Norwegian Forest Cats
A Legend Born

The origin of Norwegian Forest Cats is largely unknown and over the years many theories have evolved. Scandinavian countries, which include Finland, Norway, Denmark and Sweden, would not, the experts believe, have had indigenous cats. So how did this magnificent cat breed arrive in the forests of Norway?

The Viking Connection

During the Viking Age from 790 AD to 1066 AD, Viking sailors explored North Africa, the Middle East and Russia. It is believed that during their travels they adopted cats from these countries for the sole purpose of keeping their ships rat-free. On their return to their respective Scandinavian countries, the cats were allowed to roam. On land the cats protected the grain stores. The theory is that these cats, some of which could have been Turkish Angora, interbred with shorthaired cats producing the Norwegian Forest Cat. In order to survive the harsh winters, these cats evolved by developing a dense, wooly undercoat, robust, athletic bodies and powerful legs. It was a case of survival of the fittest.

In Norway the cat is called Norsk Skogkatt (Forest Cat) and in Sweden and Denmark there are similar cats called Rugkatt and Racekatte. We like to affectionately call them Wegies!

Mythology

The story of myths, legends and folklore. Norse mythology has for centuries depicted large cats that resemble the Norwegian Forest. Freya, the goddess of love and fertility had a chariot which was pulled by large cats which resemble the Norwegian Forest Cat and Thor, the god of thunder, was unable to lift this large, powerful cat.

Irrespective of how the cat arrived in Norway, we do know that it is a natural cat breed, one in which man originally played no part. We also know that it is one of the oldest cat breeds.

A Modern Chronological History

The story of the Norwegian Forest as we know it today started here:

1938 - Norwegian breeders commence with a selective breeding program

1940 - WWII interrupts the breeding program

1950 - Breeding program resumes

1975 - Formal NFC Breed Club is formed and the breed standard is set using the magnificent cat called Pan's Truls

1979 - First NFC arrives in the United States

1987 - CFA register the breed

1993 - Full Champion Status is awarded

For the latest updates regarding their Championship Status, consult the all breeds of cat governing body in your country.

For additional cat information about these domestic cats visit the links below. You will find valuable in depth information regarding their characteristics, temperament, health concerns, life expectancy and stunning cat pictures. Our breeders directory will assist you in finding a beautiful longhaired kitten.

Related Pages:

Norwegian Forest - cat facts for potential cat owners

Norwegian Forest Breeders - international cat breeder directory

Norwegian Forest Cat Picture - a gallery of stunning longhaired cat photos

Cat Picture Courtesy of:

© Theresa Fouche Photography

Sp Pr Mickle's Simba Owner/Breeder: Lesley McClur