Size

The height of the Norwegian Forest Cat reaches 23-30 centimeters, and the length ranges from 30-46 centimeters.

Weight

An adult Norwegian Forest Cat weighs from 5.9 kilograms to 9.1 kilograms. The weight of these important family members varies per individual case depending on genetics, diet, and health.

Lifespan

The life expectancy of a Norwegian Forest Cat ranges from 14 to 16 years. Yet, remember, these numbers are imprecise and the lifespan of our furry friend heavily depends on their healthy lifestyle and stress-free living environment. Remember that regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet significantly improve the quality of life of our companion animal.

Fur

The long and dense fur characteristic of Norwegian Forest Cats protects the breed from harsh Scandinavian winters. The length and volume of fur change with the season and are longer and thicker in winter than in summer. Despite their fur length, Norwegian Forest Cats are fairly undemanding companions when it comes to grooming and usually only require weekly brushing.

With a gentle and friendly temperament, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a perfect example of a glorious look, intelligence, and kindness. Despite the harsh Scandinavian climate and the Viking way of life, the breed is surprisingly affectionate and sociable. They form strong bonds with people and have a positive attitude towards family relationships even during the initial days of adaptation.

Intelligent and curious Norwegian Forest Cats enjoy exploring their surroundings. Widely known for their gentle temperament, these furry friends are usually tolerant of children and other pets further supporting their reputation as excellent companions.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Monitoring your Norwegian Forest Cat’s diet is the best way to prevent weight-related health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and hip dysplasia. If fed freely, companion animals will eat more than they require, which can lead to excessive weight gain. So, feed the Norwegian Forest Cat twice a day and under no circumstances leave food in the bowl all day. It’s a wise idea to consult a nutritionist for advice on healthy eating for your important family member.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may appear both in infancy and adulthood. You will be able to effectively manage the disease by actively communicating with the veterinarian, proper exercise, and avoiding obesity.

Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency

An enzyme known as pyruvate kinase works for the companion animal’s body to produce red blood cells. Lack of pyruvate kinase manifests in hemolytic anemia and causes fatigue along with yellowing of the skin. If symptoms are detected, you will be able to determine the amount of the enzyme with the aid of a timely visit to the veterinarian and diagnostic tests.

Monitoring your Norwegian Forest Cat’s diet is the best way to prevent weight-related health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and hip dysplasia. If fed freely, companion animals will eat more than they require, which can lead to excessive weight gain. So, feed the Norwegian Forest Cat twice a day and under no circumstances leave food in the bowl all day. It’s a wise idea to consult a nutritionist for advice on healthy eating for your important family member.

Adequate water intake will reduce the risk of urinary tract problems and promote optimal kidney function. As a competent parent, remember that cats’ noses are very sensitive, and the smell of food may significantly delay their intake of water. That’s why, keep the bowl of water about 90 centimeters away from any food. To provide food and water for your furry friend, use stainless steel or ceramic bowls.

When determining the dietary needs of a Norwegian Forest Cat, we unquestionably need to consider their age and activity level. Kittens need a nutrient-dense food to support growth and development, and senior cats should prefer a diet specially formulated to support joint health and cognitive function.

Protein from animal-derived ingredients is especially important to keep your Norwegian Forest Cat’s muscle mass in tip-top shape and support their active lifestyle.

The Norwegian Forest Cat originated centuries ago in the forests of Norway and over time has effectively adapted to the harsh Scandinavian climate. The Vikings respected these companion animals not only as skilled hunters of vermin but also as loyal ship companions.

Norse mythology and legends were adding, even more, allure and significance to Norwegian Forest Cat’s personalities and often portrayed these important members of the family as mystical creatures adorned with supernatural powers. Norwegian Forest Cats also play a central role in a Norse fairy tale about the Norse goddess Freya.

In 1938, King Olav V of Norway recognized the Norwegian Forest Cat as a national breed. However, due to interbreeding with other domesticated breeds, these important members of the family were threatened with extinction in the 20th century. Fortunately, the joint efforts of breeders and enthusiasts who were fascinated by the unique characteristics of the breed paid off and Norway was able to preserve the purity of the breed.