The Norwegian Forest Cat,
otherwise known as the Skaukatt, or Wegie Cat, is a natural breed of cat, occurring from natural adaptation to the cold temperatures of it's home region. Rumored to be the early ancestors of the Maine Coon and the long-haired Manx. A healthy breed, this cat was never viewed as anything more than a domestic house cat. It was in the late 1930's that the Norwegian Forest Cat was first shown and very much liked. It was World War II that put an end to this late start for the Show cat, and the breed was again forgotten. It was not until the 1970's that the breed was again recognized as a registered breed and accepted in the show circuit. The first to accept this breed for show was the FIFe organization, an international association, in 1977.
The Norwegian Forest Cat has a very thick and fluffy double-layered coat, tufted ears, and a long bushy tail, and a full lion's mane ruff of hair around the neck. In the colder seasons, the fully matured adult cat, shows a coarse outer layer and a dense underlaying thick coat making them almost waterproof. In the warmer season's this thick coat disappears and is replaced with a much thinner coat with only the tail remaining. This very large cat is very intellegent and playful, and they every much enjoy human companionship. Taking 3 to 5 years to mature, The males weigh in on average at 13 to 22 lbs or large. The females are approximately half the size of their mates. The dense bones and thick coat are what helps to make them seem so large and robust.
Like a Maine Coon, the Norwegian Forest Cats are very intelligent, robust and playful cats. They like the venture of the outdoors, are great hunters, and are well suited to cold climates. Dispite their love of the outdoor, they greatly enjoy the company of their human friends and family, as well as other pets and prefer not to be left alone, as they get very lonely too. They prefer the high vantage points of their surroundings and love to climb up to assess any situation. Not easily stressed and very patient animals, they are wonderful family pets and enjoy the play of children. Enjoying many head butts and belly rubs, they enjoy a nice evening of ear rubs and snuggles by the fire with a family member.
