This is a very old breed, who have lived in the forests of Norway for thousands of years and played a part in Norse mythology.  In the early 1970'a a group of Norwegian cat fanciers formed a group to try to preserve this breed called Skaukatt in its homeland.  In 1979, the first breeding pair were imported to North America.

The fur of the Norwegian is semi-long and the double coat consisting of a wooly undercoat covered by a smooth water repellent outer coat.  The ruff of a mature cat frames a strong-chinned, intelligent face with almond-shaped expressive eyes.  The ears are large, tufted and lynx-like tip tufts are desirable.  This is an easy care coat that requires only moderate grooming.

The general appearance of the Norwegian is that of an alert, healthy, well developed, muscular cat.  The body is of moderate length, heavily boned and powerful.

These large friendly cats have people loving personalities and adapt well to almost any household.  Their robust constitution makes for a long, healthy life.