The existence of the Norwegian Forest Cat has been recorded as far back as 1200 AD, and possibly as early as 800 AD. The Norwegian Forest cat has remained popular throughout history and was even named the official Cat of Norway!

The Norwegian Forest Cat, also known as the "Skogkatt" in Norway and called "Wegie" by some Americans, is well known for his wonderful personality. This cat is friendly, gentle and very social! They are reported to do very well in homes with children, and also seem to enjoy a house that is brimming with movement. They also do very well with other house pets. These cats are extremely loving and affectionate and withhold their affection from no one, whether they are man or beast. In addition to their loving personalities, the Norwegian Forest Cat is described as being very tolerant and patient with those around them. The Norwegian Forest Cat does not stress easily. One thing to bear in mind if you decide to bring one of these cats into your home - they love to climb! It is imperative to have climbing places for them. In addition, they adore being up high; hence, tall climbing structures are strongly recommended. This way, the curious and intelligent Norwegian Forest Cat can keep an eye on the world that surrounds him. Some owners report that the Norwegian Forest Cat is talkative and enjoys communicating with his human family members. They are also adept hunters. The Norwegian Forest Cat makes an excellent addition to most any home, provided you have the time to give your Forest Cat all the love it will so willingly bestow upon you.

In addition to having a beautiful personality, the Norwegian Forest Cat is also blessed with a handsome appearance. They have medium length, heavy, thick coats which have allowed them to do quite well in the severe winters of Norway. The differences between the winter coat and the summer coat can be quite striking. Their coats are accepted in a wide range of colors and patterns. It should be noted that the Norwegian Forest Cat is not accepted in pointed patterns. One thing to bear in mind, their coats do need frequent brushing during their shedding season, which normally occurs in the spring. The head of the Norwegian Cat is triangular, and their faces clearly display their wonderful personalities. Atop their head, sits two wide set ears. The eyes of this cat should always be almond shaped; accepted colors can range from gold to green to hazel. The most common eye color, however, is bright emerald green decorated with gold bands. The Norwegian forest cat is relatively large and quite sturdy. They have a beautiful plumed tail, with additional tufts found on their feet and ears. A hallmark of this cat's appearance is his beautiful mane, which generally does not develop until they are fully mature. The Norwegian Forest Cat is a slow maturing cat and does not attain true physical maturity until five years of age. The mane may be lost during shedding for spring, but do not despair, it will return!

The exact origin of the Norwegian Forest Cat is shrouded in the clouds of time. This should not come as a surprise since the Norwegian Forest Cat has been in existence for centuries. Sadly, with many ancient breeds, much of the history is lost. Some theorize that they originated in Europe, while others hold they originated in the forests of Norway. Some further theorize that the Norwegian Forest Cat originates with Turkish Angoras and Siberians; again some dispute this theory. The Norwegian Forest Cat has been the subject of much poetry and folklore in Norway. Some theorize that they traveled with early Viking explorers on ships, as working cats keeping each ship free from rodents. It is further theorized that the Norwegian Forest Cat might have seen North America as early as the days of Lief Erickson! Though, their modern introduction to the Americas was not to occur until 1979. Surprisingly, it was not until 1993 that these beauties were accepted by the American CFA for championship status.

The Norwegian Forest Cat requires climbing places. Without them, it may not be not be content. During the shedding season they will require frequent grooming, though during the rest of the year grooming requirements are minimal. This breed may be prone to glycogen storage disease.

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