What is the difference between a Norwegian Forest Cat and a Ukrainian Levkoy?

The Norwegian Forest Cat is 12–16 lbs sized while the Ukrainian Levkoy is 8–12 lbs sized. They differ in size (12–16 lbs vs 8–12 lbs), lifespan (12–16 years vs 9–15 years), and care requirements.

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

Norwegian Forest Cat is generally good with kids. Ukrainian Levkoy is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Norwegian Forest Cat or Ukrainian Levkoy?

The Norwegian Forest Cat has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Ukrainian Levkoy has a lifespan of 9–15 years.

Norwegian Forest Cat vs Ukrainian Levkoy — 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 Ukrainian Levkoy

The Ukrainian Levkoy is a distinctive and very rare breed created in Ukraine in 2004 by crossing Donskoy (Don Sphynx) cats with Scottish Folds. The result is a hairless or nearly hairless cat with unique inward-folding ears that curl gently forward like a levkoy (wallflower) petal — giving the breed its name. Weighing 7–12 pounds, this medium-sized cat has an angular, dog-like face with prominent cheekbones, almond-shaped eyes, and soft, elastic, wrinkled skin that ranges from completely bald to a fine velour covering.

Temperament & Personality

Ukrainian Levkoys are gentle, social cats that form strong attachments to their families and enjoy being handled and cuddled. They are intelligent and playful without being hyperactive, content to alternate between interactive play sessions and long naps in warm spots. Friendly with children and other pets, they are adaptable and easygoing in most household environments.

Pros

Truly unique appearance — no other breed combines hairlessness with folded ears
Gentle, friendly temperament that adapts to most living situations
Intelligent and moderately active — good balance of play and relaxation
Social and tolerant — gets along with children, dogs, and other cats

Cons

Hairless skin needs regular bathing and protection from sun and cold
Not widely recognized — TICA and CFA do not currently accept the breed
Extremely rare outside Eastern Europe — nearly impossible to find for adoption
Potential for joint and cartilage issues inherited from the Scottish Fold parent

Intrigued by this rare Ukrainian beauty? Watch Puplister for Ukrainian Levkoy listings — a truly one-of-a-kind feline awaits.

Norwegian Forest Cat vs Ukrainian Levkoy