There is often a misconception among people that cats don’t like to cuddle and are happier on their own most of the time. However, that isn’t always the case, especially for the Norwegian Forest Cat which is known to enjoy cuddles and petting even though their large size doesn’t make them lap cats.
Every breed of cat is different. Some cats will be happy to lie in your arms for hours on end. Others prefer to watch their humans from afar and receive the occasional pet. For those that enjoy it, they will let you know with their soft purrs and constant need for attention.
Read on to find out why cats like to cuddle and if your Norwegian Forest Cat will curl up on your lap.
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Why do cats cuddle?
Cats enjoy cuddles for the same reason that humans do. It makes them feel warm and safe, which are important things for a cat to feel at home. There are three main reasons why cats like to cuddle:
For warmth
If there’s a chill in the air, cats will try to find somewhere warm for them to sleep. You might notice that they gravitate towards a patch of sunlight or lie beside the radiator. They will also cuddle with humans because your body temperature can help to keep them warm as they nap.
For protection and safety
When kittens are young, they will often sleep close to one another for protection. The same is true when they are older and seek out to cuddle their owner instead. If your cat sleeps in your arms or lies on your lap, it means that they trust you to keep them safe.
To bond
Cats depend on their owners to keep them safe, warm and to give them food. All these things build affection and some cats will want to cuddle to show that they love you.
Will my Norwegian forest cat cuddle me?
Norwegian Forest Cats are not as wild as their appearance will make you believe. While they have a strong build to make them good hunters, they are also sweet and gentle animals. Once they are comfortable around people, they are very affectionate and enjoy human companionship.
While they might be a little too big to sit on your lap, they will enjoy cuddling up to you while you stroke them. This will help to strengthen the bond between you both once they trust you. Their thick fur also makes them perfect to cuddle and keep you both warm in the winter months.
Even though Norwegian Forest Cats can enjoy cuddles, they still like to have a place that is their own. A high perch on a cat tree will remind them of being out in the wild and provide a safe place for them to go.
How can I make sure my cat enjoys cuddles?
One of the best ways to make sure your cat enjoys cuddle time is to not force it on them. Allow them to come to you and make them as comfortable as possible. This could include getting a soft blanket or pillow for them to lie on next to you.
It is also a good idea to make cuddling part of their routine when they are young. The environment a cat is brought up in will be essential in deciding whether the cat will be cuddly or prefer to be on their own. When a cat is handled a lot as a kitten, it is shown to become more social and confident when they are older.
A cat is more likely to cuddle when they feel safe around you, which is why it is important to give them love and respect. Cuddling is healthy for a cat to help reduce stress and anxiety, as it promotes the synthesis of oxytocin in the brain. This is the sometimes known as the ‘hormone of bonding’.
Frequently Asked Questions About Norwegian Forest Cats
What is their personality like?
Norwegian Forest Cats are known for their gentle personalities. While they might be shy around people they don’t know, they are sweet and loving with the people they trust. They enjoy human companionship, which makes them perfect for cuddling up to.
They are also quite playful, as it takes five years for them to mature and reach full adulthood. This will provide you with many hours of entertainment, whether it’s watching them zoom around the house or playing with their favourite toys. These cats often retain their hunting nature, so they will pounce on toys as if they are real animals.
How big is a Norwegian Forest Cat?
In the world of cats, the Norwegian Forest Cat is one of the larger breeds. They are built for hunting, which means they have strong bones and muscles, as well as thick coats. A male cat can reach up to 16 or 18 pounds, and a female cat can reach up to 12 pounds. They have long and sturdy bodies, as well as long legs and a bushy tail that makes them noticeable.
How do I groom my Norwegian Forest Cat?
While they have long fur, they are easy to look after. They will need grooming at least once a week with a good quality brush to get rid of any tangles. Most people who own this breed prefer to use a wire bristle brush or comb. If your cat ventures outdoors, you might need to brush them twice a week.
Overall, Norwegian Forest Cats are quite good at grooming themselves and keeping themselves clean.
Make Cuddle Time Enjoyable for Your Norwegian Forest Cat
Due to their kind and gentle nature, the Norwegian Forest Cat will enjoy cuddling and they are definitely built for it with their thick fur. They might be a little too big to sit on your lap, but they will enjoy curling up next to you and having you stroke them. It will also help to strengthen the bond between you.
