Norwegian Forest Cats: The Pets of the Vikings

The “mystic wildcat of fairy tales” is quickly becoming a favorite family pet in Northern Europe. The Norwegian forest cat (or scogkatts in Norwegian) originated between 1500 and 4,000 years ago, as a result of natural selection.

But like their Viking kin, forest cats have a softer side. Weighing up to 16 pounds, their large size is mostly fluff. Up to 75% fur, they are the perfect kitty to cuddle with. They have a dense double coat, with a down-like layer underneath and a water-resistant wooley layer on top to keep them warm during the long, cold Nordic winters. Affectionately nicknamed "Wegies," the cats are unique among cats their size for their quiet calm demeanor. They are the largest domesticated cat in the world, other than Maine Coons, thought to be their descendants, which can weigh up to 25 pounds. "Wegies" are friendly, social and independent," says BasePaws.com: "While they highly appreciate the company of their favorite humans, they like to keep things in their own terms. They can be lap cats, but only when, where and with whom they want to cuddle. These kitties love to explore and they make for excellent climbers. If let to roam freely, they will often develop into very effective hunters."