When most people finally decide to buy a Norwegian Forest Cat, they almost always start looking for a kitten from a breeder. If you thought the adult version of the Norwegian Forest Cat is adorable, just wait until you meet the fluffy, rambunctious kitten version! Nicknamed “Wegies” for short, Norwegian Forest Cats are one of the most intelligent, even-tempered cat breeds out there. There are plenty of good reasons why the Norwegian Forest Cat is so popular, and we’ll help guide you through getting one of your very own.
Where to Find Norwegian Forest Cat Kittens
Most people end up purchasing a Norwegian Forest Cat kitten from a reputable breeder, which you can find a complete list of below. Because the breed is so popular, almost every state in the United States has a list of breeders to choose from, so there’s a good chance you’ll find one very close to you!
Norwegian Forest Cat Kitten Cost
Also, compared to many other cat breeds, Norwegian Forest Cats are relative cheap. Sphynx cats and Bengal cats, for example, can easily cost upwards of $5000.
How to Choose a Norwegian Forest Cat Breeder
There’s a lot that goes into raising healthy, well-socialized Norwegian Forest Cat kittens as a breeder, and there are several things you can look out for as a buyer to make sure you find the right one. Some of these include:
1) They’re a member of a cat association
Some recognizable cat associations include The International Cat Association (TICA), the Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA) and the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe). Almost all breeders that have been approved by one of these cat associations are assured to be high quality catteries because they must pass certain requirements to do so. Being part of an association also ensures that the kitten you are getting is indeed a Norwegian Forest Cat and not some mixed breed. Every breeder on our list of breeders is a member of a cat association.
2) Contracts & Guarantees
Any good cat breeder will provide a contract when they sell the kitten that includes a health guarantee that outlines what will happen if the kitten develops any sort of health issue and states the new owner’s responsibility to adequately care for the kitten.
3) Genetic Testing
Like most purebred cats, Norwegian Forest Cats have certain health issues that are more prevalent than in most domestic house cats, and good breeders will do everything they can to ensure that litters are free of these genetic health disorders. This includes testing the parents and kittens to make sure they do not have the genetic markers for some of these conditions.
4) Health Records
One of the primary responsibilities of a breeder is to give the kittens regular health checkups at the vet and get certain vaccines administered. They should hand over these health records when the kitten is sold so you can provide them to your vet and have a starting place for your kitten care.
Why Buy A Norwegian Forest Cat Kitten
Norwegian Forest Cats are set apart from most other cats because they have incredible personalities and astounding physical characteristics. Many people love how affectionate, intelligent and social Norwegian Forest Cats are, as well as their patient temperament.
What To Expect With a Norwegian Forest Cat Kitten
Raising a Norwegian Forest Cat kitten is an entirely different experience than having an adult Norwegian Forest Cat; their high energy levels and propensity to get themselves into trouble will require a lot more of your attention and patience. You might even have to train your Wegie kitten to not chew on things or attack your hand, and socializing them to get along well with other people or pets will take time and concentration.
Remember, kittens aren’t toys meant to just look cute and conveniently ignore when you don’t have time for them, they’re a lifelong commitment that will require a lot of love and care to grow into healthy, well-adjusted adults.
Caring For Your Norwegian Forest Cat Kitten
You’ll want to provide plenty of toys and places for your new kitten to sleep, after all, they will sleep a lot (16-20 hrs per day!). Before bringing home your Norwegian Forest Cat kitten for the first time, you’ll want to buy at least the following items:
- Cat treats (also good for training)
- Litter box and cat Litter
- Cat bed
- Cat carrier
- Cat brush and nail clippers
- Scratching post
- Food and water dishes
- Toys
