The Norwegian Forest Cat is an old breed with a thick, warm coat and large, muscular build to help it survive the harsh winters of its native land of Norway. Nicknamed the Wegie (short for “Norwegian”, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a lovable, calm cat that would make a perfect companion for most people.
The Norwegian Forest Cat is called “skogkatt” in Norway, a term that literally means “forest cat”.
- Nickname: Wegie
- Coat Length: Long
- Shedding: High
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Average Female Weight: 9-12 lbs
- Average Male Weight: 12-16 lbs
- Time to Maturity: 4-5 years
- Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
- Origins: Norway
- Social: High
- Intelligence: High
- Kid/Pet Friendly: High
Physical Characteristics of the Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest Cat can be easily identified by its longhair coat, bushy tail, big paws and large overall size. They have a triangular head with big eyes and medium-sized ears with tufts of hair. They come in many different colors and patterns, from tabby and tortie to red and black. However, it’s worth noting that the Wegie does not come in any sort of colorpoint pattern.
Although the Norwegian Forest Cat looks a lot like the Siberian Cat and Maine Coon, there are some physical differences between the breeds and their genetic lineages are distinctly separate. However, it is likely that the Maine Coon shares ancestors with the Norwegian Forest Cat as they probably came to the United States as ship cats from Scandinavia.
Personality Traits of the Norwegian Forest Cat
Aside from their unforgettable appearance, the Wegie has an absolutely lovable personality. They’re an intelligent, social and affectionate breed that would make a great companion for most people. They’ll want to snuggle up with you on the couch and be near as you go about your day.
Compared to a lot of breeds, the Norwegian Forest Cat is quite independent and won’t necessarily be as high maintenance in demanding all of your attention. For many people they’re the perfect balance of affection and independence.
