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Differences Between Maine Coon Cats And Norwegian Forest Cats

by Victoria
written by Victoria

There are tons of cat breeds out there, with many identical traits. Two kitties that have many cat lovers confused are the Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest Cat. These cats share so many characteristics that even kitty researchers are curious about their genetic affiliation. But, there’s no doubt these two cats are breeds of their own.

(**In this article for the side by side comparisons, the Maine Coon cats are on the left, with the Norwegian Forest cats on the right**)

Let’s Discover all the Differences Between Maine Coon Cats And Norwegian Forest Cats!

These two cats come from two different places…

The names of these two kitties pretty much give away one big difference – that these cats come from two diverse places! The Norwegian Forest Cat comes from, you guessed it, Norway. What is even more fascinating about this breed is that it has origins dating back to the Vikings. The Norwegian most likely arrived from the Middle East by way of Viking ships, being a reliable mouser during these long voyages.

Maine Coon cats were discovered by farmers in Maine during the 19th century. One thing we know for certain is that these cats didn’t originate in Maine. The breed’s unknown beginnings have many wondering if it evolved from another breed that arrived by ship with the European settlers. It all still remains quite the mystery.

differences between maine coon cats and norwegian forest cats

The Norwegian and Maine Coon have unique faces

When it comes to identifying the differences between Maine Coon Cats and Norwegian Forest Cats, you must look closely at their faces. First off, these cats actually have two differently shaped heads. The Norwegian Forest Cat has a more narrow-shaped head, while the Maine Coon has a distinctively wider triangle-shaped head.

These kitties also have their own eye shapes too. The Norwegian cat always looks alert, with its alluring almond-shaped eyes that are gently slanted.

The Maine Coon cat, on the other hand, has clearly oval-shaped eyes. But, when a Maine Coon has its eyes on something, its eyes can appear super round and just as alert as a Norwegian’s.

And, their bodies are quite different too

There’s no doubt that these two cats are both big and fluffy cats. They both have semi-long fur that makes them appear extra cuddly. Yet, the Maine Coon is a bigger cat, weighing around 2 to 6 pounds more on average than a Norwegian Forest Cat.

Despite being bigger in size, the Maine Coon has much more elegant fur, that is soft and sleek. The Norwegian Forest Cat has much more dense fur, the kind that would help any kitty live in the forest! What’s super cute is that the Norwegian Forest Cat must have a mane, making it look more like a little lion.

When it comes to fur color, these two cats can definitely share some of the same color variations, like cream, black, or even blue. The Norwegian Forest Cat has much more color patterns than the Maine Coon. You can find red or amber Norwegians too!

Norwegian Forest Cat kittens

Norwegians live a little longer than Maine Coons

The Norwegian Forest Cat has an impressive life span of 14 to 16 years, whereas Maine Coons only lives an average of 11 years.

Norwegian Forest Cats are hyper independent, whereas Maine Coons need lots of love

Observing these two cats’ social behavior will show you just have diverse these two kitties are.

The Norwegian Forest cats march to the beat of their own drum. They aren’t interested in doing anything humans do, and would much rather entertain themselves.

Maine Coons are quite the opposite. They’re loyal and lovable, and never shy to ask for attention. You can totally cuddle up with your Maine Coon. But, don’t really bother with the Norwegians. These cats will come to you!

Maine Coon cat meowing

Maine Coons are chattier than Norwegian Forest Cats

If there’s one thing for sure, it’s that Maine Coon cats love to talk. They’re always finding a way to express themselves. The funniest part is that Maine Coons don’t really meow. They prefer to make trilling or chirping noises to communicate their needs. As we know, Maine Coons love being around their humans and don’t like to be ignored.

Norwegian Forest cats don’t meow, or make any noises at all really. Maybe it’s because of their history of forest-dwelling, always on the hunting prowl. Either way, many adore Norwegians for this very reason. They really don’t like to bug anybody.

As you can see, there are many differences between Main Coon Cats and Norwegian Forest cats. Each cat has its own personality, look, and way of life.

Was there a difference we missed? We’d love to hear all your thoughts on the Norwegian Forest Cat and Maine Coon, two very unique kitties!

differences between maine coon cats and norwegian forest cats

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CatsCelebrity CatsRescue stories

Meet Valentino: A Cat Plucked From A Shelter Who Was Born To Shine

by Modi Ramos
written by Modi Ramos

As the proud owner of a rescue kitty with majestic Maine Coon fluff, I often get asked by cat lovers where I “bought” my cat. And oftentimes when I tell people I rescued him, they look at me in disbelief. Perhaps people don’t realize just how beautiful and pedigree-esque many shelter cats can actually be! For Valentino, he’s living proof of just how beautiful shelter cats can be. And his devoted human even found him by chance. After a date with a man was abruptly cancelled, she realized she needed a man in her life who would be there for her no matter what. And, the purrfect man for her? Well, a male cat, of course!

