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Questions to Ask a Norwegian Forest Cat Breeder Before You Buy (2026)

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Finding a reputable Norwegian Forest Cat breeder is the most important decision you'll make as an NFC owner. Here's the complete checklist — every question you should ask before committing to a deposit.

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Health Screening Questions

GSD IV Genetic Testing

Do you test breeding cats for Glycogen Storage Disease Type IV (GSD IV)?
Can I see GSD IV test results for both parents?
Are both parents clear, or are any carriers?

GSD IV is a genetic condition specific to Norwegian Forest Cats. Reputable breeders test all breeding cats and avoid pairing two carriers. This is non-negotiable. See: Norwegian Forest Cat Health Problems

HCM Cardiac Screening

Do you screen breeding cats for HCM annually?
Who performs the screening — a board-certified cardiologist or a general vet? (Cardiologist is the standard)
Can I see current cardiac screening results for both parents? (Results should be dated within 12 months)
Have any cats in your breeding program ever been diagnosed with HCM?

Health Guarantee

What health guarantee do you offer?
What does it cover and for how long?
What is the process if a kitten develops a genetic condition?

Breeder Practice Questions

Are your cats TICA or FIFe registered? Can I see the registration papers?
At what age do you release kittens? (12–16 weeks is standard)
Are kittens vaccinated before going home?
Are kittens microchipped before going home?
Do you require a spay/neuter contract for pet-quality kittens?
Can I visit your cattery in person or see a video call of where kittens are raised?
Do you have a waitlist? How long is it currently?
How many litters do you produce per year?
How many breeding cats do you have?

Kitten Socialization Questions

How are kittens socialized — exposure to children, dogs, handling, different people, noise?
Are kittens raised underfoot in the home or in a separate cattery space?
Have any kittens been introduced to a harness or carrier?
Which kitten in the litter would you recommend for an active/adventure household?
What is each kitten's individual personality like?

For what to look for in an adventure-suitable kitten, see: Norwegian Forest Cat Temperament and Are Norwegian Forest Cats Good Outdoor Cats?

Red Flags to Watch For

❌ No GSD IV test results — non-negotiable for this breed
❌ Reluctance to share HCM screening results
❌ No TICA or FIFe registration
❌ Kittens available immediately with no waitlist
❌ Kittens released before 12 weeks
❌ Unable or unwilling to show you where kittens are raised
❌ Price significantly below market ($800 or less)
❌ Pressure to decide quickly or pay a deposit before you've asked questions

What a Reputable Breeder Will Ask You

A good NFC breeder interviews buyers as thoroughly as you interview them. Expect questions about your living situation, experience with cats, other pets, your plans for the cat's lifestyle, and whether you're prepared for the breed's grooming needs. If a breeder asks nothing and just takes your deposit, that's a red flag.