Norwegian Forest Cat

The history of the Norwegian forest cat reads like a folk story. They emerged some 4000 years ago from the woods and forests of this cold northerly land and finding it beneficial to adopt humans as their companions, in return for food and the warmth of the fireside, accompanied the Vikings on their missions exploring the world, protecting the grain stores from vermin both on land and sea. Norse mythology tells that they are descendants of fairy cats.

It is believed that these cats were the ancestors of the Maine Coon and this is how they arrived in America many years ago.http://www.cfa.org/breeds/profiles/norwegian.html

In 1934 "The Cat Fancy Association Of Norway" was established, but it was not until 1938 that they were thought of as a special breed. With the onset of World War II all activities with pedigree cats ceased and this breed was almost forgotten until the 1970’s and in 1976 the efforts of the breeders were rewarded with the official recognition of the Norwegian forest cat as a pedigree breed.

These cats are truly spectacular in appearance, with beautiful glowing green eyes, are available in most colors and have a dense long coat that does not require as much grooming as other long haired cats, the spring time is the only time of year when their coats require more work as they shed the thick winter undercoat. Because of this they can give the impression of being two different cats as their appearance differs depending on the season. They acquire their full coat on maturity at around five years old.

The late King Olaf designated Norwegian forest cats as the official cat of Norway.

This is a big, strong, well muscled cat who is never happier than when climbing trees, it is a very good idea to provide one for him or a substitute if this is impossible. Their most common method of descent is headfirst!

Norwegian Forest Cats are sweet natured, lovable, people orientated cats who are also at ease with children and other animals. This is an ideal pet for families as they require a lot of affection and attention, they have been known to leave and find a another home if they are ignored!

Although normally a healthy breed, Norwegian forest cats can be prone to poly-cystic kidney disease (PKD), which causes renal failure.http://www.catster.com/breeds/Norwegian_Forest_Cat