Norwegian Forest Cat
Cat Facts
The Norwegian Forest Cat is known as the official cat of Norway. This cat is known by many names - the SkauKatt, Norsk Skogkatt or affectionately called the Wegie. They are magnificent semi-longhaired cat breeds, large and fairly calm by nature. It is a cat linked to folklore and legends so do take a peek at the chapter on the origin and history of this domestic cat breed.
Features and Characteristics
This is a large robust cat, some describe it as massive. It is solidly built with well developed muscles and bones and powerful in appearance. Their bodies are moderately long and the overall appearance is well balanced. Female cats are smaller than the males. It has a long, shaggy and bushy tail which is broad at the base and tapers towards the end. The tail is carried high and the length should be equal to the body length. The legs are muscular, heavily boned and straight and the hind legs are slightly longer than the forelegs, which allows them to run and leap with great ease. The paws have long tufts of hair between the toes, acting as snowshoes - providing protection and insulation from the cold. The head is described as triangular - meaning that all sides are equal in width and length. The forehead is flat and in profile the nose is straight from the brow to the tip. The chin is strong and firm. The eyes are wide open and expressive. In terms of shape, they are almond-shaped and set at a slight upward angle on the outer edge. Whilst all eye colors are acceptable, green and gold are generally preferred. White cats can have blue, copper or odd-eyes.
Ears should be alert and arched forward, as though they are listening! They are medium to large, with rounded tips, set well apart at on the sides of the head and broad at the base. Lynx-tipped ears are desirable. The inside of the ears are heavily furnished to protect the ears from wind, cold and moisture. The Norwegian Forest Cat only reaches maturity at around 4 - 5 years, which means that they are slow to mature. Norwegian Forest Cats have a medium long (semi-longhaired) double coat. The undercoat consists of thick, dense and wooly fur, whilst the top coat consists of long, smooth, glossy guard hairs. The coat is described as uneven in that it is longer on the back and sides and shorter on the shoulders. It has a full ruff (neck, side and the frontal bib) and full britches on its hind legs. The coat is thick, smooth and water-resistant to protect the cat from extreme winter conditions. The Norwegian Forest Cat coat is thicker, fuller and denser in winter and this is when you see the true magnificence of this cat. Most colors are accepted (some registries accept all), except for Fawn, Cinnamon, Lilac (Lavender); Chocolate and ColorPoint. The coat comes in numerous spotted and tabby patterns and the pattern should be even, clear, distinct and well defined. If you are looking for a show cat, we suggest you check the all breeds of cat breed standards in your country to ensure that your cat complies with the prescribed standards in your country.
Norwegian Forest Cat Information
Would they suit a home with Children and other Pets? The Norwegian Forest cat makes a great pet for children. Younger children need to be reminded that cats prefer gentle play. They do get on well with other pets - dogs and cats. Personality and Temperament This is a hardy, robust and athletic cat and is known as a fearsome hunter. Despite its size this cat is incredibly supple and a remarkably good climber. It is also one of the few cats that enjoys water. The Wegie has an even temperament, it is a self-assured, friendly, easy-going cat. It is a reasonably calm cat, but don't be fooled, it can be very playful too. Cat owners describe them as loving and affectionate cats. They are alert and intelligent and can be trained to walk on a leash. Indoor or Outdoor Cats The Norwegian Forest cat would probably prefer an outdoor lifestyle. We do need to stress that outdoor does not mean roaming the streets of the neighborhood. The definition of outdoor is an enclosed and escape-proof garden. It can adapt to indoor living provided that you create an adventure zone for your cat to prevent boredom.
Cat Grooming and Cat Care The Norwegian Forest cat is a medium-to-high maintenance cat. The coat needs to be brushed at least once to twice a week. In Spring, the cat may shed heavily and requires additional brushing. If the dense undercoat is neglected, it will become matted so a daily brush is advisable. We have compiled some great information on cat care and cat grooming so you may want to take a quick look. Cat Health Concerns Generally a robust and healthy breed, but some lines do suffer from the following hereditary problems: - Glycogenosis which is an inherited abnormality of glucose metabolism that can cause muscle atrophy (muscle wasting) and weakness.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) which is a heart problem.
Do consider medical cat insurance for your cat. Cat Diet and Nutrition The Norwegian is a longhaired cat and as such may suffer from hairball. If possible find a special commercial cat food that reduces hairball. Take a tour of our great tips on choosing the right cat food. The Average Weight These cats may weigh between 3.0 - 9.0 kg (6.6 - 19.8 lbs) Life Expectancy The Norwegian Forest cat has a long life expectancy of 15 years.
Related Pages: Norwegian Forest Cats - myths, legends and origin of this cat breed Norwegian Forest Breeders - international cat breeder directory
Cat Pictures Courtesy of: © Theresa Fouche Photography Top and Bottom: SBeyond Betty Boop of Geedee, Black and White bi-colour Owner: Athylle Caw, Breeder: B Aberg Center: The Legends Cristal Roc, Owner: Bev Smullen Breeder: Petra Smith
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