How Much Does A Norwegian Forest Cat Cost? 2024 Price Guide
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Loving, long-haired, and incredibly large, the Norwegian Forest Cat is one of the oldest types of domestic cat breeds. Highly stunning, this fluffy cat is renowned for its thick, full coat and gorgeous face. Nicknamed “Wegies” by breed fanatics, the Norwegian Forest Cat makes an amazing pet.
But exactly how much does the Norwegian Forest Cat cost to own? Will you break the bank caring for this purr-fect pet? Here’s everything you need to know about the costs of owning a Norwegian Forest Cat.
Bringing Home a New Norwegian Forest Cat: One-Time Costs
When you’re on the hunt for a reputable Norwegian Forest Cat breeder, it’s helpful to know that this breed goes by several different names, including the Skogkatt, Wegie, and Norskogkatt.
The price of a Norwegian Forest Cat kitten will fluctuate depending upon the number of litters available and demand. Typically, the cost of a Norwegian Forest Cat kitten from a high-quality breeder falls between $600 and $1,200. If the kitten is of show quality, be prepared to pay more than if she is of pet quality. You may also be asked to put down a $100 deposit to reserve your new kitten.
Free
While Norwegian Forest Cats are on the pricier side, it is still possible to scoop up this gorgeous breed for free. If a person can no longer take care of their cat, they may choose to surrender it. You can visit your local animal shelter or search the internet for a free Norwegian Forest Cat that’s up for adoption. Be careful, however, because there are numerous online pet scams.
Adoption
$50–$200
One great option for getting a Norwegian Forest Cat is to adopt one from your local animal shelter. Depending upon the age of the cat, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 in adoption fees. These fees will cover spaying or neutering and updated vaccination shots.
Breeder
$600–$1,200
Be prepared to shell out a lot more money if you decide to purchase a Norwegian Forest Cat kitten from a breeder. When you buy a kitten from a responsible breeder, the price will often include a one-year replacement guarantee if the kitten develops any sudden diseases, a health guarantee, health records, care instructions, and a copy of both parent cats’ pedigree. A $100 down payment may also be required.
Never buy a Norwegian Forest Cat kitten from a kitten mill. These low-scale breeding facilities churn out kittens and sell them for appealingly low prices. However, kittens from these bad breeders often suffer from a myriad of health issues, including eye conditions, parasites, and mange.
Initial Setup and Supplies
$450–$1,200
Besides the price of the kitten, you’ll need to spend a handful of initial expenses to provide the ideal environment for your new Norwegian Forest Cat. These costs can range between $450 and $1,200 and cover initial vaccinations, spaying/neutering, a litter box, litter, food, a carrier, a scratching post, a bed, micro-chipping, food and water bowls, toys, flea and tick prevention, and nail trimmers. Keep in mind that while these are one-time costs, you’ll be spending money to keep your Norwegian Forest Cat happy and healthy throughout her entire life.
List of Norwegian Forest Cat Care Supplies and Costs
| ID Tag and Collar | $20 |
| Spay/Neuter | $25–$200 |
| X-Ray Cost | $100–$300 |
| Ultrasound Cost | $150–$400 |
| Microchip | $45 |
| Teeth Cleaning | $200–$500 |
| Bed | $10–$50 |
| Nail Clipper (optional) | $10 |
| Brush (optional) | $10 |
| Litter Box | $15–$80 |
| Litter Scoop | $10 |
| Toys | $30 |
| Carrier | $40 |
| Food and Water Bowls | $10–$30 |
How Much Does a Norwegian Forest Cat Cost Per Month?
$55–$500 per month
After you pay for all of the initial supplies and services, you can expect to pay between $55 and $500 per month to properly care for your Norwegian Forest Cat. These monthly costs will cover health care, food, toys, and additional expenses. A Norwegian Forest Cat can live for up to 18 years. Are you ready for this lifelong investment?
Health Care
$10–$50 per month
To keep your Norwegian Forest Cat in tip-top shape, you need to give her monthly doses of preventative flea and tick medication. This can either be done topically or orally. Preventative treatments for cats can cost between $10 and $20 per month. It’s also wise to set aside some money every month to help cover unexpected emergencies. Try to put at least $10 to $30 each month into an emergency pet fund.
Food
$20–$40 per month
A Norwegian Forest Cat needs high-quality cat food to live her best life. A large bag of premium cat food can cost between $20 and $40 per month. It might be a bit more if your cat is put on a vet-recommended prescription diet.
Grooming
$0–$100 per month
The Norwegian Forest Cat has a thick, full coat that needs to be regularly brushed and groomed. You can also opt to take your kitty to a professional groomer a couple of times per year. A typical grooming session can cost up to $100 and includes bathing, brushing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning.
Medications and Vet Visits
$0–$160 month
While a generally healthy breed, the Norwegian Forest Cat can develop some health issues later in life including hip dysplasia and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. As such, it’s important to take your cat for bi-annual vet appointments. Routine wellness visits can cost up to $160 per visit.
Environment Maintenance
$20–$50 per month
Over time, you’ll need to update your Norwegian Forest Cat’s environment. You may even need to repair your belongings if your kitty scratches up your furniture. You may also want to scoop up some pet deodorizing sprays to neutralize litter box odors and keep your home smelling fresh and clean. New scratching posts, litter liners, litter, and furniture repairs can cost you between $20 and $50 per month.
| Litter box liners | $10/month |
| Deodorizing spray or granules | $10/month |
| Cardboard Scratcher | $30/month |
Entertainment
$5–$60 per month
Just like you, your Norwegian Forest Cat needs plenty of playtime to keep her mind engaged. Be sure to provide your feline friend with fun and interactive pet toys. You may need to buy new toys for her every few months in case she has destroyed her old ones. Cat toys can run you between $5 and $60 per month, depending on how many you buy and the quality of the toy.
Total Monthly Cost of Owning a Norwegian Forest Cat
$55–$500 per month
On the low side of the spectrum, a Norwegian Forest Cat can run you about $50 per month. Depending upon her veterinary, grooming, and entertainment needs, you might occasionally pay as much as $500 in a single month to care for your cat.
Additional Costs to Factor In
Additional costs to consider when owning a Norwegian Forest Cat include pet sitting or boarding. Boarding your cat can cost about $50 to $80 a day. A pet sitter will come to your home to care for your pet and can cost about $50 per daily visit.
Owning a Norwegian Forest Cat On a Budget
With some help, you can own a Norwegian Forest Cat on a budget. Find a local low-cost clinic for your kitty’s needs. Pet insurance can drastically lower your vet bills and costs about $40 per month.
Saving Money on Norwegian Forest Cat Care
Low-cost vet clinics, pet insurance, and grooming your cat at home can all save you money on your Norwegian Forest Cat’s care costs.
Conclusion
A Norwegian Forest Cat is a great pet for any household. However, as with any animal, it costs money to provide your kitty with a happy and healthy home. From initial costs to monthly expenses, your Norwegian Forest Cat is a huge investment. If you’re prepared to take the plunge, this kitty will shower you with love and affection for many years to come.
See also:
- Norwegian Forest Cat vs Domestic Long Hair: What’s the Difference?
- Ragdoll vs Norwegian Forest Cat: Pictures, Differences, and What to Choose
Featured Image Credit: Elisa Putti, Shutterstock
