City Pets - Norwegian Forest Cat

Photographs courtesy of Trappistini Norwegian Forest cats.

One of the most endearing characteristics of the Norwegian Forest Cat is its temperament - intelligent and fun-loving yet gentle and laid-back, energetic and sociable yet not too demanding - a "Wegie" makes an excellent and rewarding friend for life. As for grooming, this is easily dealt with by means of occasional combing - for their natural coats are largely self-maintaining

The Norwegian Forest Cat has a very particular coat quality, a so-called nature-coat: lightly ‘wooly’ undercoat, just enough to keep the animal warm, in addition to a long ‘cover-hair’ (more smooth and thick) which protect the ‘wooly hairs’ against moisture and wetness.

The Norwegian Forest Cat is a large, heavy boned, yet elegant semi-longhaired cat, the most important features being type and coat quality.

Originating in harsh natural conditions, the breed became an outdoor working cat on Norwegian Farms.
The appearance of the Norwegian Forest Cat should reflect this natural heritage.

The Norwegian Forest Cat matures slowly, and full development of the cat and its coat can take up to four years.
A distinctive double coat is required. Coat colour is irrelevant.

The cat should have an alert expression, be in good general condition and well presented.

Type: Broad build and high/tall legs.

Head: Long, triangular, straight profile or slightly concave bend without a ‘stop’ or break, good chin.

Eyes: Large, open, colour matching the coat.

Ears: High, with tufts. They have to sit high on the head but not too close.

Coat: Long, slightly ‘wooly’ undercoat. Overcoat smooth, hanging, more of an oily quality that that of the Persian so that it doesn’t become matted.
‘Knickers’ on the back legs, ‘collar’, ‘shirt on the breast’, ‘cheek-beard’ preferably in a triangular shape from the ears. All colours allowed.

Tail: Long and bushy (fox’s tail).

Condition: muscular and strong and broad.

Note: females are very feminine and the profile usually does not become as full as that of the males, aslo females are smaller and finer than the males.

Photographs courtesy of Trappistini Norwegian Forest cats.

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