“Norwegian Forest cat vs Siberian,” you catch yourself typing these words late at night, hoping your search engine would offer you some clarity. Would your life be better with an adorable Norweigan Forest kitto? Or would you prefer the company of a Siberian mouser?
“How can anyone be sure when looking at these beautiful breeds?”, you think to yourself as you look through the pictures of scruffy, fluffy, and pawsitively enchanting kitties.
One’s beaming with energy and fun for the whole family to hang out with. Then, the other one adores cuddling and purring next to the fireplace!
When choosing the best breed for yourself, you can make SO MANY mistakes. That’s not to say that you would regret getting any of the world’s feline friends. But, there’s something heartbreaking about bringing one of them home only to realize you would’ve loved coming home to the other one, too.
That’s why it’s best to do your research before heading off to the nearest shelter or breeder (one that’s not controversial, of course). How can you be completely, irrevocably, and unequivocally certain the four-legged friend you’re getting suits your needs, your wants, or your lifestyle?
Consequently, when you’re trying to choose between a Norwegian Forest cat and a Siberian, you ought to know what you’re getting yourself into – at least before you consult with your vet friend who’s been bugging you to adopt his puppies.
As a matter of fact, most humans share the (very wrong) opinion that these two breeds are two of the same cat. Granted, Norwegian Forests and Siberians are both fluffy, friendly, and incredibly interesting, but that doesn’t mean they have no differences.
Fortunately, we’re here to help you uncover, understand, and appreciate these differences!
Norwegian Forest Cat vs Siberian: What’s the one thing that sets them apart?
“Could there ever be a pawsibility that these two cats come from the same family? Come on, they look THE SAME. They’re extremely fluffy, which makes them look pretty darn adorable. They’re hefty (not that we make a habit out of telling ladies they look overweight). And they have Bella Hadid cheekbones!”
While Siberian and Norwegian Forest cats share some similarities, you might be surprised to learn how different these frisky felines can be from each other. You don’t believe me!? Take a closer look at a picture of both of them together and then make a statement about how they’re one and the same.
That’s right, while these two mischievous monsters might look similar at first glance, they’re entirely different in terms of their physical appearance (and purrsonality, but we’ll get to that later).
First things first, the Siberian is pretty much always larger, longer, and thicker. This curious creature seems to have adapted to cold climates, which you can see from the thickness of her coat – and the fact that she’s waterproof!?
On the other hand, the Norwegian Forest cat has a completely different (and trendy, dare we say!?) look.
Colors and patterns are her second name – starting from white, black, red, silver, and golden colors, going through to solid, bicolor, calico, and tabby coat patterns. Not to mention the fact that Norwegian Forest cats sometimes show off a tuffet of hair at the top of their ears.
And, they’re from completely different countries. The Norwegian Forest cat comes from the Viking boats of Scandinavia and the Siberian comes from – you guessed it – the cold forests of Siberia.
Seems like these two mysterious mousers share an array of differences you’ve never heard of. So, take a look at some we’ve gathered for you.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Look at you Googling “Norwegian Forest cat vs Siberian,” landing straight at the doors of our website, and stumbling upon an article that answers your query head-on!
Taking it back to the beginning, the Norwegian Forest cat originally came from Norway during the times of the Vikings. Numerous legends surrounding this frisky feline suggest that she came to life without the help of humans. Nowadays, we understand that means that she didn’t breed with other cats, but…
The Norwegian Forest cat seems like a pretty big deal. And not only because she’s believed to have been one of the Norse goddess Freya’s felines that helped her with her chariots. Take a look at some of this breed’s characteristics to truly understand what the Norwegian feline is about.
1. Physical appearance
Norwegian Forest cats are bigger than you might think. These gentle giants can range anywhere from 10 to 14 inches and 12 to 18 pounds. Worry not, we’re not trying to body shame these beautiful beasts. We simply can’t get over the fact that they’re ALMOST the size of an average bobcat! How crazy is that!?
Norwegian Forest cats, or “Wegies” for short, are extremely fluffy with tuffets of hair sticking out from the top of their ears. They’re graced with the most amazing cheekbones (and they’re generally considered big-boned, athletic, and muscular). They’re not the felines to mess with, that’s for sure.
Wegies have sparkly, waterproof coats that come in an array of colors and patterns. And, they don’t shy away from showing off their (might we say “bushy”) tails. These beautiful beasts are a sight for sore eyes, both male or female.
2. Purrsonality
“Hmm, maybe I should Google “Norwegian Forest cat vs Siberian cat personality” to check whether they’re what I’m looking for…”
Norwegian Forest cats are one of the most lovable and affectionate feline breeds out there. They’re patient, friendly, and gentle – whether they’re dealing with your annoying neighbor or your friend’s regular tabby. They’re every family’s dream because they’re SO DARN ADORABLE.
