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Compare Norwegian Forest Cat and Bombay side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.

Breed traits

Character & behavior

Energy level

Playfulness

Intelligence

Trainability

Protectiveness

Sociability

Can stay alone

Lifestyle fit

Apartment-friendly

Yes

Good with kids

Yes

Good for first-time owners

Yes

Shedding

Noise level

Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span

12–16 years

Weight

4.5–9 kg

3.6–4.5 kg

Height

30–40 cm

23–25 cm

Origin

Norway

United States

Grooming effort

Nutrition sensitivity

Health risk

Heat tolerance

Cold tolerance

The Norwegian Forest Cat and the Bombay are both unique breeds, each with their own characteristics that appeal to different types of cat owners. The Norwegian Forest Cat, originating from Norway, is known for its larger size and adaptability to cold climates. It has a playful and sociable nature, making it a good companion for families. On the other hand, the Bombay, hailing from the United States, is smaller and has a sleek, shiny coat. This breed is also highly sociable and trainable, which can be advantageous for first-time cat owners. While both breeds are good with kids and can adapt to apartment living, their energy levels and exercise needs differ, which may influence a potential owner's decision.

Norwegian Forest Cat — Advantages

- Larger size (4.5 to 9.0 kg)
- High energy level (4)
- Good for families with kids
- Excellent adaptability to cold climates
- Moderate grooming difficulty (3)

Disadvantages

- Higher exercise needs (4)
- Moderate shedding level (3)
- Can be less trainable compared to Bombay (3)

Bombay — Advantages

- Smaller size (3.6 to 4.5 kg)
- Highly trainable (4)
- Very sociable (5)
- Lower grooming difficulty (2)
- Moderate exercise needs (3)

Disadvantages

- Lower energy level (3)
- Moderate climate tolerance (3 for both hot and cold)
- Slightly less adaptability to cold climates compared to Norwegian Forest Cat