These cats need to be large to survive harsh Scandinavian winters. That’s why they have such thick, water-resistant coats. The Norwegian Forest Cat is a domestic breed from the Scandinavian region of Northern Europe. They are known for being muscular but reserved creatures who prefer to climb.
The Norwegian forest cat is powerfully built. Adult females of this breed will typically weigh 3.6 – 8 kg, while males tend to weigh 4.5 to 9 kg. The breed has a long, robust body, long legs and a bushy tail.
There are few animals with names as majestic as the Norwegian Forest Cat. As it turns out, the actual cat isn’t far from the fantasy. These are huge cats by housecat standards. However, they’re not particularly common, so you may not be familiar with these wonderful creatures.
The abundance of fur makes the Norwegian look even bigger than she is. The coat is both thick and long. This coat provided natural protection for the breed.
Yes, Norwegian Forest Cats can grow to an exceptional size. For example, the average weight for a large adult male cat is around 12 lbs, but for a Norwegian Forest cat, this is 25% bigger, at 16 lbs.
The Norwegian Forest Cat is strong and larger than an average cat. The breed has a long, robust body, long legs and a bushy tail. What is the most dangerous animal in the cat family?
They can stand between 9 and 12 inches tall and are usually between 12 and 18 inches long. The abundance of fur makes the Norwegian look even bigger than she is. This coat provided natural protection for the breed. Though they might look like little mountain cats, the Norwegian Forest Cat is actually a domesticated breed that is affectionate and loving.
What’s special about Norwegian Forest Cats?
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a breed originating in Northern Europe. This natural breed adapted to very cold climates, with long, glossy fur and a woolly undercoat for insulation. Their ancestors were short-haired cats brought by Vikings to Norway around 1000 AD. The Norwegian Forest Cat faced near extinction during World War II. Then the Norwegian Forest Cat Club’s breeding program increased the cat’s number.
The Norwegian Forest Cat has a broad chest, considerable girth, and back legs somewhat longer than front legs. Their medium to large ears are rounded at the tips and heavily furred. They have thick, long fur and like bonding with people. Though big-bodied, these cats are gentle and friendly.
In the 1930s efforts began to preserve the breed’s purity in Norway, where it gained recognition. It was also recognized internationally in the 1970s. Today it is appreciated for beauty, temperament and history. The Norwegian Forest Cat is intelligent with excellent problem-solving abilities, adapting well to different environments. This versatility likely traces back to its days as an outdoor hunter.
While independent, Norwegian Forest Cats form close bonds and show affection delightfully. Their gentle temperament makes them great family cats. They come in almost any color and are larger than similar Maine Coon cats. Overall, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a remarkable, friendly breed with an ancient history suited to cold climates.
Where is the Norwegian Forest?
This beautiful forest stretches inwards along Farris Lake in Larvik. It is the world’s northernmost beech tree forest. In 1980 it was protected by the Norwegian Nature Diversity Act.
Forests and other wooded land cover approximately 37 per cent, or 119,000 km2, of the Norwegian mainland. Of this, almost 23 per cent, or approximately 72,000 km2 is regarded as productive forest. The broad definition of coastal conifer forests in Norway is based on climatic parameters. It includes a long area along the western Norwegian coast from Lindesnes north to approximately Senja. In essence areas along the Norwegian coast where precipitation is high and winters are fairly mild. In total, between 1990 and 2010, Norway gained 10.2% of its forest cover, or around 935,000 ha. Norway’s forests contain 395 million metric tons of carbon in living forest biomass.
In summer Oslo forest is full of blueberries, lush green moss, wild flowers and bird singing. Oslomarka is home to different species such as deer, fox, lynx, wolf, and moose. People living in Oslo have a strong connection to the nature and forest. In fairy tail and legends, the forest hides mysteries and supernatural beings. Although the Oslo forest is serene and secluded, it lies just behind the corner of the Norwegian capital. You don’t even need a car to get there. Hiking in Oslo forest is a great way to travel in a sustainable way, enjoying the gorgeous nature and stunning views from the green hills above the city.
