Compare breeds
Norwegian Forest Cat vs Scottish Fold
Norwegian Forest Cat
Long
Scottish Fold
Short
Choose the Norwegian Forest Cat if you want…
- an active companion for long walks and play
Choose the Scottish Fold if you want…
- a flat or small home
- less hair around the house
- less time spent grooming
- a quieter companion
- a calmer companion
Side by side
| Trait | Norwegian Forest Cat | Scottish Fold |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Weight | 4–8 kg (9–18 lb) | 3–6 kg (7–13 lb) |
| Height | 30–40 cm (12–16 in) | 20–25 cm (8–10 in) |
| Life span | 14–16 years | 11–14 years |
| Origin | Norway | Scotland |
| Energy | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Trainability | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Suits a flat | 3/5 | 5/5 |
| Shedding | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Grooming needs | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 2/5 | 1/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Norwegian Forest Cat or the Scottish Fold?
The Norwegian Forest Cat — typically about 1.3 times the weight. Norwegian Forest Cat: 4–8 kg (9–18 lb); Scottish Fold: 3–6 kg (7–13 lb).
Which lives longer, the Norwegian Forest Cat or the Scottish Fold?
The Norwegian Forest Cat, on average. Norwegian Forest Cat: 14–16 years; Scottish Fold: 11–14 years.
Is the Norwegian Forest Cat or the Scottish Fold better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
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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