Norwegian Forest Cat Breed Information

Group

Semi-long Haired

Weight

5.4-7.3 kg

Length

23-30 cm

Lifespan

14-16 years

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About the Norwegian Forest Cat

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

Originating in Northern Europe, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a gentle and friendly domestic breed that makes an excellent pet.

In this helpful guide, you can learn more about these beautiful animals. With everything from the origin of this beautiful breed to their living needs and personality, we’ve got you covered.

What Is the History & Origin of the Norwegian Forest Cat?

Originating in Northern Europe, the long-haired Norwegian Forest Cat (also known as Wegie) is believed to come from Scandinavia.

Cats from Great Britain brought over to Norway likely reproduced with feral cats, producing offspring eventually evolving into the Norwegian Forest Cat. Their sturdy build and thick coat mean that they were likely ship cats and were able to deal with the extreme weather conditions.

The Norwegian Forest Cat club was a movement devoted to the preservation of the breed, starting in Oslo in 1938. Although World War II put a temporary halt to this, the NFCC did manage to save the breed from extinction by developing official breeding programs.

NFCs even received royal recognition from King Olaf and were made the official cat of Norway!

What Is a Norwegian Forest Cat Breed?

The Norwegian Forest Cat is a breed of domestic cat that is popular in Scandinavia. It is also the 5th most popular cat in France.

Adapted to cold climates, this breed has long, waterproof hair and a thick, woolly undercoat for warmth and insulation. The NFC is a muscular and strong cat, that is fond of people and makes a great pet. They can be left at home alone as they find it easy to occupy themselves as long as they have things to climb and play with.

Who Is a Norwegian Forest Cat Best For?

Norwegian Forest Cats are extremely loveable and have very few enemies.

This breed makes an exceptional family cat as they are affectionate and gentle. They are very patient and great with children, other cats and even dogs! They will also remove themselves from situations when they have had enough of socialising.

Although this breed is affectionate, if you’re looking for a lap cat, this may not be the right one for you. They do not require constant attention and will find their own space when they want to be alone.

What Does a Norwegian Forest Cat Look Like?

With tufted ears and a triangular head, the Wegie is a larger-than-average breed that is extremely strong and muscular. They are visibly bigger and heavier than the average domestic cat. Extremely elegant and athletic, Norse legend describes their ancestors’ ability to climb sheer rock faces with ease.

Their coats can be a range of colours and are glossy and also water-resistant, with a dense thick undercoat to withstand the harsh Scandinavian climate. Their eyeshades can range from gold, copper and green or even be a mix of all three!

Typically associated with the Maine Coon in appearance, the Norwegian Forest Cat is actually smaller and much more slender. The Maine Coon also has round eyes while the NFC has almond-shaped eyes.

Coat

Norwegian Forest Cats are famous for their extremely thick, long coat and bushy tail. Their hair can vary depending on the season, shedding to a much shorter length in Summer.

Colours

This natural breed’s coat can come in various colours. This includes solid colours such as black, white, silver, cream, red and golden!

Their coats can also be bicolour, tabby and tortoiseshell.

Patterns

Their coat can come in a variety of patterns, however, they never have a pointed pattern like a Siamese cat.

Norwegian Forest Cat Grooming & Shedding

You should groom your Adult NFC around once a week. A bristle brush will work fine and a stainless steel comb is helpful for more stubborn areas.

Regular grooming is important at all ages as it allows you to check for fleas or injuries. Elderly cats and kittens should be groomed more often to ensure that their coat is free of tangles and remains clean.

The breed sheds heavily, so keep this in mind if you don’t want cat hair to take over your home. In the spring it is worst as they are preparing for summer and leaving their thick, winter coat behind. Regular and efficient grooming can help move this process along.

How Do Norwegian Forest Cats Behave? A Look at Their Temperament and Personality

The Norwegian Forest Cat is gentle and friendly and enjoys physical contact from their family, though they do not require constant attention. They may even be reserved when in front of strangers and are not the greatest lap cat.

They can be left at home alone as they can easily keep themselves busy. Letting out their athletic side, they love to climb and you’ll likely find them at the highest point in your home. They love the outdoors and their thick, waterproof coat allows them to adventure in any conditions – so if you have a pond, beware!

