How to Identify a Norwegian Forest Cat
To identify a Norwegian forest cat, look for a cat with a long coat and thick tufts of hair around its neck, face, and thighs. Also, look for a cat with almond-shaped eyes that are green, gold, copper, or blue. If its eyes are round, it might be a Maine Coone instead of a Norwegian forest cat. You should also look at the cat's legs and neck, which will be thick and muscular on a Norwegian forest cat.
Notice the long coat. One of the most distinguishing features of the Norwegian Forest Cat is their long, thick coat. They have a double coat that changes with the seasons. In winter, it can be extremely dense. They have tufts of hair around the neck, around the face, and along their thighs. Their ears have thick tufts of hair. There is also thick tufts between their toes. They have long fluffy tails. Look for large eyes. This breed has large eyes that are almond-shaped. Their eyes may be green, gold, or copper. If they are white cats, the eyes may be blue. Some white cats have mismatched eyes, where one is blue and the other is a different color. Many people get Norwegian Forest Cats confused with Maine Coons. The shape of the eyes is one of the features that distinguishes them. Wegies have almond-shaped while Maine Coons have round eyes. Expect a triangular-shaped head. The Norwegian Forest Cat has a very distinctive head. The head is triangular-shaped. The nose is straight, and they have flat foreheads. They have medium-sized ears with a rounded point. The head is another distinction between the Maine Coon and this breed. A Maine Coon has a more wedge-shaped head and higher cheekbones. Assess the body shape. Wegies are considered large cats, especially males. Males can range from 10 to 22 pounds, or five to ten kilograms. Females are generally around nine to twelve pounds, or four to six kilograms. However, they take longer to mature than other breeds, and may not reach full maturity until age five. The breed has heavy bones and is thick muscled. This combined with the large coat of fur makes them look even larger. The breed has a thick and muscular neck, and their legs are extremely muscular. The paws match the rest of the body. They are big and sometimes look oversized. Look for a variety of colors and patterns. This breed does not have one specific color. Instead, they come in a variety of colors and patterns. However, the most common colors and patterns are brown tabby and white. Expect an affectionate cat. Norwegian Forest Cats are loving cats that enjoy spending time with their humans. They are independent, so they will be in charge of when and how they get the affection. They love being near their humans, whether they choose your lap or nearby furniture. They have been known to follow their owners around the home. These cats are also very good with other pets and children due to their mild temperament. Look for hunter tendencies. This breed is descended from a line of hunting felines, and they still have this instinct. They will chase and stalk toys like they are prey. If presented with their favorite toys, this generally mild breed becomes much more excitable. They are obsessed with their toys. They particularly seem to like lights, like laser pointers. The breed is also very nurturing and territorial. You may find that they patrol your home throughout the day to make sure everything is okay. Watch for a love of high places. Wegies have a moderate activity level. They nap a lot with small bursts of activity through the day. When they are active, they love to climb high. When they're napping, they love to sleep on high platforms. Because this breed is strong and agile, they are excellent climbers. This cat will scale the tallest cat tree and cat shelves. They also love looking outside, so expect them to perch near a windowsill. Look for an interest in water. Norwegian Forest cats are one of the few cat breeds that enjoy water. They have a coat that repels water, and if they're given free reign near a water source, such as a stream or lake, they may try to catch a fish or two. Wegies have even been known to go for the occasional swim. Find a reputable breeder. Norwegian Forest Cats are not common breeds, so you may have to obtain one from a breeder. If you do this, find a reputable breeder. This cat can be expensive due to the fact that they are most commonly found in Norway. Many breeders travel to Europe to research the breed and obtain cats. Reputable breeders will provide health certifications. These will show that they screen for genetic health problems. Kittens will be raised at home with their litter and won't be isolated. Reputable breeders should also be able to provide pedigree papers for the parent cats, which prove that they are purebred Norwegian Forest cats. Start by checking cat breed websites, such as The Cat Fanciers' Association, The Fanciers Breeder Referral List , and The International Cat Association. Adopt a Norwegian Forest Cat. Try rescuing a Wegie through a rescue organizations, such as Rescue Me! and The Purebred Cat Rescue. Pet adoption websites may help you find a Norwegian Forest Cat you can adopt. You can also check your local shelter. Be patient. Finding a Norwegian Forest Cat can take time. Breeders generally don't allow kittens to be available until 12 weeks of age, and some wait until 16 weeks. This helps properly socialize the cat. If you want to adopt or rescue, you may need to continue searching for the right cat. 
Notice the long coat. Look for large eyes. Expect a triangular-shaped head. Assess the body shape. Look for a variety of colors and patterns. Expect an affectionate cat. Look for hunter tendencies. Watch for a love of high places. Look for an interest in water. Find a reputable breeder. Adopt a Norwegian Forest Cat. Be patient. 