The older Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest Cats are large, sturdy cats with thick coats that require regular grooming throughout their senior years. Senior from 10, geriatric from 14.
Senior from
10 yrs
Geriatric from
14 yrs
Life expectancy
12–16
Checkups
Every 6 mo
Life stages
Average lifespan 12 to 16 years. Many Norwegian Forest Cats live well past it with good care and regular blood tests.
- Kitten0–1
- Young adult1–6
- Mature adult7–9
- Senior10–13
- Geriatric14+
Worth watching in Norwegian Forest Cats
Common in the breed, not certain. Mention them at the next visit.
Hip dysplasia
Stiffness after rest, bunny-hopping, reluctance on stairs.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
A thickened heart muscle, often silent. Ask about a heart check.
Glycogen storage disease
A rare inherited condition. Weakness or collapse deserves a check.
Kidney disease
Drinking and peeing more, weight loss, poor appetite. Blood and urine tests pick it up.
Food
- A senior cat food; wet food helps with water.
- Watch the weight, up or down. Both matter in an old cat.
- Several water bowls around the house.
- Ask about kidney-friendly diets if bloods change.
- Small meals more often if appetite drops.
Exercise and comfort
- Short play most days; let them set the pace.
- Low-sided litter trays, easy to reach.
- Steps or a ramp to the favourite spots.
- Gentle brushing when grooming slips.
- Vet visits every six months. Hiding more can be pain.