History:
They are also known as "Eventyrkatten" which means "Fairytale Cat", which is most appropriate as it is in Norwegian Fairytales that many of the first references of Forest Cats can be found.

Some tales have described the Cats as "wood" or "forest" cats with thick, bushy tails. Possibly the first documented Forest Cat was in a children's book. The Norwegian author Gabriel Scott wrote a book in 1912 entitled "Solvfaks." The main character in this book is actually a Forest Cat that was called "Solvfaks."

The Norwegian Forest Cat as we know it today has developed through natural selection, as only the toughest cat, with the thickest waterproof coat, longest legs, etc. would be able to survive in Norway's harsh climate.

It was not until the 1930's that the Forest Cats were looked at with interest. But, with the outbreak of War, this interest was put on the back burner. In the early 1970's, interest was once again shown in the Forest Cats. By this stage it had become apparent that Forest Cats were facing extinction, and that if they were to be saved from disappearing altogether a specialised breeding programme had to be developed. In 1975, enthusiastic Norwegian breeders formed the Norsk Skogkattring (the first Norwegian Forest Cat Club).

Appearance:
The best description of a Norwegian Forest Cat is a large semi-longhaired cat, the most important features being type and coat quality. As the breed originated as a natural outdoor working cat on Norwegian farms, the appearance of the Norwegian Forest Cat should reflect this natural heritage. The cat should have an alert expression, be in good general condition and well presented.

The Norwegian Forest Cat matures slowly, and full development of the cat can take up to four years. The cats should be well built, and both the males and females have broad chests. The entire females can weigh between 8-12 lbs., and the entire males between 14-16 lbs. Neutered cats can weigh a few pounds more.

General Info:
The important thing to remember if you do keep you NFC's indoors is that they will need to be kept occupied and active. Not only will this benefit your cats, but it will also benefit your furniture! Ideally, they should have something to climb up and scratch on, a variety of toys to keep both their minds and bodies agile (an empty cardboard box is highly regarded), and if possible, a perch high up and out of the way that they can call their own and feel secure in.

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