Everyone, Meet Valentino—AKA Valentino Vogues as he’s known in the cat world!

Born on March 4, 2019, this pretty kitty found his way into his leading lady’s life when he was two months of age. (He was even part of the “Clear the Shelters” event with an extremely low adoption fee of $25!) Since coming into her life, Valentino has moved up the ranks in the cat model world by simply being himself. And his cat mom, as well as his cat grandma, love to share his photos with the world for others to enjoy—myself included! Keep reading to learn how this strapping kitty left the lonely shelter life behind and is well on his way to cat superstardom.

1. How did Valentino come into your life?

I was supposed to go out on a date and they called and cancelled. I had been wanting a kitten, and that was the day I decided I wanted a “man” in my life who would always be there. So, I went to our local animal shelter and selected Valentino. He was originally named Chad, but my degree is in Fashion Marketing so he needed to have a designer’s name.

2. Have you done a cat DNA test on him? (I’m wondering if he’s a Norwegian Forest Cat!)

I did have a DNA test run on him. I also thought we would get Norwegian Forest cat since he is fairly good sized, but he’s a basic Western Kitty.

How could you not fall head over heels for this face?!

3. What is his personality like?

He plays as hard as he snuggles. He loves having people over. He’s a bit mischievous. I never know what I will find moved around my apartment or in his water bowl.

4. Does Valentino have any cat housemates?

In my apartment he’s an only kitty, but most weekends we drive to my parent’s house and he hangs out with my childhood kitties – Tink (when I was in my TinkerBell phase), Bella (when I was in my Twilight phase) and McQueen (when I decided fashion was my calling – named after Alexander McQueen).

Tink, Bella, and Valentino

5. What’s something special you’d like people to know about Valentino?

He’s known for his love of Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies. I’ve come home to open boxes on the floor. He prefers them to his own treats. Another interesting thing is I swore I would never put him in bandanas and now he models for 3 bandana companies. Never say never. 🤣

Can’t get enough of this purrfectly fluffy and handsome feline? Keep up with him here on Instagram to see more of his adorableness! I’d also like to give a special “thank you” to his owner, Madison, for allowing me to share his images and story with all of the Cattitude Daily readers.

All Images Courtesy of Valentine Vogues on Instagram

Crazy about fluffy cats? Check out my video from the Cattitude Daily YouTube channel to learn all about the fluffiest felines of the cat world!

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Cat BreedsCats

Five Of The Largest Cat Breeds

by Amber
written by Amber

While the average domestic cat stands between 9 and 10 inches tall and weighs about 10 pounds, there are some cat breeds that stand out thanks to their size. These massive members of the cat world are typically gentle giants that are favorites among cat lovers. They’re bigger than most small dog breeds and aren’t afraid to let their bulk take up the whole bed. These big cats give us even more feline fur to love on, and it’s time we highlighted exactly what makes them special.

Here’s a list of the largest cat breeds that would love to be part of your life.

Maine Coon

biggest cat breeds

These New England natives are the giants of the domestic cat world. Weighing in at an impressive 20+ pounds, these big cats make other adult felines look like little kittens. Part of their bulk is definitely thanks to their luxurious-looking fluff, but they’re also built to be naturally longer and heavier than most cat breeds.

In fact, many Maine Coon cats hold Guinness Book World Records for their size. A Maine Coon named Barivel currently holds the title as the “Longest Cat in the World.” Their average height is typically between 10 and 16 inches, and regards to weight, a Maine Coon cat could weigh up to 25 pounds and still be perfectly healthy.

Learn more about Maine Coon cats here!

Norwegian Forest Cat

When it comes to largest cat breeds, don’t get a Maine Coon confused with a Norwegian Forest cat. These two big cat breeds have similar looks thanks to their big bodies and long fur. But while the Maine Coon is the official cat breed of Maine, the Norwegian Forest cat, or “Wedgie” as they’re affectionately called, has a thrilling history alongside Vikings. It’s believed that the breed first arrived in the United States with Lief Erickson himself.

Thanks to thousands of years of natural selection, the Wedgie is a sturdy, powerful cat that can survive harsh winters. Their beautiful fur coat looks good, and it also serves an important purpose. It keeps them warm even in thick snow, and there are still pockets of free-roaming cats that live happily on their own in Scandinavian forests. They’re perfectly capable of surviving on their own, and even look a little wild, but these big cats are 100% domesticated and have no wild or hybrid DNA in their lineage.

