The Marquis Came In From the Cold With Snow Still in His Fur
Warm candlelight picks out every strand of the Norwegian Forest Cat's thick brown coat, from the tufts on the tips of his ears to the long ruff around his chest. His amber eyes are bright and alert, set in a striped face with a soft pink nose. A wide ruffle of white lace frames him like a collar of snow, and his green velvet coat is stitched with gold leaves. The background fades into a deep, toasty brown, as if the rest of the room has been tucked away in shadow. He is a marquis who looks at home in any weather.
Norwegian Forest Cats come from the cold north, and their coat shows it. They have a thick, water-resistant double coat that needs regular brushing, especially during seasonal shedding, to prevent mats. They are big, sturdy cats that love to climb, so a tall, sturdy cat tree is a great investment. Many are gentle and friendly, and they often take a few years to reach full size. Because they are large, a healthy weight matters for their joints, so ask your vet about portions and play. Keep them indoors or safely supervised, and offer plenty of fresh water.
The marquis seems perfectly content, surveying his estate with a calm, regal gaze. If the snow starts to fall, he will be the one cat in the house who truly does not mind, and he will probably spend the evening by a warm window.
