OVERVIEW

Norwegian Forest Cats come from the land of the the midnight sun. King Olaf of Norway named this cat—known as a Weegie to her fans—the country's official breed. Built tough, these Viking kitties drove their ships to new lands—the Norsk Skogkatt (in her native Norwegian) might have even sailed with the famous explorer Leif Erickson. Could this be the Maine Coon's long lost great-great grandmother? The Maine Coon doesn't have the Norwegian Forest Cat's triangular head, but otherwise, they do look a lot alike.

This breed can grow to between 12-22 pounds and lives an average of 15-20 years.

FAST FACTS
Size: Large
Energy Level: Medium
Playfulness: Did someone say “toy?” Yes, please!
Affection Level: I looooove being with you
Vocality: I talk when necessary
Intelligence: Average
Grooming Needs: Average
Dog-Like?: I'm a cat and proud of it

BEHAVIOR & TRAINING

WHAT IS THE NORWEGIAN FOREST CAT'S PERSONALITY LIKE?

This is a sensitive, social breed. Norwegian Forest Cats are friendly and genial, and they don't mind a bustle. They get along well with children, dogs, and other cats, which makes them a natural choice for busy families.

WHAT IS NORWEGIAN FOREST CAT BEHAVIOR LIKE?

Though the might look cute and fluffy, don't forget that these kitties sailed with the Vikings. They are durable and athletic cats.

Norwegian Forest Cats don't sing or cry—they're a fairly quiet breed. Though if yours is happy about something, she'll definitely purr about it. These are moderately active cats who like being up high. Can't you just picture yours in the crow's nest of an explorer's ship?

HOW CAN I KEEP MY NORWEGIAN FOREST CAT ENTERTAINED?

Norwegian Forest Cats will thoroughly enjoy a scratching post, a high perch, and watching the Bird Channel out a window. These smarty-paws will also respond to clicker-training and might like to learn tricks. She will outsmart the heck out of a puzzle toy and may enjoy them thoroughly.

CARE & HEALTH

WHAT DO NORWEGIAN FOREST CATS LOOK LIKE AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?

Norwegian Forest Cats come in lots of colors, and their dense coats are almost weather-proof. Regal and long-haired, this breed has a long, bushy tail, which sometimes has a noticeable white tip on the end. Their vibrant green eyes and jaunty ear floof give them a distinctive look. Experts call this floof “heavily furnished ears.” Their tufted toes are padded to protect against frostbite.

Also? So. Much. Shedding. Those double coats are fluffy and thick all over, especially that magnificent ruff around their necks. Plan to brush yours several times a week to stay ahead of mats and tangles, or you might find yourself colonized by dust-kitties.

WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO NORWEGIAN FOREST CATS HAVE?

Though they are hardy, long-lived, and generally healthy, Norwegian Forest Cats are sometimes susceptible to heart disease, hip dysplasia, kidney disease, or enzyme deficiencies.

Remember that cats often hide disease symptoms! It's important to bring your furry friend in for veterinary checkups at least once a year.

IDEAL FAMILY

ARE NORWEGIAN FOREST CATS GOOD FOR PEOPLE WITH ALLERGIES?

Norwegian Forest Cats aren't among the breeds generally recommended for allergy sufferers.

Remember that no breed is 100% hypoallergenic, and any breed can aggravate allergies. If your allergies are mild, daily brushing or wipe-downs with a pet-safe wet wipe might help alleviate your reaction to your furry friend's dander.

WHAT IS MY NORWEGIAN FOREST CAT'S BEST DAY?

All this cat asks is a tall shelf to climb and a hand to be fed by—the call of her kibble and a high perch is a wild call that may not be denied. Follow this up with a quiet sleep and a sweet dream when her long day's over.

SHOULD I ADOPT A NORWEGIAN FOREST CAT?

Norwegian Forest Cats are loving but not pushy about it, and they get along well with just about everyone. This tough-as-nails breed is ready for anything and could find her Valhalla in many different households. Look, if they can survive voyages on a Viking longship, nothing your kids can come up with will surprise them very much. A Norwegian Forest Cat would be a great choice for busy families and/or novice cat owners.

Have you decided that a Norwegian Forest Cat is the purr-fect cat for you? Why not be your new best friend's hero and adopt a rescue! Be sure to check out our article on what to expect when you're adopting a dog or cat.