Savannah

biggest cat breeds

While the Norwegian Forest cat gets its bulk mostly through natural selection, the Savannah cat has had help from a wild cat cousin. This large cat breed is a cross between a domestic cat and an African cat called a Serval. Medium-sized with large ears, there’s no doubt that Servals are cute. They are, however, wild animals. They should never be subjected to life as a house cat. Forcing a wild animal to act domesticated is cruel, and it usually leads to dangerous situations.

Most of today’s Savannah cats are several generations separated from their wild ancestors. They stand 10-17 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 12 to 25 pounds. Their wild heritage gives them a uniquely black spotted coat pattern, and they have large, rounded ears and impressively long legs.

Ragdoll

Lauded in many circles as one of the most beautiful cat breeds around, Ragdoll cats are gentle giants with stunningly fluffy coats. Their fluff assuredly adds to their size, but even without all that hair, an adult male Ragdoll can weigh up to 20 pounds. The females are typically smaller, but at 15 pounds, they’re still considered one of the largest cat breeds.

One of the most interesting facts about the Ragdoll is how they earn their name. They’re especially friendly and affectionate, and they literally collapse into the arms of their favorite people. They end up acting like limp rag dolls, and this endearing behavior has stolen many hearts around the world.

Learn more about Ragdoll cats here!

Chausie

The last cat on this list of largest cat breeds is one you might not have heard of before. The Chausie looks exotic with its large eyes and big ears. Those features come from a distant jungle cat ancestor that was originally used to develop the breed. Records show they date all the way back to the ancient Egyptians. They weren’t recognized by The International Cat Association, however, until 1995.

Today’s Chausies are still classified as a non-domestic hybrid breed, even though they’re mostly descended from domestic cats. They weigh between 15 and 20 pounds and can stand up to 18 inches tall. Their long, slender bodies and large ears make them look like they belong in the wild, but most Chausies are affectionate and loyal toward people.

*Honorable mentions include the Siberian, American Bobtail Cat, Ragamuffin, and Bengal.

Learn anything new about these large cat breeds? Share this article with your fellow cat lovers!

And now that you’ve learned all about the largest cat breeds, check out this article on Cattitude Daily to learn all about which cat breeds are known for their clingy nature.

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Cat BreedsCat Facts

Five Cat Breeds That Love Water

by Modi Ramos
written by Modi Ramos

Cats are all individuals, but there are a certain breeds that can share similar traits. Many people think that cats don’t like water, but such is not always the case. Did you know that there are a few cat breeds that love water? It might come as a surprise to some people, but for anyone who has ever owned one of these cat breeds, they can vouch for them.

Check out my list of five cat breeds that love water…

cat breeds that love water

Maine Coon

I have a Maine Coon mix that isn’t super crazy about water, but there are many Maine Coon cats that are actually quite fond of it. The Maine Coon comes in on my list of cat breeds that love water because many of these cats are simply fascinated with H2O.

But for anyone who has ever owned a Maine Coon cat, then you know these loveable big cats simply do as they please. A Maine Coon is a naturally curious breed of cat, and they like to investigate things that trigger their hardwired sense of intense curiosity. They are the largest breed of cat that there is, and they retain a kitten like playfulness throughout much of their life. Which makes sense when you think about it, as these large felines don’t fully mature until roughly three years of age.

These cats are fascinated with the world around them, and they enjoy engaging with things that catch their interest. And water? That’s certainly a thing of interest on their priority list!

Want to learn more about Maine Coon cats? Check out an article on them here on cattitudedaily.com. 

cat breeds that love water

Norwegian Forest Cat

These Viking cats might be drawn to water because it’s simply been a way of life for them since they were first bred. The Norwegian Forest Cat, AKA Viking Cat, would sail the high seas back in the time of the Vikings to help cull the rat population while out at sea. In addition to this, they were thought to be good luck charms that Vikings believed would grant them safe passage during their travels.

The Norwegian Forest cat has survived for centuries in the harsh Scandinavian climate. These cats are quite large, but they are agile and quick on their feet. And that long and lustrous coat of theirs? Well, it’s actually waterproof, too. The water repealing feature of their coat comes in handy when they are hunting in streams trying to score their daily catch of fresh fish. If you consider getting one of these large and lovely cats, you might want to second guess that should you also have a fishtank in your home…just saying.

Want to learn more about Norwegian Forest cats? Check out an article on them here on cattitudedaily.com. 

