Norwegian Forest Cat vs. Maine Coon: A Clash of Colossal Cats

Not all cats are created equal, even if they appear strikingly similar. At first glance, could you tell a Norwegian Forest Cat from a Maine Coon?

Here’s a look at these two large breeds, each with a personality as grand as their size.

Norwegian Roots

As the Norwegians say, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing. To brave the freezing Scandinavian winters, the Norwegian Forest cat — often called the "Wegie" (pronounced "wee-gee") — developed a dense, waterproof double coat of fur.

The breed’s origins remain somewhat mysterious; it might have descended from Siberian cats or Turkish longhaired felines that arrived in modern-day Norway.

However, historical records reveal that by around the year 1000 C.E, a distinct breed of domestic cat had emerged in this region of Europe. These ancestors of today’s Wegies were likely kept aboard Viking ships and settlements to fend off mice. Nowadays, they are cherished by cat enthusiasts for their unique beauty.

Maine Coon Origins

As its name suggests, the Maine Coon hails from the northern New England region. Once again, the origins of this breed are somewhat mysterious. A popular legend even suggests that the first Maine Coons can be traced back to Marie Antoinette (of all people).

According to the tale, during the French Revolution, she supposedly had her cherished cats sent to North America, where they mated with local felines. While the truth may be less dramatic, it’s likely that Maine Coons do have European ancestry. Experts believe the breed originated from long-haired cats that sailors transported across the North Atlantic.

Like Scandinavia, New England experiences harsh winters with heavy snow and bone-chilling winds. The Maine Coon’s thick, shaggy coat is well-suited to handle these freezing conditions. Additionally, their large, tufted "snowshoe paws" sometimes even feature extra toes.

Norwegian Forest Cat vs. Maine Coon Size

Fully grown adults of both sexes are powerfully built — and quite heavy. Mature females usually weigh between 9 and 12 pounds (4 to 5.4 kilograms), while males typically reach 16 pounds (7.3 kilograms) or more. As a result, the Norwegian Forest cat is one of the largest cat breeds.

However, the Maine Coon takes the crown. This colossal cat can weigh over 25 pounds (11.3 kilograms), making it a true giant. In fact, on May 22, 2018, a Maine Coon named Barivel set a new Guinness World Record for the longest domestic cat ever recorded. From nose to tail, this world-record largest Maine Coon measured a staggering 47 inches (120 centimeters) in length.

Interestingly, the previous record-holder was another Maine Coon. It seems like the breed has established a furry dynasty of record-breakers.

Facial Features

Some cat lovers believe the Norwegian Forest cat is the direct ancestor of the Maine Coon. (After all, we know Norse settlers arrived in what is now Newfoundland around the 11th century C.E.)

This theory reflects the many similarities between these two long-haired, large-bodied breeds. However, as Sandra Cagan points out, there are also numerous distinctions between them.

Cagan, a Florida resident, owns the Orlando Cat Café, a coffee shop where visitors can relax with adoptable cats in need of loving homes. She personally owns two purebred Maine Coons and is highly familiar with the breed’s unique physical traits.

"The Maine Coon has a broader muzzle compared to the Forest cat," Cagan shares via email. In contrast, the Forest cat features a flatter forehead, a straight nose, and a triangular skull, which gives it what Cagan describes as "more of a 'typical cat face.'" With its high cheekbones and wide snout, the Maine Coon’s face is more lion-like in appearance.

Fur Differences

Another key difference between the two breeds lies in their fur. While both the Norwegian Forest Cat and Maine Coon are long-haired cats available in a variety of colors, each breed has a signature hairstyle.

"Both breeds have distinct ear tufts, but the Maine Coon’s are larger," Cagan explains. Additionally, while Wegies have tails that end in pointed tips, the Maine Coon’s tail is bushier and has a less defined shape.

Maine Coon vs. Norwegian Forest Cat: Voice and Personality

Beyond their physical appearance, these cats may express themselves differently. "Maine Coons are notably vocal; they often make chirping sounds," Cagan explains. "Norwegian Forest cats, on the other hand, tend to be more reserved." However, both breeds enjoy purring contentedly, with their purrs sometimes reaching quite loud volumes.

When it comes to their temperament, both Wegies and Maine Coons are often compared to dogs. The Norwegian Forest cat is a classic lap cat that loves to socialize with its human companions, while Maine Coons are affectionate and exhibit various canine-like behaviors.

"I know several Maine Coon owners who have taught their cats to do 'high fives' or 'shake paws' like a dog would," says Cagan.

Not only are these big cats easy to train, but they also have a charming habit of carrying their toys around like enthusiastic terriers. "Many Maine Coons even play fetch," Cagan adds. Additionally, she points out that several owners have taught their Maine Coons to walk on a leash. "One of mine loves walking on his leash, while the other is not so keen on it," she shares.