Norwegian Forest Cat vs Russian Blue

Verdict

Both are quiet and fairly independent, so the choice rests on size, coat and sociability. The Norwegian Forest Cat is large, heavily coated and easygoing with children and other pets, and it needs tall climbing space. The Russian Blue is medium, short-coated, shy with strangers and happy in a small flat, with a keener mind. Choose the Norwegian Forest Cat for a roomy family home and a comb. Choose the Russian Blue for a calm household with a regular routine and little grooming.

Choose the Norwegian Forest Cat if

• You have children or other pets; it scores 4 for both against 3.
• You want a large cat of 9-16 lb with a full ruff and bushy tail.
• You have tall furniture to climb and room for a big cat.
• You will comb through a heavy spring moult.

Choose the Russian Blue if

• You live in a small flat; it scores 5 for apartments against 2.
• You want light grooming; it scores 2 for grooming against 3.
• You want the cleverest of the two, with a score of 5 for intelligence.
• You keep a quiet, steady household with few visitors.

Where they are alike

Both score 4 for independence, so each copes with a workday alone, and both are quiet. Each forms a settled bond with its household and is a good fit for indoor life.