Norwegian Forest Cat Cat: Breed Profile
A hardy, independent climber with a waterproof coat and a calm personality.
- Origin
- Norway
- Size
- Large
- Typical weight
- 4–9 kg (9–20 lb)
- Life expectancy
- 14–16 years
- Coat
- Long coat
- Best for
- Families with space to climb
Temperament and personality
Norwegian Forest Cats are friendly but more independent than Maine Coons. They enjoy company without demanding constant attention and tend to get along well with children and other pets. They are excellent climbers and love high vantage points.
They mature slowly and stay playful into adulthood.
Size and appearance
Large and sturdy with a triangular face, tufted ears, a thick double coat that is water-resistant, a full ruff and a long bushy tail.
Activity and enrichment
Moderate. Tall, heavy-duty cat trees are a must. Many enjoy harness walks or a secure catio.
Coat care and grooming
Brush one to two times a week, and daily during the dramatic seasonal molt, when the undercoat comes out in clumps.
Typical health concerns
Every cat is an individual, and most cats of any breed live long, healthy lives with good preventive care. These are the conditions most often discussed for this breed — ask a breeder for health-testing results and discuss screening with your vet.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).
- Glycogen storage disease type IV — a DNA test is available.
- Hip dysplasia.
Who is the Norwegian Forest Cat right for?
A good match if you…
- want a friendly but self-sufficient cat
- have room for tall cat furniture
- have children or other pets
Think twice if you…
- dislike cat hair on furniture
- live in a hot climate without air conditioning
