Norwegian Forest Cat

Norwegian Cat: Breed Information Guide

A number of popular, longhaired cat breeds come out of regions in northern Europe, including the Maine Coon, the Siberian cat, and more.

Not to be confused with those breeds is the Norwegian forest cat.

As with every cat breed, these felines have a whole range of unique traits and needs to consider if you might be adding one to your home. To properly fulfill the responsibility of pet parentage, diligent research and careful consideration is needed to make sure any breed is a right fit for your home.

That's why we write our Spot Pet Insurance breed guides. With a bit of help, you can prepare to give your cat the home they deserve.

Today, we turn our attention to the Norwegian forest cat.

Meet the Norwegian cat

Often called simply the Norwegian cat or “Wegie,” this breed is easy to confuse with its compatriots from nearby regions of the world.

You can typically tell a Norwegian cat by its triangular face and long, straight snout. The breed also has a unique temperament which makes them ideal for many families.

If you’re looking for a breed that balances playfulness and calmness, the Norwegian cat may be perfect for you. However, consider the grooming needs of longhaired cats and other care concerns before adopting them straight away.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about Norwegian cat parenting!

Where does the Norwegian cat breed come from?

Cat breeds being named for their origin is a common trend, and Norwegian cats do not deviate.

This breed descends from cats of the cold, harsh, nordic lands of northern Europe. It is possible they date back more than 1000 years, having come from short-haired cats brought by Vikings.

These cats also have some of the earliest dedicated cat associations, their first having been formed in 1938 in Oslo, Norway. They were designated the official cat of Norway by King Olaf in the 1950s.

The breed was almost lost, unfortunately, as its genes became muddied through crossbreeding. In the 1970s, dedicated breeders saved the pure Norwegian forest cat breed. Soon after, it began to spread around the world and gain formal recognition with major associations.

Today, the breed is extremely popular throughout Europe and to varying lesser degrees in other parts of the world, including the U.S.

What are the potential health problems for Norwegian cats?

Norwegian cats have a good bill of health overall but, like all breeds, can be predisposed to certain conditions, especially those that pass down genetically.

There are a few health risks to be aware of for this breed, namely hip dysplasia, patella luxation, and heart diseases such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Whether you buy from a breeder or adopt, you should ask for proof of health screenings for major conditions in your Norwegian forest cat. Responsible breeders will not breed cats that are known to have a disease in their genes.

This breed doesn’t have any especially concerning issues with weight but may need a helping hand to stay active since they can become somewhat lazy.

Are Norwegian cats affectionate with family?

Affection as can be, this breed is often considered a lap cat breed. They are happy to cuddle up with family.

However, they show love in their own unique, sometimes subtle ways. Whether watching you with a pleasant expression from a high perch or quietly joining you on the sofa, they are gentle and sometimes indirect in the ways they love.

However, many owners will be relieved to know the breed generally isn’t clingy. They have an easy-going, undemanding temperament, which can be perfect if you need to get some work done at home or simply like your alone time.

At the same time, Norwegian cats shouldn’t be left home alone for more than a few hours, especially without another pet as a playmate.

Are Norwegian cats intelligent?

Yes, this breed is exceptionally intelligent. They can adapt and learn quickly, which includes training or behavior regimens you wish to instill.

Thankfully, they rarely wield this intelligence to mischievous ends, as some other breeds do. Opening doors and sabotaging table decor is not a favorite pastime, although this can vary from cat to cat (as with any trait).

Do Norwegian cats do well with children?

Children and Norwegian cats mix superbly well. This breed is tolerant of being picked up and loves to be stroked. The potential for playfulness is high as well, so children often have a blast with one of these cats around.

How are Norwegian cats with strangers?

These cats are generally friendly with everyone they meet. That said, socialization from a young age is the best way to ensure social interactions go as well as possible.

This breed is gentle and doesn’t demand attention, instead, accepting it gladly when it is given. Most strangers will find this demeanor pleasant and easy to approach.

Do Norwegian cats get along with other pets?

Other pets are warmly welcome by this breed, but it may not always be mutual.

There is one exception: small animals – especially creatures like mice or birds. This breed has a high prey drive (more so than most cats) and is very skilled as a hunter. It’s likely best not to let this cat share a home with a hamster, for example.

How to be the best pet parent for a Norwegian cat

Knowledge is power for a diligent pet parent, and your Norwegian cat can thrive when you are prepared and know how to approach its every need.

From care costs to health conditions and lifestyle, our Spot Pet Insurance Blog has the content you need to help throughout your journey.

For today, let’s cover a few more areas you should know about before adopting a Norwegian forest cat, including costs, training, and exercise.

Remember that costs can vary depending on the type of pet insurance you choose (if any), how much you wish to spoil your cat, and what your budget looks like. Rescues are generally much less expensive to adopt than cats from a breeder as well.

How much does a Norwegian cat cost?

Adoption fee: $800-1,500

First year: $710-2600

Following years: $660-2400

Basic training and behavior etiquette for your Norwegian cat

Norwegian cats are not particularly mischievous, nor are they aggressive. Nonetheless, training is still beneficial for them.

Socialization should always be the starting point, as well as behavior training to prevent unwanted activities.

Positive reinforcement is your best tool for cats, as they tend to be sensitive to harsh treatment or punishments.

What types of foods should Norwegian cats never eat?

In addition to providing a good diet as recommended by your veterinarian, there are also foods you should be keeping away from your cat at all times.

Varying levels of toxicity for cats make these foods an absolute no, so don’t give them to your cat or leave them out in the open.

Exercising tips to keep your Norwegian cat staying fit and healthy

Norwegian cats can be playful but sometimes need a push to stay active. Be sure to provide plenty of interaction and stimulation to keep your cat moving and fit.

Cat trees are a great start, as they are safe perches around the house for your Norwegian cat to climb. Feel free to get creative, especially if you are on a budget!

Toys should also be provided, including mice toys, which these natural hunters love.

If you’re willing to take the time to train your cat to leash walk, taking them outside can be a fun way to get some serious exercise for them and work on socialization.

Norwegian cat life stages

Kitten: 0 - 4 years

Adult: 4 years - 12 years

Senior: 12 years - end of life

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