What is the difference between a Norwegian Forest Cat and a Ocicat?

The Norwegian Forest Cat is 12–16 lbs sized while the Ocicat is 6–15 lbs sized. They differ in size (12–16 lbs vs 6–15 lbs), lifespan (12–16 years vs 12–18 years), and care requirements.

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

Norwegian Forest Cat is generally good with kids. Ocicat is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Norwegian Forest Cat or Ocicat?

The Norwegian Forest Cat has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Ocicat has a lifespan of 12–18 years.

Norwegian Forest Cat vs Ocicat — Breed Comparison

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.

About the Ocicat

The Ocicat was created entirely by accident in 1964 when a Michigan breeder crossed Siamese and Abyssinian cats, producing a spotted kitten that resembled a wild ocelot. Despite its exotic appearance, the Ocicat has no wild blood whatsoever. This muscular, athletic cat weighs 6–15 pounds and boasts a short, satiny coat covered in distinctive thumb-shaped spots arranged in a classic bull's-eye pattern, available in twelve recognized colors from tawny to lavender silver.

Temperament & Personality

Ocicats are exceptionally social, dog-like cats that greet visitors at the door, play fetch, and can be trained to walk on a leash. They are highly intelligent and demand interaction — this is not a breed that does well left alone for long hours. Their confident, outgoing nature makes them wonderful companions for active families with children and other pets.

Pros

Wild, exotic appearance without any wild cat bloodlines
Highly trainable — responds to commands, learns tricks, walks on a leash
Short coat requires minimal grooming
Confident and social with strangers, children, and other animals

Cons

Extremely high need for attention and stimulation — may develop destructive behaviors if bored
Very vocal and demanding when they want interaction
Not suited for owners who are away from home frequently
Strong prey drive — may not coexist well with small pocket pets

Want a wild look with a domestic heart? Find Ocicat cats seeking loving homes on Puplister now.

Norwegian Forest Cat vs Ocicat