With an imposing air and a large and very furry structure, the Norwegian Forest cat impresses anyone it meets. But don't let its size and appearance put you off, as this is a very sweet and friendly feline. So, if you like big cats with long, soft fur, read on to find out all about this breed.

First of all, the Norwegian Forest cat is an ancient breed that lived in the cold region of Norway. Incidentally, there are many Viking legends about its origin, and some believe that the Norse gods themselves brought the breed to us. Want to know more about cats of this breed? Then see more details below!

First of all, it is almost impossible to observe a Norwegian Forest cat and not know that it is a Norwegian Forest cat. This is because their large size attracts the attention of people, who are probably used to smaller and more delicate cats. However, there is no need to be scared, as this is a very affectionate and docile breed.

It is believed that the Norwegian Forest cat was on Viking ships, helping to control pests such as rats, for example. Although he was officially recognized by organizations only in the 1970s, the breed was already living in the cold regions of Europe much earlier.

Well, the specimens of the breed have a muscular and robust body, strong bone structure and long and thick hair. In fact, anyone who sees a Norwegian Forest Dog will have the impression that he is even bigger than he looks, due to his fluffy and soft fur.

In addition, its head is triangular, and the ears are medium, but it has a slightly rounded snout. As for their coat, cats of the breed tend to have a thick layer of hair, functioning precisely as protection against the cold. In addition, the pattern and coloring can vary greatly, with the exception of the colors of the Siamese.

Thus, the breed has specimens of solid and single color, but also accepts bicolors or piebald. Some of the color variations can include beige, brown, gray, and even coat with white spots scattered across the body.

If you've already fallen in love with the Norwegian Forest Cat and want to become the owner of a copy of the breed, then prepare your pocket. By the way, this breed is among the most expensive cats in the world, so if you find a cattery that is selling very cheap kittens, beware!

Furthermore, the value of a Norwegian Forest puppy can vary between R$3,000.00 and R$4,000.00. Thus, factors such as the sex and type of coat of the animal can influence the final price of the puppy. Also, look for a reliable breeder, because when buying animals with much cheaper value, you may be financing establishments that mistreat these animals.

Well, the Norwegian Forest cat is what we call a natural breed. That is, the breed emerged naturally and evolved over the years. In this way, cats of the breed may have genetic health problems such as dilated cardiomyopathy, where myocardial degeneration occurs and cardiac activity decreases.

In addition, he may also have a deficiency of glycogen enzymes, causing degeneration of skeletal muscles, and also a deficiency of pyruvate kinase. However, it is important to mention that all these diseases can be diagnosed through a DNA test requested by the veterinarian.

By the way, because they are hereditary diseases, it is also important to find a reliable breeding place, where you can meet the parents and grandparents of the puppy you are going to adopt. This way you can avoid surprises and you will be sure that your kitten is healthy. Thus, with veterinary monitoring and periodic examinations, your cat's life expectancy can reach 16 years.

So, because they are giant cats, the Norwegian Forest cat matures more slowly, reaching adulthood only 3 years after birth. Its size can vary between 30 and 35 centimeters in height, and it can weigh 9 kg! But be aware, overweight Norwegian Forest cats can have other health problems.

First, cats of this breed are docile, loving and playful animals. Incidentally, this may be the ideal animal to have in a family, as he loves children and attention and is very patient. As it has a slower evolution, it maintains its puppy personality for a few years, and will love to play with other animals, in addition to enjoying activities that develop its hunting instinct.

A curiosity about the Norwegian Forest cat is that these animals are passionate about aquatic environments. Therefore, if you live in the countryside and your cat has access to streams or lakes, he can bring you little gifts like small fish, for example.

Furthermore, due to its long and thick coat, a good brushing routine is very necessary to avoid matting. Therefore, aim to brush your Norwegian Forest cat at least three times a week. This frequency can increase to daily in changing seasons, such as spring.

In addition, the Norwegian Forest cat breed is a natural climber! Thus, it is important to have a good vertical space with scratching posts and shelves suitable for cats of this breed that tend to be larger than normal. Incidentally, it's important to provide games that stimulate your cat both physically and mentally, or he may end up becoming obese due to lack of exercise.

However, if you think that you might not adapt to a cat with such long hair and that needs more attention in terms of brushing, you can check out another breed option. Then see below all about the Peterbald cat, another hairless breed option!