The Scandinavian coastal conifer forests or Norwegian coastal conifer forest is located along the coast of Norway. Within it are areas with botanical features and a local climate consistent with a temperate rainforest. The national tree of Norway is the Norwegian Spruce Tree. According to the U.N. FAO, 33.1% or about 10,065,000 ha of Norway is forested. Of this 2.2% (223,000 ) is classified as primary forest, the most biodiverse and carbon-dense form of forest.
They are very intelligent and can be reliable companions, being extremely friendly and playful. A kitten raised among people who treated him with affection and care will behave totally differently from one who grew up in isolation or in the wild. Endowed with intelligence and a natural curiosity, Skogkatt are calm, patient cats and do not get stressed easily. Don’t expect them to sit on your lap during the summer; they generally prefer to lie next to you. Besides, it’s not noisy either. The forest Norwegian is very careful with her fur, ingrown quite well and alone.
Forestry and the forest industry are important trades in Norway. In 1995, the gross production value for the forestry sector, including primary forestry and the forest industry was valued at NOK 35,000 million. The added value was about NOK 16 billion and the export value about NOK 17,000 million.
The Southern part of the Scandinavian Montane Birch Forests and Grasslands is situated in Norway’s central highlands, home to Galdhøpiggen, the tallest mountain in mainland Northern Europe. The Northern part follows the Scandinavian mountains across Norway and Sweden, and touches the northern tip of Finland. The treeline forest of these high mountains is not composed of conifers: it is a tangle of downy birch. Adorned by lichens and mosses, these trees are miniaturized at the highest points to only 2-3 m tall; berries and reindeer lichens carpet the ground.
In autumn the forest turns to red and yellow, and during winter the trees are snow-covered. You also find Bøkekroa cafe where you can enjoy live jazz every Friday during summer. Bøkekroa is open all year and serves traditionally Norwegian food. For the historian, there are 80-90 registered burial mounds, the largest Iron Age burial ground in Vestfold and one of the largest in Norway. The highest point called “The Bellevue” gives you an excellent view of the Farris lake.
In legends and fairy tales, the forest hides mysteries and supernatural beings expressed in paintings by Theodor Kittelsen. The mystery of the forest has even been a source of inspiration for Norwegian black metal. But is there really untamed and untouched forest in Norway today, or primeval forest? “We are in the process of forgetting what forests actually look like,” Mikkel Soya Bølstad said. He published a book about his hunt for the Norwegian primeval forest, telling stories about experiencing hidden natural gems. The book is first and foremost a tribute to the forest, but it also has a serious side.
What is the lifespan of a Norwegian Forest cat?
The Norwegian Forest Cat lifespan is typically between 12 to 16 years based on data from the International Cat Association and observations from various Norwegian Forest Cat clubs and breeders. To ensure your Norwegian Forest Cat lives a long and healthy life, prioritize regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper grooming.
There are a few common genetic disorders that Norwegian Forest Cats are predisposed to. Genetics play a significant role in determining the lifespan of a Norwegian Forest Cat. Some breeds are prone to certain health issues that can shorten their lifespan, such as heart disease or kidney problems.
Nutrition and exercise are also key factors in a cat’s lifespan, as a well-balanced diet and regular physical activity can help prevent obesity and other health issues. To keep your Norwegian Forest Cat healthy and happy, it’s important to provide proper care like regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, preventive treatments for parasites and a balanced, high-quality diet tailored for optimal health and wellbeing.
The Norwegian Forest Cat breed attained championship status in 1993 and won over the last association, American Cat Association in 1995. This breed is very popular in the US and Europe. The Norwegian Forest Cat has a robust and healthy appetite, which is essential in determining its lifespan. A well-balanced diet is crucial to ensure your cat receives the nutrients necessary to thrive.
On average, cats tend to live between 12-16 years – some even reaching their early twenties. However, Norwegian Forest Cats have been known to surpass these averages, enjoying happy and healthy lives well into their late teens or even longer depending on quality healthcare and balanced nutrition.