Norwegian Forest

...Cat Breed

		Cats of Norway     The Norwegian Forest Cat (Norsk Skogcatt) is a large but refined breed that developed from the working farm cats of Norway. They're natural cats that are calm, intelligent and majestic.    They are very similar to the Maine Coon cats; the main physical contrast between them is the shape of their head. The Norwegian Forest Cat has a more triangular shape head with a straight nose. Their fur is a little more rugged and greasy.

History

   The Norwegian Forest cats are the result of Viking sailors bringing home long-haired cats that they found in Turkey and elsewhere during the ninth century. The Vikings did this purely for practical reason; it was to control insects and rats on board their ship during their long sea voyages.
   These variety of cats where then crossbred, and only those with the most rugged coats and strength could survive the harsh Scandinavian winters and prosper to become the pets of isolated farmers all over Norway and Sweden.
   In the Norse legend, it is said that the ancestors of the modern day Norwegian Forest cat lived in the forests of Norway for many centuries. In winter, when the cats had a hard time finding enough food, they would seek out human companionship. The Norwegian Forest cats were later appreciated and valued by the people because these cats made themselves extremely useful around the farms and houses by controlling vermin.
   Today, deep in the huge Norwegian forests and in the countryside there are still lots of Norwegian Forest Cats living there. In the mid 1950s, Scandinavian urban development threatened the Norwegian Forest Cat, so a special breeding program was placed in Norway to save these majestic cats.

Description

   The Norwegian Forest is a large sturdy, strongly built muscular cat with a strong bone structure. It has a broad chest and longish body. Thighs are heavily muscles and the hind legs longer than the front. The paws are large, round and strong, with tufts of hair between the toes.
   Their head should be triangular with a long straight nose and a strong chin. Their ears should be high and somewhat broad at the base. These cats have expressive almond-shaped eyes that are fairly slanted.
   They are semi-longhaired cats with a dense, woolly undercoat that is covered by a smooth, water-resistant outer coat that protects the cat from harsh weather.
   The Norwegian Forest Cat matures slowly; it takes up to four years to fully develop. An adult male cat weighs approximately 14 to 16lbs while the female can range between 8 to 12lbs.

Temperament

   The ancestors of the Norwegian Forest cats have been cherished pets in the farming communities in Norway for many centuries. The result is an easy-going, good natured cat that is affectionate and enjoys human companionship. They are calm and tolerant, but are fairly active as well.
   An excellent hunter, this cat is a hardy outdoor breed. However, there are many Norwegian Forest Cats that lead a happy indoor life. These cats were kept indoors since they were a kitten and were able to work off their active energy.
   Playful, the Norwegian Forest cats are independent and climb incredibly well. A climbing post and a good scratching post are an absolute must. They also enjoy playing with cat toys such as balls and furry mice.
   They have a tendency to become loyal to one person. This cat breed is usually not intrusive or vocal, yet they enjoy attention and being touched and stroked. They usually get along extremely well with dogs and other cats. Curious in nature, the Norwegian Forest Cat will remain playful until their golden years.

Care

   Daily brushing or combing is required during shedding season (spring), otherwise very little attention is needed. The greasy, water-resistant coat does not usually need additional attention and is easy to care for.
   Excellent hunters, Norwegian Forest Cats naturally love the outdoors, so therefore they need plenty of outdoor access. If kept strictly indoors since birth, owners should provide an adequate environment with climbing post, scratching post, cat toys etc.