Norse forest cats were once the companion of Vikings and are often referred to as " warrior cats . " If you ’re not familiar with this large , fluffy strain , there ’s a lot to learn about their history , personality , and quirks . We narrowed our favorite Norwegian forest guy facts down to our top nine , and we guarantee a few of them will shock you .
1. Norwegian Forest Cats Are a Lesser-Known Breed
If you have n’t heard of the cats of the Norwegian forest before , you ’re not alone . Even though the breed first made its North American debut in Leif Erickson ’s day , they did n’t " officially " get in in the USA until 1979 . It ’s believed that this distinctive Arabian tea is actually one ascendent of the famousMaine common racoon computed tomography .
2. They Are BIG Cats
There ’s definitely a hard resemblance between the Maine coon and the Norse forest cat , but Norwegians are a bit lowly . Still , they’reway bigger than a normal house cat . These stunning cats weigh up to 20 pounds on modal , though some get even big .
3. The Breed Originated in Norway
As the name implies , this stock actually go in the forests and villages of Norway , where it perfectly adapt itself to the chilly environs . In the 1950s , King Olav V even named them the official kat breed of Norway .
4. The Norwegian Forest Cat’s Fur Is Water-Resistant
Norwegian forest cats have coats that are incrediblythick and pee - resistant . This was a necessary characteristic they adapted to survive in the abrasive Norse winter . Even their ears are treat with distinctive tussock of hair hold out from the tips and internal ear flaps that make them resemble a small Lynx . Their pes hold thick tussock of fur between the pads to protect them from snow and ice rink .
During the warmer months , these cats quickly dangle their undercoat , so they are heavy spiller .
5. Forest Cats Are Hunters
You ca n’t ignore the fact that these cats have strong hunting instincts , especially if there are smaller positron emission tomography in the home , such as birds and rodents . Make certain these little pets are appropriately house for their own base hit !
Along with being hunters , Norse forest Caterpillar are also raw mounter , so it ’s a very good idea to provide them with an indoorcat tree . That way , they can get plenty of exercise and rest themselves gamy , as they often love to do .
6. They Absolutely Adore People
Forest cats are people lovers andlike to spend time lying close to you . That say , they are n’t really " lap CAT " because they ’re incredibly active and athletic . Make certain your Norwegian forest cat has plenty of outlets for their energy , then they ’ll come to you for a nap when they ’re tuckered out .
7. Forest Cats Are Nicknamed the “Wedgie”
Many people dear bring up to Norse forest cats as " wedgies . " We do n’t know where this soubriquet came from , but it ’s moderately darn cute .
8. They’re a Magical Part of Norse Mythology
According toNorse mythology , Freya , the goddess of love and birthrate , ride a chariot pulled by huge , tenacious - haired cat . There were also wizard queen cat , who were likely based on the Norwegian wood quat . How cool ? !
9. Forest Cats Come in Endless Colors & Patterns
Although you ’re probably used to visit tabby Norwegian forest CAT , this breed comes in oodles of different colors and patterns . you may retrieve them with calico coloring , pure smuggled , all bloodless , red , ointment , blue , and even tortoiseshell butterfly .
Norwegian Forest Cats Are Special
Whether you ’re just hearing about the Norse forest cat for the first time or you ’re a foresighted - time lover of this breed , it ’s easy to see why these cats are so magic . They have a unique history , personality , and appearance . We ’re so glad the forest Caterpillar is still around .
