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Norwegian forest catsWhere the Norwegian forest cat originally came from is debatable, but some believe the breed originated from the longhaired cats brought back to Scandinavia from England by the Vikings in 700 AD, and the shorthaired cats brought to Europe by the Crusaders. Others believe the cats were brought from Turkey, Spain, Africa and Russia by Vikings returning from trade expeditions to the Byzantine East. Wherever they came from, these cats interbred, forming the breed we know today as the Norwegian Forest Cat. But why bring a cat all that way? Originally it was not for the love of the creature, but for its notorious use to man: to protect grain stores on land and sea against rats and mice. Now, centuries later, these large, friendly cats keep the townsfolk and isolated farmers company – and still do a pretty good job with the rat population. When people moved to the cities in the mid 1900s, the Norwegian Forest Cat - now no longer needed - came under serious threat. A few `Skogkattring’ enthusiasts worked hard to save the breed from extinction by developing a special breeding program In 1930 the Norwegian Forest Cat was officially recognised as a breed in Norway. By 1938 the first cats appeared in shows. Not long afterward, in 1975, their breeders’ association was formed and the official breed standard was recognised. To top all this off, the Norwegian King Olaf designated the breed the Official Cat of Norway. So what is so special about them? These creatures are large and have a solid bone structure; robust but elegant. They are well-muscled but not stocky. Males weigh between 5 and 10 Kgs, while females weigh between 4 and 8 Kgs. They have triangular heads, strong chins, pricked ears set low on the head to prevent heat loss and large, almond shaped eyes. They are very pretty cats, striped and streaked with smoky greys, tans, cream and silver, shaded and tipped. Norwegian Forest Cats are not afraid of water and are known to enjoy a bit of fishing and not turn a whisker at a mild shower of rain as their thick inner coat of fur keeps their skin dry. Adventurous, playful and gentle, these felines make excellent household pets. They enjoy being inside as much as being out, but must have an outdoor area to explore and enjoy. Grooming is not a problem. Although the fur is thick and longish, it does not require daily brushing. Once or twice a week is usually sufficient, however coats should be regularly checked for thorns or twigs which may become snagged and irritate the skin.
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The seafaring cats of old, and their Viking masters, must have had many adventures on the sailing ships!