By Daly69 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

Turkish Angora

If you’ve ever owned a Turkish Angora cat, then you know just how much these cats love water. The Turkish Angora isn’t afraid to go for a swim either, despite that flowy fur of theirs. These graceful and silky felines are drawn to water and will come running at the sound of it. The national cat breed of Turkey, this ancient cat breed is fun, free-spirited, and loves to frolic in water often.

These playful cats are also highly intelligent, so if they observe their owner turning on the sink, they will often teach themselves how to do it, too. Cats love everything at peak freshness, and a Turkish Angora is no different. The only difference is, constant running water might give way to a hefty water bill and a cat that has no remorse for it.

For those Turkish Angora cat owners, there are many times that their cats will even join them for a swim in a swimming pool. These cats are natural swimmers, with long, lean, and muscular bodies that propel them with ease throughout the water. 

cat breeds that love water

Bengal

The bengal is an interesting cat in so many ways. Not only are they wicked smart and super vocal, but they love water, too. These mini tigers are drawn to it like laser beams sucking them right in. And they’re particularly fond of running water from the faucet. These kitties don’t mind getting their paws wet or even having a good romp in shallow water. Which is why many will hop right in the bath or shower.

When it comes to their water bowls, don’t be surprised if they’re quick to make a mess. These cats are driven by their insatiable love of play, and water just gives them something more to play with…or in. 

Want to learn more about Bengal cats? Check out an article on them here on cattitudedaily.com. 

cat breeds that love water

Turkish Van

Not only do these cats look cool, but they are super cool, too. These white ring-tailed cats with plumed tails are known by many for their affinity for water. And because of their love of swimming, they top many lists—mine included—of cat breeds that love water. The explanation for their love of water is not completely known. But some suggest they developed a fondness for it when swimming for fish in Lake Van located in far east Turkey.

This beautiful and ancient breed of cat are nicknamed “swimming cats” and it’s easy to see why if you’ve ever seen one in action. But what’s most interesting about these cats and their love of water is that they are genetically designed to be excellent swimmers. They are larger bodied cats with broad shoulders, and they’re top heavy which pushes their center of gravity forward. Which, you guessed it, makes them like the Michael Phelps of cats. These athletic cats have lots of energy, and swimming is the perfect way for them to pass the time in a way they naturally love. Because if they’re stuck indoors and boredom hits, they’ll be sure to climb and act crazy and send your valuables flying.

cat breeds that love water

Honorable mentions include the: Manx, Abyssinian, American Bobtail, Japanese Bobtail, and the Sphynx.

Did you learn anything new and interesting about our feline friends? Share this article with other cat lovers you know so they can learn something, too.

Want to learn which cat breeds are thought to be the smartest of all? Read about them here on cattitudedaily.com.

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aslan the forest cat
Cat FactsCelebrity Cats

Meet Aslan The Forest Cat: A Wedgie Kitty With A Love For The Great Outdoors

by Modi Ramos
written by Modi Ramos

If you’ve never seen one of these gorgeous cats in person, then you must. Much like the Maine Coon cats of the United States, Norwegian Forest Cats are gorgeous large-bodied felines with majestic coats that are just begging to be pet. Norwegian Forest Cats—AKA Wedgies—are known as Viking cats and they’ve earned this title well. These cats are built for the frigid climate of Scandinavia, and have survived generation after generation in the wild due to their superior hunting abilities and waterproof thick coat. Aslan the Forest Cat is a true Viking cat. He is strong, brave, bold, and oh-so-fluffy!

Together with his humans, he goes on supervised mini adventures in the forests of Sweden. His images are stunning, and look like something straight out of a feline fairytale.

Aslan the forest cat

aslan the forest cat

His bio on social media reads that he’s “King of the Forest” and after looking at his stunning shots, I’d have to agree! Aslan, you wear that crown, my man!

Aslan the forest cat

aslan the forest cat

Aslan marveling the beauty of the Swedish sky…

aslan the forest cat

Aslan the forest cat

As you can see, Aslan the Forest Cat is also a fan of the snow…

Aslan the forest cat

Aslan the forest cat

And look at this little throwback of a wee Aslan kitten…those eyes!

Aslan the forest cat

As you can see, Aslan’s not always frolicking around in the forest. Sometimes he likes to put on his charm at home for the camera, too…

Aslan the forest cat

Aslan the cat

Can’t get enough of Aslan the Forest Cat? Find him here on Instagram and follow his feline adventures.

And if you love Norwegian Forest Cats or simply want to learn more about them, check out my article dedicated to these Viking cats.

