What is the difference between a Norwegian Forest Cat and a Russian Blue?

The Norwegian Forest Cat is 12–16 lbs sized while the Russian Blue is 7–12 lbs sized. They differ in size (12–16 lbs vs 7–12 lbs), lifespan (12–16 years vs 15–20 years), and care requirements.

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

Norwegian Forest Cat is generally good with kids. Russian Blue is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Norwegian Forest Cat or Russian Blue?

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

Norwegian Forest Cat vs Russian Blue — 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 Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is a naturally occurring breed believed to have originated in the port city of Arkhangelsk (Archangel) in northern Russia, arriving in Europe aboard trade ships in the 1860s. This medium-sized cat weighs 7–12 pounds and is renowned for its dense, plush double coat of uniform blue-gray with silver-tipped guard hairs that give it a luminous shimmer. Its vivid emerald-green eyes, wedge-shaped head, and enigmatic "Mona Lisa smile" complete an unmistakably elegant look.

Temperament & Personality

Russian Blues are gentle, reserved cats that are intensely loyal to their families yet cautious around strangers. They are creatures of habit who thrive on routine — eating at the same time, playing in the same spots, and sleeping in their preferred perch. Once bonded, they are affectionate and playful, often fetching toys and entertaining themselves with quiet grace.

Pros

Produces lower levels of the Fel d 1 allergen — better tolerated by some allergy sufferers
Dense double coat is low-shedding and virtually maintenance-free
Quiet and well-mannered — rarely destructive or excessively vocal
Long-lived breed with few genetic health issues — many reach 15–20 years

Cons

Shy and reserved with strangers — may hide during gatherings or parties
Sensitive to change — can become stressed by moves, new pets, or schedule disruptions
Prone to overeating and weight gain if food is left out freely
Can be slow to warm up to new family members or housemates

Charmed by those emerald eyes and silver-tipped fur? Find Russian Blue cats ready for their forever homes on Puplister.

Norwegian Forest Cat vs Russian Blue