Cat breed · Natural / Longhair
Norwegian Forest Cat
A hardy Scandinavian natural breed built for cold forests, strong and enthusiastic about climbing.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Natural / Longhair
- Origin
- Norway
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 4–9 kg (9–20 lb)
- Height
- 23–30 cm
- Lifespan
- 14–16 years
- Coat
- Double coat with a water-shedding outer layer
- Temperament
- CalmIndependentFriendlyClimbing
History
Known in Norse folklore and preserved as a distinct breed from the 1930s onward.
Appearance
Large and triangular-faced with a ruff, tufted ears and a bushy tail.
Exercise and activity
Needs tall climbing structures and daily activity; enjoys safe outdoor access.
Care and grooming
Brush two or three times weekly and daily during the spring moult.
Health considerations
- Glycogen storage disease type IV
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Hip dysplasia
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Retinal dysplasia
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Norwegian Forest Cat
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Needs tall climbing structures and daily activity; enjoys safe outdoor access. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Glycogen storage disease type IV, Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Hip dysplasia, Polycystic kidney disease, Retinal dysplasia), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- International Cat Care — cat health, behaviour and welfare advice