Viking Cats Norwegian Forest Cats

All Images Courtesy of Aslan the Forest Cat on Instagram

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Cat Breeds

Feline 411: All About Norwegian Forest Cats

by Modi Ramos
written by Modi Ramos

While we know that Maine Coon cats are big, bold, and fluffy, there’s another cat breed in the feline world that’s just as mighty. So much so, that they were said to be the cats of the Vikings! Who are we talking about? Norwegian Forest Cats!

From those fluffy bodies and tails to the big paws and wedge-shaped heads, the Norwegian Forest Cat, AKA “Wedgies”, are beloved by many cat lovers around the world. Here I’ll cover some fun and interesting facts about the breed so you can add it to your budding index of feline knowledge. Enjoy, cat lovers!

Norwegian Forest Cat

Norwegian Forest Cats: The Official Cat of Norway

In case you’ve ever picked up a history book or caught an episode of History Channel’s hit show Vikings, then surely you know just how fearless, brave, and strong the Vikings once were. For Wedgies, these cats are natural athletes and hold the crown as the official cat of their namesake. (So, if you ever happen to get one of these cats, Ragnar or Lagertha is certainly a suitable name for your Viking cat!) It’s believed that this beautiful breed first arrived on the East Coast of the United States with Lief Erickson or his contemporaries.

Fun Wedgie history fact: the late King Olav V of Norway is the one responsible for anointing the Norwegian Forest Cat as the National Cat of Norway. 

The Cat Fanciers’ Association details that “these cats have developed over thousands of years of natural selection into a breed able to survive the long harsh winters of Norway.” That long, luxurious coat of theirs serves a definite purpose, and if not for its durability, as well as their superior hunting skills, the Norwegian Forest Cat we know today would be nonexistent. Even today, there are still some free-roaming Wedgies roaming the forests and farms of Scandinavia. These cats were born to survive the elements—and it shows!

Norwegian Forest Cat

Forest Cats of Legend

This breed of cat is naturally occurring, and despite their striking appearance that sometimes resembles that of a wild cat species, they do not have any wild or hybrid DNA in their lineage. It is estimated that Norwegian Forest Cats probably arrived in “Norway from Europe, descendants of domestic cats introduced to northern Europe by the Romans.” Norse mythology makes mention of many longhaired, large breeds of cats, and these “Forest Cats” are often prevalent in many ancient Norse legends and stories.

Across all of Scandinavia, the Norwegian Forest cat plays into much of the culture, history, and legends. While their true origin remains a mystery, it is believed by many that these cats were brought by the Vikings. And these cats didn’t simply sit around and look pretty. The Forest Cats were brought on the ships for their natural athleticism which made them skilled rat catchers. As we know, rats can often carry infectious disease, so these working cats served their leaders well.

Norwegian Forest Cat name fact: In Norway, this national kitty is known as the Skogkatt, which literally translates to Forest Cat in Norwegian.

Norwegian Forest Cat

The Difference is in the Head Shape

Many of us are familiar with the Maine Coon, but oftentimes Norwegian Forest Cats are easily confused with this other breed of large cat. Yes, both have large bodies and long, fluffy coats, but with the Norwegian Forest Cat, their heads are less blocky and more triangular shaped. For Wedgies, their heads are a true equilateral triangle where all sides are equal when measured. A Wedgie will also have a nose slant and their eyes are often slanted as well. The Maine Coon appears more lion-like with broader features as shown below.

Norwegian Forest Cat, left, Maine Coon Cat, right

Two cats in one: The coat of the Wedgie differs greatly depending on the season. In the winter, their thick, dense double coats are full and fluffy. In the summer months, they lose much of that cold-weather protection to reveal a much shorter coat. But you might be surprised to know that although they have majestic fluff for days, their coat care is relatively low maintenance in comparison to other long-haired cat breeds like the Persian.

The Wedgie is a hardy breed of cat. In addition to their thick double coat, their long ear furnishings serve to protect their ears from the chilly temperatures. And that glorious coat of theirs is even equipped with water-resistant guard hairs that deflect moisture to keep them nice and warm.

Norwegian Forest Cat

A Heart as Big as Their Size

Don’t let their impressive history or athleticism fool you, these big kitties enjoy being around people, and are as social as they are intelligent. Many owners of Wedgies report that their feline friends are loyal, affectionate, and playful. These kitties very much enjoy a good climb, so a climbing perch is essential to keep them truly happy around the home. The Wedgie loves to perch themselves high to observe their world below—even if it’s just the comfort of their own living room!

Aslan the Forest Cat

Want to check out a super cool Norwegian Forest Cat on Instagram? Aslan the Wedgie cat is super gorgeous and you’ll love all the breathtaking images of him exploring the great outdoors of Sweden!

Do you have a Norwegian Forest Cat in your life? Share with us in the comments section!

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