Norwegian Forest
Origin
Norway
Height
9"- 12"
Adult Weight
12-16 pounds
Life Span
14-16 years
TEMPERAMENT
Playful, sweet, family-oriented, affectionate
OTHER NAMES
Skogkatt, Norsk skaukatt
Group
Large long-haired
Price
$900-$1,500
Personality and Temperament
Care
- NUTRITION
- GROOMING
- EXERCISE
- HEALTH
Characteristics
History
The Breed Standard
Body
The body is large and sturdy, of moderate length, with a broad chest and a wide (but not fat) girth. Males are typically much larger than females.
Head
The head forms an equilateral triangle, with a straight nose, a firm chin, and a muzzle that melds with the rest of the face without forming prominent whisker pads. Males may display significant jowling.
Eyes
The eyes are large and expressive, with a distinct almond shape. They are set at a slight angle so that the outer corner is higher than the inner corner. Eyes complement the coat and are normally green, gold, copper, or green-gold. Cats with white markings as well as solid white Norwegian Forest Cats may have blue eyes or odd eyes.
Ears
A Norwegian Forest Cat’s ears are of medium to large size, with heavy furnishings. Lynx tips are seen as highly desirable but are not required.
Legs & Paws
The legs are of medium length, with the hind legs being a bit longer than the forelegs. The legs are strong and muscular, and the paws are large and round. The front paws appear to “toe out” and all paws display tufting between the toes.
Tail
The Norwegian Forest Cat’s tail should be long and bushy. Ideally, the tail is the same length as the cat’s body. The tail is thickest at the base, and has ample plumage formed by longer guard hairs.
Coat
Norwegian Forest Cats have thick, double coats with water-resistant guard hairs, a heavy, wooly undercoat, britches, and a bib. The undercoat is typically shed during summer.
Color
Almost all colors and patterns are acceptable with the exception of those that show hybridization, i.e., sable, chocolate, lilac, lavender, cinnamon, fawn, colorpoint markings, and any blend of these colors with white. The nose leather and paw pads may be any color.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How much does a Norwegian Forest Cat cost?
How much does a Norwegian Forest Cat cost?A pet-quality Norwegian Forest Cat kitten typically cost between $1,800 and $2,000. -
How big do Norwegian Forest Cats get?
How big do Norwegian Forest Cats get?The Norwegian Forest Cat is moderately long and sturdily built, with substantial bone structure. Males weigh on average between 12 and 18 pounds. Females tend to be smaller, averaging 8 to 12 pounds. -
How long do Norwegian Forest Cats live?
How long do Norwegian Forest Cats live?The average life span for a Norwegian Forest Cat is 13 to 16 years, but some have been known to live to be 20 years old. -
Do Norwegian Forest Cats shed?
Do Norwegian Forest Cats shed?The Norwegian Forest Cat’s thick double coat shed less than you might expect for such a fluffy cat. Weekly brushing can remove loose hair to reduce shedding in the house. In the springtime, Norwegian Forest Cats lose much of their undercoat in preparation for the warmer summer months. During this time, shedding is generally heavier; daily brushing can help move the process along.