We reviewed top foods for Norwegian Forest Cats, focusing on high protein, moderate fat diets with joint support and omega fatty acids. Royal Canin Indoor Adult leads.
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Best Overall: ROYAL CANIN Feline Health Nutrition Indoor Adult Dry Cat Food. Specifically formulated for Norwegian Forest Cats, with a unique kibble shape designed for.
Best Premium: ORIJEN Grain Free WHOLEPREY Dry Cat Food Original Recipe 4lb. Bag. High protein, grain free recipe with free run chicken, turkey, and wild caught fish.
Best Value: Wellness CORE Adult Dry Cat Food. High protein, grain free, with glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
Best for Sensitive Needs: Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Dry Dog Food. Formulated for senior Norwegian Forest Cats (age 7+) with natural sources of glucosamine a.
Editor Pick: Purina Pro Plan AdvantEDGE Digestive Support Plus Salmon and Oat Meal. Salmon as first ingredient provides high quality protein and omega 3 fatty acids for coat.
Are you wondering what to feed your Norwegian Forest Cat to support its large, sturdy frame and thick double coat? Our editorial team has researched the best cat foods tailored to this breed’s specific needs, including joint health, long fur maintenance, and preference for high quality animal protein.
Norwegian Forest Cats are a slow maturing, large breed that can be prone to hip dysplasia and heart disease, so we focused on foods with balanced nutrition, omega fatty acids for coat health, and appropriate calorie density to avoid obesity. Below are our top picks based on ingredient quality, nutritional profiles, and brand reputation.
Why this matters
We found that Norwegian Forest Cats thrive on high protein, moderate fat diets with added joint support and omega fatty acids. Breed specific formulas can be beneficial but are not necessary if the food meets these criteria.
The Options
Types Explained
Dry Kibble
Convenient and cost effective, dry food helps with dental health through crunching. Choose large kibble designed for big jaws to promote chewing.
Wet Canned Food
Provides extra moisture for hydration and urinary tract health. Can be mixed with dry food for added palatability and variety.
Freeze Dried Raw
Offers minimally processed nutrition with high protein and fat content. Rehydrate before feeding to ensure moisture intake. Suitable for owners seeking a raw diet approach.
The Rankings
Top 5 Picks
#1
Best Overall
ROYAL CANIN Feline Health Nutrition Indoor Adult Dry Cat Food
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Specifically formulated for Norwegian Forest Cats, with a unique kibble shape designed for their strong jaw and large size. Includes nutrients for bone and joint support, plus omega 3 and 6 for coat health.
ORIJEN Grain Free WHOLEPREY Dry Cat Food Original Recipe 4lb. Bag
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High protein, grain free recipe with free run chicken, turkey, and wild caught fish. Rich in omega fatty acids from whole prey ingredients, ideal for maintaining a thick, healthy coat.
High protein, grain free, with glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. Priced affordably while providing quality meat proteins and omega fatty acids for coat condition.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Dry Dog Food
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Formulated for senior Norwegian Forest Cats (age 7+) with natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, plus vitamin E and omega 6 for skin and coat. Balanced minerals support kidney and heart health.
Purina Pro Plan AdvantEDGE Digestive Support Plus Salmon and Oat Meal
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Salmon as first ingredient provides high quality protein and omega 3 fatty acids for coat and joint health. Contains no corn, wheat, or soy, and added probiotics for digestive health.
Norwegian Forest Cats are carnivores with a need for animal based proteins. Look for named meats like chicken, turkey, or fish as the first ingredient to support lean muscle mass and energy levels.
02
Omega Fatty Acids for Coat Health
Their thick double coat requires omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for shine and reduced shedding. Foods with fish oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat help maintain coat condition and reduce hairballs.
03
Joint Support Nutrients
As a large breed prone to hip dysplasia, glucosamine and chondroitin are beneficial. These ingredients help maintain cartilage and joint mobility, especially in older cats.
04
Appropriate Calorie Density
Norwegian Forest Cats have a slower metabolism and can be prone to obesity. Choose foods with moderate calorie content and avoid overfeeding; portion control is key.
05
Kibble Size and Shape
Their large jaw and strong teeth benefit from oversized kibble that encourages chewing and reduces plaque. Some brands offer breed specific shapes for this purpose.
06
Taurine and Essential Nutrients
Taurine is critical for heart and eye health. Ensure the food meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages, with adequate taurine levels to prevent deficiencies.
Living With It
Care, Cost and Maintenance
Feeding Schedule
Feed adult Norwegian Forest Cats twice daily. Avoid free feeding as they tend to overeat. Adjust portions based on activity level and body condition.
Hydration
Encourage water intake by providing a cat fountain or multiple water bowls. Wet food can also boost hydration, which is important for kidney health.
Transitioning Foods
When changing diets, mix new food with old over 7 to 10 days to avoid digestive upset. Norwegian Forest Cats can have sensitive stomachs, so gradual changes are best.
Pro tip
Our team suggests incorporating a rotation of high quality canned and dry foods to provide variety and ensure adequate moisture intake. Always check the ingredient list for named meat sources and avoid artificial additives.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I feed my Norwegian Forest Cat?
Portions depend on age, weight, and activity level. As a general guideline, adult Norwegian Forest Cats need about 250 to 350 calories per day from a high quality food. Check the feeding guide on the package and adjust to maintain a lean body condition.
Can Norwegian Forest Cats eat grain free food?
Yes, grain free food can be a good option as it often contains higher protein and fewer fillers. However, there is no evidence that grains are harmful to Norwegian Forest Cats unless they have a specific allergy. Choose based on your cat's individual tolerance and nutritional needs.
Do Norwegian Forest Cats need joint supplements?
Many large breed cats benefit from glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health, especially as they age. While not always necessary, choosing a food with these ingredients can be helpful. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency
How we made this guide
How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Cats, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.
How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.
Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.
