What is the difference between a American Shorthair and a Norwegian Forest Cat?

The American Shorthair is 8–12 lbs sized while the Norwegian Forest Cat is 12–16 lbs sized. They differ in size (8–12 lbs vs 12–16 lbs), lifespan (15–20 years vs 12–16 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, American Shorthair or Norwegian Forest Cat?

American Shorthair is generally good with kids. Norwegian Forest Cat is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, American Shorthair or Norwegian Forest Cat?

The American Shorthair has a lifespan of 15–20 years while the Norwegian Forest Cat has a lifespan of 12–16 years.

American Shorthair vs Norwegian Forest Cat — Breed Comparison

About the American Shorthair

The American Shorthair descends from European cats brought to North America on ships like the Mayflower, where they earned their keep as skilled mousers. This medium-to-large breed weighs 8–15 pounds and boasts a powerful, well-proportioned build with a broad chest. Their dense, short coat comes in over 80 recognized colors and patterns, with the classic silver tabby being the most iconic.

Temperament & Personality

American Shorthairs are easygoing, adaptable cats that strike a perfect balance between playful and laid-back. They are patient and gentle with children, coexist peacefully with other pets, and are content to entertain themselves when the family is busy. Their calm, even temperament and low-maintenance nature have made them one of America's most popular breeds for decades.

Pros

Exceptionally healthy breed with a lifespan of 15–20 years
Low-maintenance coat that rarely mats or tangles
Independent enough to handle owners' work schedules without anxiety
Natural mouser — helps keep the home pest-free

Cons

Prone to obesity if diet and exercise are not carefully managed
Can be reserved with strangers and may take time to warm up
Not as interactive or trainable as more active breeds
Seasonal shedding can be heavy despite the short coat

Ready to welcome an American Shorthair into your home? Browse available cats for adoption on Puplister.

About the Norwegian Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest Cat — called "Skogkatt" in Norway — is a natural breed that evolved over centuries in the harsh Scandinavian wilderness. This is a large, powerfully built cat weighing 12–16 pounds (sometimes more), with a triangular head, tufted ears, and a magnificent waterproof double coat featuring a dense undercoat beneath long, glossy guard hairs. They come in nearly every color and pattern except pointed.

Temperament & Personality

Norwegian Forest Cats are gentle giants — affectionate yet independent, happy to sit near you rather than on you. They are athletic climbers who love high perches and will scale bookshelves and cat trees with ease. Patient and tolerant, they do well with children and other pets, though they tend to reserve their deepest affection for their immediate family.

Pros

Hardy, naturally evolved breed with robust overall health
Waterproof coat handles cold climates exceptionally well
Calm, patient demeanor — excellent with children and other animals
Independent enough to handle time alone without anxiety

Cons

Heavy shedding, especially during spring coat blow — requires frequent brushing
Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and glycogen storage disease type IV
Large size means higher food costs and need for sturdy, oversized furniture
Strong climbing instinct — may scale curtains, shelves, and countertops

Dreaming of a majestic, forest-born companion? Browse Norwegian Forest Cats available for adoption on Puplister and bring home a piece of Scandinavia.

American Shorthair vs Norwegian Forest Cat