Norwegian Forest Cat: Coat, Personality, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Rooted in Scandinavian folklore and built for snow, the Norwegian Forest Cat, or Skogkatt, is a big, shaggy and graceful breed. It is often compared to the Maine Coon, but it has its own look, history and personality.

Origins

The breed developed naturally in Norway over centuries, and cats of this type appear in Norse folklore. Farmers valued them as mousers, and their thick coats allowed them to survive harsh winters. In the 1930s, Norwegian breeders began organizing the breed, and the Second World War nearly destroyed it. A breeding program rebuilt the population, and the breed reached the United States in the 1970s.

Appearance

Norwegian Forest Cats are large, sturdy and long-bodied, with strong hind legs that are longer than the front legs, which helps them climb headfirst down trees. The head is triangular with a straight profile and no break in the nose, and the almond-shaped eyes are expressive. Large ears are well furred. The coat is a double layer, with a dense woolly undercoat and long glossy water-resistant guard hairs, a full ruff, britches and a bushy tail. Almost every color and pattern is allowed except pointed patterns, with brown tabby and white combinations common.

Temperament

The Norwegian Forest Cat is friendly, calm and reserved at first. Many enjoy being near their people without being clingy, and they like to observe from high places. They are strong, confident climbers who need space and structure. Most are gentle with children and other pets, and tolerant when handled with respect.

They are intelligent and playful in moderate bursts. They have quiet, pleasant voices and tend not to be demanding. Many like toys that mimic prey and enjoy play with food puzzles.

Grooming

The coat is less prone to matting than it looks, because the guard hairs are smooth and water-shedding. Brush two to three times a week with a steel comb, focusing on the britches, belly and behind the ears. In spring, the breed sheds its thick undercoat, and daily brushing can prevent mats and hair on furniture. See how to brush a cat for technique.

Trim nails regularly, clean ears if needed and brush teeth.

Climbing and space

This breed needs room to climb. Provide a tall, sturdy cat tree rated for large cats, wall shelves and window perches. Make sure shelves are strong enough to support a large body. Provide scratching posts of tall sisal. Our indoor cat enrichment ideas have suggestions that suit climbers.

Health

Norwegian Forest Cats are generally healthy but a few conditions are worth knowing about.

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Reported in the breed, so breeders may screen with echocardiograms.
• Glycogen storage disease type IV. A rare inherited metabolic disease with a DNA test, and responsible breeders test for it.
• Hip dysplasia. Possible in large cats.
• Polycystic kidney disease. Reported in some lines.
• Obesity. Their thick coat can hide extra weight.

Ask breeders for test results, and see the cat health guides for signs to watch. Read how much should I feed my cat to avoid weight gain.

Living with a Norwegian Forest Cat

The breed is happiest in a home with a stable routine, space to explore and regular play. Because of its heavy coat, keep it cool in warm weather, with fresh water and good ventilation. A catio or harness training allows safe outdoor time.

Is a Norwegian Forest Cat right for you?

This breed suits owners who want a large, sturdy, friendly cat and who are prepared for seasonal shedding and regular grooming. It does not suit someone who wants a lap cat that cuddles constantly, or who lives in a very hot climate without cooling. If you are comparing similar cats, read the Maine Coon profile and the Ragdoll profile, and try the cat breed finder.

Finding one

Look for breeders who test for GSD IV and screen for HCM, and consider rescues. Our guide to cat vet visit costs helps you plan, and the US vet directory can help you find a clinic.

Heat and humidity

The thick double coat that protects against snow can be a burden in hot weather. Keep your home cool, provide shade, offer fresh water in several places and avoid strenuous play at midday. Cooling mats can help. Do not shave the coat without a vet's advice, because it protects against both cold and heat and may not grow back the same way. Watch for panting and restlessness, which are warning signs of overheating.

Slow maturity

Norwegian Forest Cats mature slowly, reaching full size around four to five years of age. During that time, feed a good-quality food for growth and keep an eye on weight. A kitten that grows rapidly is not necessarily healthy, and heavy kittens put stress on developing joints.

Common mistakes

• Not grooming during the spring molt.
• Assuming a large cat is fine in a small, sparse home with no climbing options.
• Letting the heavy coat hide weight gain.