Maine Coon vs. Norwegian Forest Cat: The Profile Test#

If you put a Maine Coon and a Norwegian Forest Cat (NFC) in a lineup, 90% of people couldn’t tell them apart. They are both “Forest Cats.” They both have long, water-repellent coats. They both have ear tufts. [cite_start]They both evolved in cold climates to hunt rodents[cite: 2567, 2568].

But to a judge—or a knowledgeable breeder—they are as different as a Bulldog and a Greyhound. The difference isn’t in the fur. It is in the Architecture of the Head.

If you are trying to identify your rescue cat, or deciding which breed to buy, here is the “Profile Test.”

1. The Profile (The Nose)#

This is the “Dead Giveaway.” Turn the cat to the side and look at the nose.

Norwegian Forest Cat: Has a Straight profile. From the brow ridge to the tip of the nose, the line is straight as a ruler. It is often described as a “Grecian” profile.
Maine Coon: Has a Concave profile. [cite_start]There is a gentle curve or “scoop” to the nose[cite: 2439]. It is not a “break” (like a Persian), but a gentle slope.

The Test: Run your finger down the cat’s nose. If it’s a ski slope, it’s a Maine Coon. If it’s a slide, it’s a Wegie.

2. The Head Shape (Triangle vs. Box)#

Look at the cat straight on.

Norwegian Forest Cat: The head is an Equilateral Triangle. [cite_start]The lines from the chin to the base of the ears form a perfect V-shape[cite: 2573]. The chin is pointed or tapered.
Maine Coon: The head is a Square. The muzzle is “boxy” and distinct from the cheekbones. The chin is broad and deep.

3. The Coat Texture#

While both are long-haired, the texture differs due to their evolution.

Norwegian Forest Cat: Has a double coat that feels slightly coarse and oily/wooly. It is designed to shed water in a damp Scandinavian forest.
Maine Coon: Has a coat that is “shaggy” and uneven. It is shorter on the shoulders and longer on the stomach (britches). [cite_start]The texture is often silkier[cite: 2439].

4. The Personality Difference#

Maine Coon: The “Clown.” Goofy, floor-dwelling, follows you like a dog.
NFC: The “Athlete.” They love heights. A Wegie will be on top of your kitchen cabinets looking down at you. They are often a bit more independent than the Velcro-like Maine Coon.

Conclusion#

They are cousins in spirit, but genetically distinct. The Maine Coon is the American Barn Cat (Rugged Box). The Norwegian Forest Cat is the Fairy Cat of the North (Elegant Triangle). Both are magnificent.

References#

Walsh, L.G. (2013). The Maine Coon Cat. Down East Books. [cite_start]“The Vikings.” [cite: 2568]
[cite_start]CFA. Norwegian Forest Cat Breed Standard. [cite: 2573]
[cite_start]CFA. Maine Coon Breed Standard. [cite: 2439]
Robinson, R. (1999). Robinson’s Genetics. [cite_start]“Breeds: Norwegian Forest Cat.” [cite: 3027]
TICA. Forest Cat Seminar: Comparing the Breeds.