Selkirk Rex vs Norwegian Forest Cat
Discover the differences between Selkirk Rex and Norwegian Forest Cat to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Selkirk Rex
Curly-coated and affectionate, this playful breed brings warmth and charm to any home. Selkirk Rex cats thrive on companionship and adapt well to family life.
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
4–7 kg
Plush, curly
12–15 years
3–6 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.
Selkirk Rex
Affectionate and sociable with people and pets
Learns routines and commands quickly and easily
Moderate activity, enjoys both play and rest
Enjoys interactive games and toys regularly
Adjusts well to new environments and changes
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
Selkirk Rex
Polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Norwegian Forest Cat
Glycogen storage disease IV, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Selkirk Rex
Highly suitable
Gentle and adaptable, Selkirk Rex cats are easy for newcomers to handle
Great choice
Their calm nature makes them comfortable in smaller indoor spaces
Moderately suitable
They tolerate activity but prefer a moderate, not overly busy, environment
Very friendly
Patient and tolerant, they generally do well with respectful children
Good companion
Usually sociable with other pets if introduced properly
Not ideal
They can become lonely and stressed if left alone for long periods
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
Selkirk Rex
- Affectionate with family members
- Tolerates other pets well
- Playful and social demeanor
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Distinctive curly, plush coat
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
Selkirk Rex
- Requires regular grooming for coat maintenance
- Can develop matting or tangles easily
- May be prone to obesity if inactive
- Sensitive to heat due to thick fur
- Prone to certain hereditary health 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
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience