Norwegian Forest Cat
Viking-era forest cats with double coats built for snow.
Norwegian Forest Cats are large, robust cats with weather-resistant double coats designed for harsh Scandinavian winters. They are gentle, intelligent, and independent — affectionate but not clingy. Excellent climbers, they were known to come down trees head-first.
Key facts
| Origin | Norway |
|---|---|
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 12–22 lbs |
| Lifespan | 14–16 years |
| Energy | Medium |
| Vocality | Low |
| Grooming | Brush 2–3 times a week, daily during seasonal shed |
| Shedding | High |
| With children | ●●●●● |
|---|---|
| With other pets | ●●●●● |
| For beginners | ●●●●○ |
| Apartment life | ●●●○○ |
Pros & cons
✓ What's great
- Stunning appearance
- Hardy and weather-resistant
- Independent yet affectionate
- Long-lived
✗ Things to know
- Heavy seasonal shedders
- Need space and ideally outdoor access
- Slow to mature (4–5 years)
Ideal owner
A Norwegian Forest Cat may suit you well if you:
- Are a first-time cat owner looking for a forgiving, adaptable breed
- Have children or a busy, sociable household
- Already have dogs or other cats at home
A Norwegian Forest Cat may not suit you if you:
- Have significant cat allergies
Health considerations
Like all breeds, Norwegian Forest Cats can be predisposed to certain conditions. A reputable breeder will screen for these, and regular vet check-ups help catch issues early.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Hip dysplasia
- Glycogen storage disease
Is a Norwegian Forest Cat right for you?
The best way to find out if a Norwegian Forest Cat suits your lifestyle is to take the What Cat? breed quiz — it weighs your living space, schedule, household, and preferences against all 68 breeds in our encyclopedia.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Norwegian Forest Cat a good cat for first-time owners?
Yes — Norwegian Forest Cats are an excellent choice for first-time cat owners. They are adaptable and forgiving, with a temperament described as: independent, gentle, and quietly affectionate.
Are Norwegian Forest Cats good for apartments?
Norwegian Forest Cats can manage in apartments with the right setup — climbing structures, puzzle feeders, and regular play sessions to meet their activity needs.
Are Norwegian Forest Cats good with children?
Norwegian Forest Cats are generally excellent with children. They are patient, tolerant of handling, and social enough to enjoy the energy of family life including young children.
Are Norwegian Forest Cats hypoallergenic?
Norwegian Forest Cats are not specifically hypoallergenic and produce standard levels of Fel d 1, the main cat allergen. If allergies are a concern, consider breeds like the Siberian, Balinese, or Devon Rex.
Does a Norwegian Forest Cat suit your lifestyle?
Take the free 18-question What Cat? quiz to find out — and get a full ranked list of breeds matched to your real life.
Take the free quiz →Further reading: Norwegian Forest Cat on Wikipedia