Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between Norwegian Forest Cats and the Maine Coon Cats?
There is one common bond between the Norwegian Forest Cats and the Maine Coon Cat. They both evolved from domesticated cats that lived in very cold climates. They are similar, yet very different. Both are very intelligent and affectionate, being very people oriented but the Norwegian Forest Cat is more demanding of affection. In appearance the Maine Coon is a long cat with a rectangular body and a feral look, while the Norwegian Forest Cat is medium in length, more square in shape with a sweeter expression. The following is a general description of these two breeds, which is based on their standards (TICA) and is to be used as a guide only.
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Norwegian Forest Cat
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Maine Coon
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Head
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Triangular
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Wedge shaped with a square muzzle
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Profile
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Straight
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Gentle curve
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Eyes
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Almond shaped
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Large, wide open
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Ears
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Other edge of the ear follows the line of the head down to the chin, completing the triangle.
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Set high on top of the head, not more than an ears width apart
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Body
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Medium in length, square in appearance
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Long rectangular
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Legs
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Hind legs higher than the front
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Medium in length
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Tail
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Long and flowing, as long as the body
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Long and flowing, as long as the body
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Coat
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Distincivtive double coat long guard hairs covering a woolly undercoat
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Silky, shaggy, uneven coat with slight undercoat
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Ruff
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When mature a profuse ruff around the neck
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Moderate frontal ruff develops around the neck
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- How big do the Forest Cats get?
Males average 12-15 pounds while females are considerably smaller. They are fully mature when they are five years old.
- Are the cats affectionate?
Yes! These cats love attention. They get along well with other cats and dogs, as well.
- Who decides the standards?
The Cat Fanciers' Association
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