A feline that looks like it stepped straight out of a Viking legend (which it probably did) with a coat that shines with luxury and a gaze that announces to the world – “I’m royalty and I know it.” It’s none other than the Norwegian Forest Cat.
We won’t be able to blame you if you just saw a random image of a Norwegian Forest Cat on the internet yesterday and today, you’re already searching for its price. We are going to assume that you’ve already read everything about this breed and you’re here to know the final piece of information – the price.
In case you haven’t, we have an entire article about Norwegian Forest Cat Personality and another one titled Norwegian Forest Cat vs Maine Coon. You can go and read about them and come back here. (don’t forget to click on ‘Open in a new tab’ though)
If you already have, then let’s get right to the price of owning a Norwegian Forest Cat or a ‘Wegie’, as it is popularly known.
Are Norwegian Forest Cats Rare?
Norwegian Forest Cats are a pure breed. This means they were developed without any intentional breeding. However, during World War II, they almost went extinct due to crossbreeding. Efforts have been made since then to protect the breed.
They are quite popular in Scandinavian countries, France and even China. But in the U.S., they are considered a rare cat breed. (2)
How Much Does a Purebred Norwegian Forest Cat Cost?
Keeping their rarity in mind, a Norwegian Forest Cat kitty will cost you anywhere between $900-$1500 in the US. They are typically imported from their home country, Norway. The breeder’s reputation, genetics of the cat, color, etc. can also influence the price here. The high-titled breeding line ones may even cost you up to $4000. (1)
Why are Norwegian Forest Cats So Expensive?
This is because of simple demand and supply economics. One look at these magnificent creatures and you’ll realize that they must have mesmerized thousands of cat lovers if not more. But on the other side, the supply remains limited in the US as they are imported from their home country Norway. The breeders also need to make multiple trips to buy kitties to breed. These factors cause the prices to stay up making these cats expensive.
Cost of Long-Term Norwegian Forest Cat Care
Here’s a breakdown of all the major monthly costs of maintaining a Norwegian Forest Cat –
Food and treats – These cats do not require any special diet. A good quality, vet-recommended high-protein diet made up of fish and lean meat would do. Expect to spend around $40-$50 on it and add another $10 for the treats.
Grooming – These cats do not require a lot of grooming. An occasional bath coupled with once-a-week brushing should do. The supplies here would cost you around $10-$20. A professional grooming session would cost you around $30-$50 depending on the type of service you opt for.
Healthcare – A routine vet visit is recommended for all cats at least twice a year. The frequency may be higher during young ages. Expect to spend around $100-$200 per visit. Add another $30-$40 per vaccine shot. Don’t forget to keep some money aside for emergency vet visits in case of illnesses and accidents. (we’ve got the best way to save on these costs below)
While these are the major repetitive costs, there are going to be some one-time costs as well. We’ve totaled them below.
Lifetime Cost of a Norwegian Forest Cat
Adding up all the monthly expenses, you can expect the annual cost of maintenance for a Norwegian Forest Cat to be around $1000. Add initial costs of set up that include beds, crates, litter boxes, food and water bowls, etc. which can cost you around $300-$500 depending on your choices. The costs for treatment of medical conditions can vary depending on the severity. In case of serious conditions, the costs can go upwards of $5000 in some cases.
Adding all the costs, including the contingent ones, you can expect the lifetime cost of owning a Norwegian Forest Cat to be around $18,000-$20,000.
We can help you reduce it significantly though! Keep reading.
More About Spot Pet Insurance
As long as you are planning your finances for owning these beautiful cats, here’s something that can put a big dent in your savings – Treatment for the medical conditions they are prone to. They include -
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) – It is the most common heart disease in felines. It is caused by the thickening of the heart muscle which leads to blood clot formation, fluid accumulation in the lungs, and heart failure.
Join problems – Large felines like the Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats often tend to suffer from hip dysplasia. Some cases may even require surgery.
Polycystic kidney disease – This condition damages a cat’s kidneys eventually leading to renal failure.
Apart from the medical conditions mentioned above that these breeds are prone to, they can also suffer from some lifestyle diseases in their lifetime. These include – (1)
Diabetes
Urinary tract diseases (bladder stones, cystitis)
Liver issues
Kidney disease
Hyperthyroidism
Treatment for these can cause a big dent in your savings at times. With pet health insurance, you can save up to 90% of them. With Spot Pet, you can save many more costs.
Cat Insurance helps to provide pet parents with additional financial support and peace of mind when it comes to the health and wellness of their pets. With a Spot plan, pet parents can receive up to 90% cash back on eligible vet bills. This way pet parents can focus on caring for and supporting their pets. Spot's also offers preventive care add-ons, which can help cover the eligible costs of spaying and neutering, dental cleaning, vaccinations, and other routine care services.
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Norwegian Forest Cat - price, personality, lifespan. (n.d.). Catbreedslist.com. https://www.catbreedslist.com/all-cat-breeds/norwegian-forest-cat.html
