Should you go for a Norwegian forest cat or a Maine coon? This may very well be one of the toughest decisions ever.
They are both wonderful creatures but which should you go for? Since they are quite similar; both being large cats with beautiful silky coats and sharing some similar traits, choosing may be hard.
Therefore, when posed with this tough choice, the best thing to do is to properly compare both breeds and consider which one has features that best suits your needs.
Luckily, we are here to help you with your decision-making. In this article, we will be comparing a Norwegian Forest cat, also called a Wegie, with a Maine coon. At the end of this article, we hope you will be well equipped with enough knowledge to make an informed decision.
Appearance
When appearance is considered, both breeds share certain similarities. However, they both have distinct features that distinguish one from the other. Let us consider the following features in their appearance…
1. Weight and Size
Both breeds are considered large breeds, and in both, males typically tend to be larger than females.
That being said, their weight and size would not be a great feature to make a comparison between them since they are both big cats. A wegie can weigh about 16lbs while a Maine coon can grow up to about 18lbs.
2. Color
Maine Coons can have colors ranging from white, cream, blue, and black. Wegies on the flip side have more variations in color and can be amber, cream, black, blue, white, and even red.
3. Coats
Both breeds’ coats can be described as semi-long. Their coats are shaggy and thick. However, since they aren’t that long, grooming them isn’t quite as demanding as grooming a long-haired cat is.
4. Structure and Shape
A Maine’s muzzle is distinctively wide and “lion-like”, whereas, a wegie’s face is shaped much like every other regular cat. They have heads shaped like a triangle, slanting eyes, straight noses, and flat foreheads.
The ear tufts of both breeds are quite distinct. However, a Maine’s ear tuft is different from that of a Norwegian since it is quite larger. Yet, both have fur sticking out of their ear tips. This often gives them a lynx cat appearance. You can visit https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/lynx-and-bobcat to find out more about lynx cats.
Their tails are also quite different as that of a Norwegian is fluffier, wider, and is as long as the cat’s body (if you measure the body from the tail base down to the shoulder). But that of a Maine is bushier.
Personality
Vocal
Coons are known to be very chatty and vocal but a wegie can be quiet and calm. However, some Norwegian owners claim that their pets can purr quite loud sometimes.
Sociability
When it comes to socializing, both breeds are amazing. They are affectionate, friendly, and fit in perfectly as family pets. Both are also quite active and would not appreciate being kept indoors for too long. However, if you wish to make them stay indoors, you will need to make the environment as entertaining as possible.
Companionship and Loyalty
Coons are quite affectionate and loyal. They would run to wait by the door once they hear you turning the keys at the other end, or lay on your laps in a ball while you watch TV. They love being pampered and would stay loyal.
On the flip side, a Norwegian isn’t as loyal. They aren’t also as clingy, so if attention isn’t given to them, they would not mind turning their attention to something else.
Intelligence
Both cat breeds are quite intelligent and easy to train. Owners of both breeds often describe their pets as being dog-like since they seek and enjoy people’s company. They are also playful in their ways but wegies have strong claws so they enjoy climbing.
Territorial Behavior
Both breeds can be territorial as they both are dominating in nature. If you think you may want another pet down the line, then you may need to reconsider your choice of either of these.
Health
Cats are susceptible to heart diseases and our star guys aren’t left out. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is a disease common to felines, read this article to learn more about this disease. So, ensure the parents of the kitten you buy have been diagnosed Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy free.
Both are also susceptible to an illness that is more common in dogs known as Hip Dysplasia. This may be due to their large size.
Another disease they are prone to is Polycystic Kidney. This disease progressively destroys affected animals’ kidneys.
Diseases Associated With Norwegian Forest Cats
Apart from the diseases mentioned above, a Wegie is prone to the following:
- Retinal Dysplasia: This affects the eyes and causes spots in the animal’s retina. However, vision is not usually affected.
- Glycogen Storage Disease IV: This condition is rare and affects the animal’s glucose metabolism. Kittens with the condition may be stillborn or die within hours of birth. However, sometimes, a kitten won’t show any sign of the condition until it gets to 5 months. After this time, they would die in a matter of minutes. Luckily, you can find out carriers of the condition with DNA tests.
Diseases Associated With Maine Coons
Apart from the diseases mentioned above, a Maine Coon is prone to:
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy: This is a condition that affects both the trunks and limbs’ skeletal muscles. Luckily, carriers and affected kittens can be identified with a test.
Conclusion
We believe this article has helped you decide which cat breed will best suit you.
