origin | United States | Norway |
| Energy | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with children | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with other pets | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Suits a flat | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Shedding | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Grooming needs | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 2/5 | 2/5 |
Quick answers
Which lives longer, the Maine Coon or the Norwegian Forest Cat?
The Norwegian Forest Cat, on average. Maine Coon: 12–15 years; Norwegian Forest Cat: 14–16 years.
Is the Maine Coon or the Norwegian Forest Cat better with children?
The Maine Coon scores higher in our profiles (5 vs 4 out of 5). Always supervise young children with any pet.
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