Cat breed comparison
Maine Coon vs Siberian
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 | Siberian |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States | Russia |
| Weight | 12 to 18 lbs | 8 to 16 lbs |
| Life span | 12 to 15 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Lap cat | Yes | Yes |
| 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 Siberian
A natural breed from the forests of Siberia, Russia's national cat. It was recognised in the US only in the 1990s.
Some people with cat allergies report fewer symptoms around Siberians, which may relate to lower Fel d 1 levels, but no cat is allergen-free.
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Polycystic kidney disease
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Energy
The Siberian has more energy than the Maine Coon.
Grooming needs
The Maine Coon needs more grooming than the Siberian.
Needs company
The Siberian needs more company than the Maine Coon.
Health issues
The Maine Coon tends to have more health issues than the Siberian.
Which to choose
Maine Coon or Siberian?
Choose the Maine Coon if…
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You’re out for part of the day (it is happier alone)
Choose the Siberian if…
- 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)
- You want a cat that tends to have fewer health issues
Questions.
Which is easier to train, the Maine Coon or the Siberian?
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 Siberian?
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 Siberian have?
The Maine Coon is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, spinal muscular atrophy. The Siberian is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease. Both share a risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and polycystic kidney disease. Ask any breeder for the parents' health test results.
