Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats can look and act alike if you are unsure what characteristics to look out for but keep reading and we will tell you how you can spot the differences between Maine Coons and Forest Cats.
Firstly both the Cats share very similar traits and its believed in some circles that the Maine Coon cat is a descendant of its Norwegian counterpart purely based on this fact.
The cats both grow to a large size as a breed and have thick silky coats to keep them warm in the harsh winters. They are both very social and friendly cats but have some key characteristics that separate them from each other.
Maine Coons are notoriously quick learners and well known as being intelligent cats. They can also show great loyalty and really love being around people especially in a loving family. The Forest cats are also equally intelligent but unlike the Maine Coon breed, they are not as fond of interaction and play and much prefer their own company and to find a nice spot to sleep away from any hustle and bustle.
Training a Maine Coon is also very easy with some owners even being able to take the cats on a walk using a leash which has led some cat communities to see them more like a ‘dog’ than a cat breed. However Norwegian Forest Cats show limited interest in being walked on a leash or trained and would much prefer being lazy and getting some sleep.
Difference in Looks
At first glance, you would be forgiven for thinking the Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest Cat were the same breed however below we’ve listed some key features that you want to look out for sure signs they are not the same breed of cats:
Head Shape
The Maine Coons head shape is slightly wedged with a squared muzzle area. The forehead also has a gently rounded curve. The Norwegian Forest Cat has quite a flat forehead with more of a triangle shape towards the muzzle.
Nose Shape and Size
A Coons nose shape is more gently curved than that of a Norwegian Forest Cat which has a straight bridge to its nose.
Ear Shape and Size
Norwegian Forest Cats’ outer ear edges are in-line with the head all the way down to their chin helping to form the triangular shape that sets them apart. Maine Coons are set higher towards the top of their heads around the width of one ear apart from each other.
Body Shape
Maine Coon cat’s bodies are usually long and rectangular in shape which makes them seem quite large when sitting on the hind legs especially as they have quite a broad thick furred chest. The Norwegian Cat is smaller in length and squarer in shape but they both have quite large chests.
Growth and Size
A Norwegian Forest cat can grow in weight up to 15 pounds with the male more noticeably larger than the females. On the other hand, Maine Coon cat’s weight can go up to 20 pounds or more due to the thickness of their winter coat and body type.
Conclusion
The simple fact is when it comes to owning Maine Coon vs Norwegian Forest cat both can make simply great pets depending on how you keep them. A Maine Coon being more outgoing and open to play and the Norwegian Forest Cat enjoying a more relaxed and cozy atmosphere. Put plainly either cat breed will make a great companion providing you choose the breed that suits you and your home best.
