Havana Brown vs Norwegian Forest Cat
Discover the differences between Havana Brown and Norwegian Forest Cat to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Havana Brown
Striking green eyes and a rich chocolate-brown coat set this affectionate, curious cat apart. Loyal and social, Havana Browns thrive on companionship and interactive play.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Majestic and affectionate, this sturdy cat charms with a thick, water-resistant coat and a gentle, playful spirit. Adaptable and loyal, it thrives in active households and quiet homes alike.
Quick comparison
Medium
3.5–5.5 kg
Shorthaired, smooth
10–15 years
2.5–4.5 kg
Moderately active
Large
5–9 kg
Longhaired, water-repellent
12–16 years
3.5–7 kg
Moderately active
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Havana Brown
Enjoys companionship, forms strong bonds with people
Learns routines and solves simple problems quickly
Moderate activity, enjoys both play and rest
Likes interactive toys and playful engagement
Adjusts to change but prefers familiar routines
Norwegian Forest Cat
Enjoys human company, gentle with children
Learns routines and new environments quickly
Moderate activity, enjoys climbing and exploring
Likes interactive games and toys
Adjusts well to home changes and new people
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Havana Brown
Upper respiratory issues, gingivitis
Norwegian Forest Cat
Glycogen storage disease IV, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Havana Brown
Easy to manage
Affectionate and social, Havana Browns adapt well to new cat owners.
Highly suitable
Compact size and moderate activity level suit apartment environments well.
Good match
Enjoys interactive play and can keep up with active households.
Kid friendly
Gentle and tolerant, but supervision is recommended with very young children.
Usually compatible
Gets along with other pets when properly introduced and socialized.
Not ideal
Dislikes long periods alone and may develop separation anxiety if left unattended.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Good option
Gentle and adaptable, but benefits from owners willing to learn grooming needs
Works with effort
Can adapt to apartments if provided climbing spaces and stimulation
Highly suitable
Enjoys play and activity, fitting well in energetic homes
Very friendly
Patient and gentle, generally tolerant of respectful children
Good companion
Gets along with other pets if introduced properly and given space
Not ideal
Dislikes long periods alone and may develop stress or boredom
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Havana Brown
- Affectionate with family members
- Playful and interactive nature
- Intelligent and quick to learn
- Low-shedding, easy-care coat
- Generally good with other pets
Norwegian Forest Cat
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Affectionate without being overly demanding
- Strong climbers with agile movement
- Thick double coat protects in cold climates
- Generally healthy with few genetic issues
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Havana Brown
- Prone to separation anxiety
- Sensitive to changes in routine
- Needs regular mental stimulation
- Can be vocal and demanding
- Susceptible to respiratory issues
Norwegian Forest Cat
- Requires regular grooming to prevent mats
- Prone to obesity if under-exercised
- Can be shy with strangers initially
- High prey drive may affect small pets
- Needs mental stimulation to prevent boredom
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