Cat breed comparison
Maine Coon vs Bengal
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Maine Coon | Bengal |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Weight | 12 to 18 lbs | 6 to 12 lbs |
| Life span | 12 to 15 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Lap cat | Yes | No |
| Hypoallergenic | No | Yes |
| Affection | ||
| Energy | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Vocal | ||
| Needs company | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Health issues |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Background
Where they come from.
The Maine Coon
One of the oldest North American breeds, from Maine, where it was a working farm and ship's cat. It is the official state cat of Maine.
It is one of the largest domestic cats and has tufted ears and big snowshoe paws.
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Hip dysplasia
- Spinal muscular atrophy
- Polycystic kidney disease
The Bengal
Developed in the United States by Jean Mill in the 1970s and 1980s by crossing domestic cats with the wild Asian leopard cat. Its spotted or marbled coat often has a glitter sheen.
Bengals are very active, often love water and need plenty of play and climbing space.
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA-b)
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Vocal
The Bengal is more vocal than the Maine Coon.
Energy
The Bengal has more energy than the Maine Coon.
Grooming needs
The Maine Coon needs more grooming than the Bengal.
Needs company
The Bengal needs more company than the Maine Coon.
Which to choose
Maine Coon or Bengal?
Choose the Maine Coon if…
- You prefer a quiet cat (it is quieter)
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You’re out for part of the day (it is happier alone)
Choose the Bengal if…
- You enjoy a chatty cat (it is more vocal)
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You want a cat that needs less grooming
- Someone is home most of the day (it needs more company)
Questions.
Which is easier to train, the Maine Coon or the Bengal?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Maine Coon or the Bengal?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
They shed about the same amount. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
What health problems do the Maine Coon and Bengal have?
The Maine Coon is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, spinal muscular atrophy. The Bengal is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA-b), pyruvate kinase deficiency. Both share a risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Ask any breeder for the parents' health test results.
