Norwegian Forest Cat
Also known as: Wegie, Norsk Skogkatt
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a large, powerful and striking breed built to survive Scandinavian winters. Their thick, waterproof double coat, tufted paws and lynx-like ear tips give them a wild, majestic appearance. Despite their independent nature, they are gentle and enjoy human company on their own terms.
About
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a large, powerful and striking breed built to survive Scandinavian winters. Their thick, waterproof double coat, tufted paws and lynx-like ear tips give them a wild, majestic appearance. Despite their independent nature, they are gentle and enjoy human company on their own terms.
History
The Norwegian Forest Cat is the national cat of Norway, appearing in Norse mythology as the favourite pet of Freya, the goddess of love. They were first recognised as a breed in Norway in 1930 but it wasn't until 1977 that they were accepted by the European cat fancy. They reached Australia in the 1990s.
Care & Health
HCM and glycogen storage disease are the primary genetic concerns. Choose breeders who health-test. The thick coat is surprisingly low-maintenance outside of spring when a daily brush is needed to manage shedding. These cats are climbers — provide tall cat trees.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- Norway
- Life Span
- 12–16 years
- Size
- large
- Hair Shed
- heavy
- Grooming
- Twice a week
- Good with Kids
- high
- Feeding Cost
- $15–$20 p/w
- Colours
- Almost all colours and patterns. Dense, waterproof double coat.
Health Considerations
Grooming
Dense double coat is surprisingly tangle-resistant. Brush twice a week; daily during spring shedding.
Related Resources
Similar Breeds
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is the gentle giant of the cat world — one of the largest domestic breeds, with tufted ears, a ruff around the neck and a magnificent bushy tail. Despite their imposing size, they are playful, gentle and sociable. Often described as "the dog of the cat world".
Ragdoll
Named for their tendency to go limp with relaxation when held, the Ragdoll is one of the largest and most docile domestic cat breeds. Affectionate, gentle and almost dog-like in their devotion, Ragdolls follow their owners through the house, greet them at the door and are content to be carried around.