Emma Jones
Would you like a cat that looks original and still has a human-related, friendly character? With its semi-long hair and lynx-like ears, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a very special beauty. It may look fresh out of the wild, but it is a real cuddly tiger with a tender nature. What fascinates lovers of this Norwegian is also the centuries-long history of the Norwegian Forest Cat, which is one of the largest pedigree cats.
History of the Norwegian Forest Cat
For centuries there have been fairy tales and songs about forest cats, fairy cats, and troll cats. Their original type probably developed from short-haired cats that migrated from Central Europe to the northern regions. You don’t know that exactly. In any case, the harsh climate in Scandinavia contributed to the fact that the hair of these cats became longer and thicker due to evolution. In the 1930s, when the Norwegian Forest cat began mating with short-haired domestic cats, some Norwegian breeders began to save their genes. The first forest cat appeared at an exhibition before the Second World War. The first tomcat was recognized by the international breeding association FIFe in 1977. His picture was even featured on Norwegian TV news. Even today, by the way, representatives of the breed still live freely and independently of people in Norway’s forests. The Norwegian forest cat is visually very similar to the European wildcat.
The appearance of the Norwegian Forest Cat
A striking feature of the Norwegian Forest Cat is its ears, which have small tufts of hair protruding from the tips. The elegant beauty from the far north also wears a shirt front, ruff, and knickers. These terms refer to the lush fur that adorns the neck, chest, and hind legs of the Norwegian Forest Cats in the winter coat. In these areas, the soft, dense undercoat is particularly lush in the cold season and is covered by long, slightly greasy guard hairs. These protect the cat from moisture. Otherwise, the beautiful Norwegian is physically perfectly adapted to life in the cold forests of her homeland: Her hind legs are slightly longer than the front legs. This gives the cats great jumping power, making them excellent hunters. The wide paws, which distribute the weight better on snow, also help her in winter.
The range of colors and patterns allowed for the Norwegian Forest Cat according to breeding standards is very large: only the color variants chocolate, cinnamon, lilac, and fawn are not recognized.
Norwegian Forest Cat: Character
Despite their wild cat-like appearance, the animals are known for their gentle and cuddly character. They are real cuddly animals that demand a lot of attention and cuddles from their people. You should also plan enough time to play. With their friendly nature and strength of character, Norwegian Forest Cats make pleasant roommates. They are considered to be extremely sociable, which is why keeping them alone is generally not recommended.
Norwegian forest cat: husbandry and care
The Norwegian Forest Cat climbs, jumps, and has a high urge to move. Due to their size, keeping them as a pure indoor cat is only conditionally recommended for the power packs. Unless you can give the cats plenty of space in your home. Scratching posts and climbing opportunities must be appropriately stable. Coat care is particularly demanding during the molting season in spring: During this time, the cat loses its entire undercoat. So you have to brush your house tiger regularly. Otherwise, the Norwegian Forest Cat proves to be easy to care for and uncomplicated. Their life expectancy is around 15 years on average. So you have a lot of time for each other.