Also called Norsk skogkatt, Norsk skaukatt, Skogkatt, Wegie
Recognised breedDeep profile
From Norway. A natural landrace shaped by the cold Scandinavian climate over many centuries, later formalised as a pedigree breed by Norwegian fanciers from the 1930s onward.123
Wikipedia gives males 4.5-9 kg and females 3.6-8 kg. CFA and GCCF give males 12-16 lb (about 5.4-7.3 kg, GCCF says 16+ lb) and females 9-12 lb (about 4.1-5.4 kg). Purina UK gives 5.8-10 kg without splitting by sex. The breed matures slowly and may take up to five years to reach full size.
A big, solid, strong-boned cat with a long body and sturdy legs, the back legs standing noticeably taller than the front ones. The head forms an even-sided triangle with a long straight profile, topped by large, high-set ears that often carry lynx-style tufts. The eyes are large, oval and set at a slight slant, and may be any colour. The coat has a dense woolly underlayer protected by shiny, water-shedding outer hairs, and in winter a full-coated cat shows a thick ruff, a shirtfront and fluffy 'knickerbockers' on the hind legs. The tail is long and bushy, reaching at least to the shoulder blades. Big round paws often have tufts of fur between the toes.64253
Coloursblackblueredcreamwhitetortoiseshellblue-creamsmokesilvergoldenshadedtabby (brown tabby is especially common)bicolour and other patterns with whiteamber and light amber (FIFe, in black and blue based cats)6423
Personality what they are like
A calm, good-natured cat that is sociable with its own family but not usually clingy or a constant lap cat. It enjoys company and interaction, likes praise, and tends to seek people out after time alone, while being happy to amuse itself. With visitors it can be a little reserved at first. It is bright and curious, shows short bursts of playful energy, and often chats with soft bird-like chirps. Most get along well with children, other cats and dogs, especially in calm, patient homes.24531
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Active and athletic with a strong hunting instinct. Provide tall cat trees, shelves and sturdy scratching posts for climbing, plus daily interactive play such as wand toys and chase or 'hunting' games. Many enjoy safe outdoor access or an enclosed garden run, but they can adapt to indoor life with plenty of vertical space and enrichment.2534
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Easier to care for than the coat suggests. A thorough comb-through about once a week with a stainless-steel comb keeps most adults tangle-free; kittens and older cats may need more frequent help. During the spring moult, when the thick winter undercoat comes out, comb more often, even daily, to prevent knots and reduce swallowed hair.4253
Home where they are happiest
Needs room to climb and survey from height, so tall, stable cat trees or wall shelves are important. Suits homes with secure outdoor space or an enclosed run, and can live indoors if given enough vertical territory, scratching surfaces and play.25
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, balanced commercial cat food suited to life stage, as cats are obligate carnivores needing animal-based nutrients. Measure portions and use food puzzles or feeding toys, since indoor cats can gain weight easily; fresh water should always be available.53
Company who they like around
Enjoys its family's company without demanding constant attention, and copes well with being left for normal working hours. Generally mixes well with other cats, dogs and considerate children, and appreciates playtime and praise from its people.254
The story where it all began
Long-coated cats have lived in Norway's forests and farms for centuries, and the Norwegian word skogkatt ('forest cat') appears in old folk tales describing a fairy cat that could climb sheer rock walls. Their ancestors may have arrived with Viking ships around AD 1000, where cats were valued for keeping rodents down, and longhaired cats may later have been brought in by Crusaders. Harsh northern winters favoured cats with thick, water-shedding coats, which produced today's look naturally. Fanciers began to organise in 1938, when the first Norwegian Forest Cat Club was founded in Oslo. The Second World War set the effort back, as the landrace mixed with free-roaming domestic cats and nearly lost its identity, but the club's work afterwards helped rebuild it. Norwegian breeder Carl-Fredrik Nordane championed registration, and the breed was accepted by FIFe in the 1970s and recognised in Sweden in 1978. The first breeding pair reached the United States in 1979, CFA granted championship status in 1993, and in Britain the GCCF gave preliminary recognition in 1989 and championship status in 1997. It is now one of the most registered breeds in Europe.124
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The breed has been called Norway's national cat. Wikipedia and Purina UK credit King Olav V with naming it in the 1950s, while CFA dates the designation to the 1970s.1
2
Norse lore links these cats to Freya, goddess of love and beauty, who was said to favour them.2
3
Its hind legs are set noticeably higher than its front legs, which helps make it a powerful climber.6
4
It is a slow developer: it can take up to five years to reach its full adult size, and kittens may need around six months to grow their protective guard hairs.2
5
In 2024 it was the sixth most registered breed within FIFe, with 4,105 kittens registered, about 4.3% of the total.1
