Maine Coon vs Siberian
Both are big, long-haired, tough cats from cold places, and both are friendly and sociable. The Maine Coon is usually bigger, while the Siberian is rounder, a strong jumper and often called dog-like.
Side by side
| Maine Coon | Siberian | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Maine, USA | Russia |
| Size | Large | Medium to large |
| Weight | Females 4 to 6 kg, males 6 to 9 kg or more | Females 4 to 6 kg, males 5 to 8.5 kg |
| Lifespan | Usually 12 to 15 years | Often 11 to 15 years |
| Coat | Long, shaggy and silky, with a ruff, tufted ears and a very bushy tail | Long, thick and water-resistant, with three layers |
| Energy | 3 out of 5 | 4 out of 5 |
| Affection | 4 out of 5 | 4 out of 5 |
| Chattiness | 3 out of 5 | 2 out of 5 |
| Grooming needed | 4 out of 5 | 4 out of 5 |
| Good with children | 5 out of 5 | 5 out of 5 |
| Good with other pets | 4 out of 5 | 5 out of 5 |
Scores are our own rough guide. Every cat is different.
The main differences
- Size: the Maine Coon is usually bigger and longer, and the Siberian is sturdy and rounder.
- Coat: the Maine Coon’s is shaggy and silky, and the Siberian’s is a thick, water-resistant triple coat.
- Personality: both are playful and good with families, though the Siberian is known as a brilliant jumper.
- Allergies: some people tolerate Siberians better, but no cat is hypoallergenic.
Choose a Maine Coon if
- You want the larger, longer cat
- You like a chirpy, chatty, gentle giant
- You have lots of room
Choose a Siberian if
- You want a rounder, athletic, dog-like cat
- You want to see how you react to a Siberian first, if you have mild allergies
- You like a jumper
Our verdict
Both are great family cats with similar grooming needs. Choose the Maine Coon for size and the Siberian for athleticism and, for some people, a better allergy fit. Ask about heart screening for both.
Read the full guides: Maine Coon and Siberian. Or see more cat breeds. This is a friendly overview, not veterinary advice.
Questions people ask
Which is bigger, a Maine Coon or a Siberian?
The Maine Coon is usually larger and longer.
Are Siberian cats better for allergies?
Some people tolerate them better, but no cat is hypoallergenic, so spend time with the cat first.