The Norwegian Forest Cat personality is excellent and what makes them so popular. They are smart and independent and make a loving companion for when you need it most.

Living Needs

The Norwegian Forest Cat is one of the most athletic cat breeds and will require things that allow them to let their energy out. They love to climb, so cat trees and ladder walls are great to allow your cat to survey their space.

Very playful, many toys are recommended for this cat. Specifically, toys that imitate the hunting experience such as food dispenser toys are great for exercise and to help prevent weight gain. Another great toy is one that mimics the movement of prey such as mice and rats.

The NFC loves the outdoors! Cat-proof fences are a great way to allow your furry friend some adventure time, without letting them go too far.

What Are Common Habits and Activity Levels of Norwegian Forest Cats?

Habits

As a slow maturing breed, Norwegian Forest Cat kittens can take up to 5 years to fully mature into adults, so naturally, they want to play a lot!

With history as a wilderness and farm cat, the NFC loves to explore. They have an alert nature and love to utilise their natural hunting skills.

Activity Level

This natural breed has a high activity level. They require a home that allows them to get their energy out and exercise, keeping their weight down.

Vocalness

These cats are quiet and you will likely only hear them vocalise when they need something.

What Is the Weight, Height, and Size of a Norwegian Forest Cat?

Height

The NFC can grow up to 30 cm in height, with the minimum height being around 23 cm.

Weight

According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association, the Wegie typically weighs between 5.4 and 7.3 kilograms while the average domestic cat weighs between 3.6 and 5.4 kilograms.

This is not the limit though, and a Norwegian Forest Cat can weigh up to 8.2 kilograms! Male cats of this breed often weigh more than females.

Size

Larger than the average domestic cat, the Wegie has a muscular and strong build

Are Norwegian Forest Cats Easy to Train?

The NFC is an intelligent breed and is sometimes described as dog-like!

The Wegie can be trained with positive reinforcement. Reward your cat with a treat when they do what you want them to do, but make sure to have some low calorie treats, as this breed is prone to weight gain.

Does the Norwegian Forest Cat Have Any Common Health Issues?

The Wegie is known to have a number of health issues that are quite specific to the breed and can come with age.

This breed can be prone to issues with their joints.

Hip Dysplasia

This condition affects the ball and socket joint and can lead to much more serious problems including chronic pain and the inability to walk.

Patellar Luxation

This is a condition where the knee joint can slip out of position.

The Wegie has also been found to be more prone to have a disease that affects the structure of the heart called Cardiomyopathy.

Health checks should be done in the early stages of your cat’s life if bought from a reputable breeder. However, it is important to give them regular screenings at the vets, as they move into adulthood.

What Is the Lifespan of a Norwegian Forest Cat?

The Norwegian Forest Cat typically lives between 14-16 years.

How Much Does a Norwegian Forest Cat Need to Be Fed?

The diet that your cat requires is very unique and specific to them. However, all cats are carnivores and cannot be vegetarian or vegan.

Cats need a balance of nutrients in their diet. Foods that will maintain the ‘ideal body condition’ of your Norwegian Forest Cat are important, as this cat can struggle with weight gain.

How Much Can You Expect to Pay for a Norwegian Forest Cat in Australia?

The price of a Norwegian Forest Cat in Australia will vary widely and depend on the breeder.

Most commonly, the price of this breed is somewhere between $1200 and $1500. But if you’re looking for kittens from a superior bloodline for the ‘best’ physical traits, you can expect to pay anywhere up to $5000!

Norwegian Forest Cat FAQs

Are Norwegian Forest cats related to Maine Coons?

The short answer is no. This is a common belief by many people due to the similarities in the breeds’ appearance. However, Maine Coons are actually larger and have more round eyes.

Do Norwegian Forest cats get along well with kids and other pets?

Yes! Norwegian Forest cats have a kind and patient nature, meaning that they are great with dogs and any other pets, as well as children.

Are Norwegian Forest cats hypoallergenic?

Unfortunately, no. The Wegie has a thick, double coat which can trigger allergic reactions due to excessive shedding.

Can you keep a Norwegian Forest cat indoors?

A Norwegian Forest cat can be kept as an indoor cat, as they adapt extremely well to their surroundings. However, they also love the great outdoors, so even access to a small outside area with a secure, cat-proof fence would be ideal for them.