6
Many Wegies make soft, bird-like chirping sounds, especially when excited.2
7
FIFe's standard allows a special 'amber' colour in this breed, found in cats that would otherwise be black or blue.6
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed's name comes from its native Norway, where it is called 'Norsk skogkatt' or 'Norsk skaukatt,' meaning 'Norwegian Forest Cat,' reflecting its origins as a landrace breed adapted to the cold, forested regions of Northern Europe.7
Famous ones stars of the breed
Pan's Truls A male Norwegian Forest Cat whose photographs helped secure FIFe international recognition for the breed in the 1970s.8
I am the quiet king of the castle, surveying my realm from the highest shelf. After a morning of chasing a sunbeam, I found a cozy spot by the window, watching the birds with a hunter's eye. My human praised me, and I gave a soft chirp in reply. I enjoy company, but I am content in my own company too. When the family gathers, I join them, not on laps, but close enough to feel the warmth. In the evening, I play a short game of chase with a wand, then groom my majestic coat, ready for a peaceful night. I am the forest spirit, calm and strong.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FIFe
Fully recognised, Category 2 (code NFO); registered with FIFe in the 1970s9
CFA
Championship status 1993; first breeding pair reached the USA in 19792
GCCF
Section 2 (Semi-Longhair), Group 2; preliminary recognition 1989, championship status 19974
ACFA
Registered with the American Cat Fanciers Association in 19941
Popularity Sixth most registered breed in FIFe in 2024: 4,105 kittens, about 4.3% of registrations. Most popular in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland and France.1
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Norwegian Forest Cat. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery 2 days
Deshedding springBrush more while sheddingevery day
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayAbout 30 minutes of play a dayevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Cat-Friendly Pancakes
A simple, no-bake treat that is high in protein and low in fat, making it a suitable occasional reward for cats who gain weight easily.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water, no salt added
1/2 cup finely diced cooked chicken
1/2 cup pure sweet potato puree (no added sweeteners)
How
Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl.
Break the tuna into small bits with a fork.
Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
Slowly stir in the sweet potato puree until the mixture binds together, being careful not to make it too watery.
Shape the mixture into mini pancakes.
Serve to your cat as an occasional treat.
How much: Give small amounts occasionally, as treats should not exceed 10-15% of daily calorie allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Norwegian Forest Cat, and at what times?
Feeding frequency and times depend on your cat's age, activity, and the food you choose. Ask your vet for a schedule tailored to your cat, and always follow the portion guide on the food label.
What should a Norwegian Forest Cat eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a complete, balanced commercial cat food appropriate for your cat's life stage. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol; avoid raw meat, bones, and dairy. Always check with your vet for a full list.5310
Does a Norwegian Forest Cat need baths?
Baths are rarely needed; only bathe if your cat is very dirty or sticky. Regular brushing keeps the coat clean. Consult your vet if you're unsure.11
How often does a Norwegian Forest Cat need brushing?
A weekly comb-through with a stainless-steel comb usually keeps the coat tangle-free. During spring shedding, brush daily to remove loose undercoat. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every 2 days and deshedding daily.4253Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Norwegian Forest Cat's claws, and how often?
Trim claws every 2-3 weeks using proper cat nail clippers, cutting only the tip to avoid the quick. Start slowly, doing a few claws at a time. Furry Diary's plan suggests every 21 days.11Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Norwegian Forest Cat need?
This active breed needs daily interactive play, about 30 minutes per day, with wand toys and chasing games. Provide tall cat trees and shelves for climbing too.2534Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Norwegian Forest Cat's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily with pet toothpaste; Furry Diary's plan suggests every 2 days. For ears, check weekly and ask your vet for the best cleaning routine. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Norwegian Forest Cat live?
Norwegian Forest Cats typically live 8 to 16 years, with many reaching their teens with good care.354
Is a Norwegian Forest Cat good with children and other pets?
Yes, this breed is usually good with children, other cats, and dogs, especially in calm, patient homes. They enjoy company but are not clingy.24531
Can a Norwegian Forest Cat be left alone?
Yes, they handle being left alone for normal working hours well, as they are independent and enjoy their own company. Provide toys and climbing areas for enrichment.254
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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