The history of the norwegian forest cat

The Norwegian Forest Cat is truly a natural breed and really does originate from Norway. The exact origins of the Forest Cats will never be precisely established, but one thing is certain: NFCs can be found in Norwegian folklore, where it is said that these cats were the family pets of the Vikings. As early as the sixteenth century such cats were described as being large, with long legs, big ruffs and ear tufts. Just like the Forest Cats of today, they had a particular liking for water, with the ability to catch fish in lakes and streams.
In some folk tales they are referred to as the "Fairy Cat" - it is easy to imagine them appearing supernatural as they flitted amongst the trees with their long, elegant bodies and flowing, bushy tails.

The Norwegian Forest Cat as we know it today has developed through natural selection, as only the toughest cats with the thickest waterproof coats and other special features would be able to survive in Norway's harsh climate. However, they probably crept in to keep warm by the farmers' hearths when they could, and have always been known to like being around people.
Eventually, as the remote areas of Norway became more heavily populated the breed was in danger of dying out, so a special breeding programme began.
Since then the breed has gone from strength to strength and is now extremely popular in many countries, particularly Scandinavia, where as many as 200 Norwegian Forest Cats can be seen at a cat show, second only to the Longhairs.

A Skogkatt is a family member, like most cats. It is often a bit reserved with strangers, but usually gentle, friendly cats. Most are not lap cats. Maybe just as well, the males can weigh 10 kg. Head-bumping and chin-scratching is of course a must, but with some restraint - you don't have to pet them _all_ the time. He'll tell you, quietly, when it is needed.