And, for those of you who are sensitive to sounds, Wegies don’t really meow and purr that much. They’re pretty quiet, even though they love being the center of attention. They prefer when you’re the one calling their name rather than the other way around.
3. Health
Norwegian Forest cats need A LOT of grooming, brushing, and petting. There’s nothing surprising about that considering the fact that they’re one of the fluffiest breeds out there. They need a pampering routine that can maintain the health and beauty of their fluff.
Other than that, Wegies can’t live without an outlet for their strong hunting instincts. We’re talking about toys that mimic other animals (mainly mice) or even simple feather toys you use to get them excited and motivated to perk up their ears and hunt their “prey.”
Wegies need plenty of physical activity to stay happy and healthy. While they love lounging around the house, they need something to burn off the extra energy. Otherwise, they won’t shy away from climbing on top of your cabinets, bookshelves, and other seemingly unreachable places.
Siberian Cat
Reading up on the differences between Norwegian Forest cats and Siberians might not help you choose between the two, but should certainly help you understand the essence of each breed. Both of them carry the reputation of being among the most mysterious felines out of the bunch.
Here’s what we’ve gathered about the latter. Siberians are native to Siberia (duh!?) Granted, you’re familiar with that part of the world, so you’re aware that Siberia gets really, really cold during the winter. Siberian cats have thick, waterproof coats and muscular bodies for that reason.
Fun fact: Siberian kittens are extremely expensive because they’re difficult to stumble upon outside of Russia. They range anywhere from $1,200 to $4,000, which means they’re probably accustomed to a pretty lavish lifestyle (considering what their parents are paying for them!)
1. Physical appearance
As for their looks, Siberian cats are as beautiful as one might think (Russian models are some of the most popular in the world, right?) Similar to their Norwegian counterparts, they have a large stature, ranging anywhere from 10 to 14 inches and 12 to 20 pounds.
Other than that, Siberians are known for being very, very fluffy. Their coats are triple-layered and water-resistant because of their ancestors who came from the forests of Siberia. Their bones and muscles are heavy as a dead donkey, with many humans who got to hold them claiming they’re heavier than they look.
And, we can’t forget about the array of coat colors – ranging from solid white, black, red, blue, and silver, to smoke, point, calico, tabby, and tortoiseshell. Who wouldn’t want a tortoiseshell Siberian – as crazy person!?
2. Purrsonality
Siberian cats might not have a cute nickname like Wegies. But, they have the same addicting personality as Norweigan Forest cats. And, they have something that the Wegies don’t. Siberians mature pretty slowly, needing around five years to reach adulthood.
“What’s impressive about that?” you might be wondering. Well, they pretty much stay kittens (with their kittenish behavior) for the span of those five years. When we say “kittenish behavior” we’re mainly referring to their friendly, lovable, and energetic demeanor that gets them in trouble more times than not.
Siberians are great with everyone. They’re easily amused regardless of the person (or animal) and they’re easily persuaded to do whatever you want them to do. They are pretty quiet, and don’t make many sounds other than the occasional purr or chirp to let you know they’re ready for cuddles.
3. Health
Siberian cats need grooming, pampering, and everything else that’s typically a part of a nice spa date. You might be thinking to yourself “Where did they learn to be extravagant when they originated from the cold forests of Siberia!?” Shhh, they don’t know that.
Siberian cats aren’t purrincesses (though they might seem that way!) They’re meant to spend most of their life running outside, hunting (or at least pretending to be), and putting their animalistic instincts to test. They’re meant to lounge and swim, and lounge a little bit more.
But, that’s not to say that Siberians don’t love feeling like they’re taken care of – being fed, cleaned, and entertained. That’s not to say that they don’t need love, attention, and toys. They’re accustomed to a lifestyle packed with physical activity and that’s what you should provide them with.
Norwegian Forest cat vs Siberian cat: Who’s the winner?
“Winner, winner, chicken dinner…!” There aren’t any winners or losers, don’t you worry. We’re rooting for both Norwegian Forest and Siberian cats. Whichever you choose to complete your family with, you won’t be disappointed.
Who wouldn’t want to have a four-legged friend that’s affectionate, sweet, and charming? That’s gentle with children and HIGHLY tolerant of your annoying neighbors? That’s too big to fit on your lap but kittenish, nonetheless?
What are you waiting for, then? Muster up the courage and head off to find yourself the Norwegian forest cat of your dreams or the Siberian you haven’t been able to stop thinking about.
