The Norwegian Forest Cat is majestic indeed!
This breed is prized for its looks and personality, but it doesn't come without disadvantages!
Stick with us to find out the Norwegian Forest Cat's pros and cons, and we'll start with
the good part!
Number 1: They're always by your side without being demanding.
The Norwegian Forest Cat is super curious and wants to be part of everything you do.
This cat loves spending time with its owners and will do that without being pushy.
Number 2: Norwegian Forest Cats are intelligent!
They're quick to learn what different words mean and can easily learn tricks.
It's also said they can tell how you're feeling, coming to comfort you when you're sad!
Number 3: They're not afraid of water, as their coats are water repellent!
Most Norwegian cats will happily dip their paws in their water bowls, making a total
mess at times!
Some even learn how the faucet works, while others join their owners in the shower!
Number 4: Norwegian Forest Cats are great even if you have other pets, dogs included.
These cats crave companionship and prefer to have a furry companion!
Introducing them to other pets should be fairly easy if you follow the appropriate steps.
Number 5: They're big kitties!
Large cats have a certain undeniable appeal.
These cats aren't only large; they're also beautiful!
Their long, fluffy, dense coats and wise gaze can surely charm anyone!
Number 6: They're playful and goofy and never grow out of it!
Norwegian cats love to make their people smile and never refuse a playtime session!
Number 7: Norwegian Cats are laid-back and patient with kids, toddlers included.
In fact, they prefer a boisterous household where there's always something going on!
And, of course, their playful nature makes them great companions for your older children.
Number 8: They're not afraid of adventures!
The Norwegian Forest would love to accompany you on your walks around the neighborhood,
especially if you start when your cat is young.
And who knows, maybe even on your hiking trips!
Number 9: Norwegian kitties are relatively easy to groom.
Despite their long and dense coats, they only need to be brushed weekly.
That’s what I’ve learned from my research, but if your Norwegian cat's fur is high-maintenance,
please let us know in the comments!
Norwegians make brilliant companions for sure, but let's also discuss their disadvantages
to see the whole picture!
Number 1: They can be too active for the average person.
If you're busy or work most of the day away from home, it's best to look for another,
less energetic cat.
Number 2: The Norwegian Forest can become mischievous if bored.
This cat will quickly learn how to get your attention, from chewing electrical cables
to throwing things on the floor.
That's why it's crucial to be sure you can properly care for its needs before getting
one.
Number 3: They need large homes.
Since Norwegian kitties are large and energetic cats, they should only live in big houses.
That's a bummer, I know, but we should put the well-being of our pets first.
Number 4: They can develop some severe health issues, including HCM.
HCM causes the progressive thickening of the heart's left ventricle and can lead to sudden
death.
The condition isn't curable, but the medicine can prolong the affected cat's life if detected
early enough.
Even a kitten born to healthy parents can develop it, as HCM cannot be detected through
genetic tests.
On the plus side, accredited breeders screen their cats yearly against many health issues,
preventing affected cats from mating.
That's why I highly suggest staying away from backyard breeders.
There are other concerns for this breed which I discuss in this video:
Number 5: Norwegian Cats shouldn't be left alone for too long; otherwise, they can become
depressed or destructive.
If you don't work from home, you should ensure your Norwegian kitty has a furry companion.
Number 6: They might need walks or catios to be happy, as they're pretty active and
large.
Leash walks are a great alternative if you don't have the space for a catio.
If you're unable to offer your Norwegian kitty a safe outdoor experience, a good idea would
be to choose the most mellow kitten from the litter or look for a less energetic cat.
Still, the breeder will surely provide more insight on the subject.
Number 7: Norwegian Forest cats aren't considered a great choice for people allergic to cats.
Unfortunately, there's no truly hypoallergenic cat breed, but some do better than others.
Norwegian kitties aren't known for producing fewer allergens than other cats, and they
have a dense coat.
Males typically produce more allergens, which is another thing to consider.
The good news?
You can manage to live with a cat even if you're allergic, provided your allergy isn't
severe.
Still, you'll need to consult with your doctor before getting a cat if that's the case.
Number 8: They're not suited to live in hot climates.
If summers are scorching hot where you live, you'll need to keep an average temperature
in your house.
Also, it's a good idea to limit your cat's outdoor access when the sun is the hottest.
Number 9: They're not that easy to come across!
Norwegian Forest cats are super popular in Europe, but they're harder to find in the
US.
You can still get one if you look hard enough.
But let's not end things on a negative note!
There's more to this amazing breed, and you can learn even more about the Norwegian Forest
Cat in this one-oh-one video:
See you there!