The black Norwegian Forest Cat is — by a significant margin — the most searched NFC colour variation in the world. Searches for “black Norwegian Forest Cat” and related terms generate over 50,000 monthly searches globally. If you’re drawn to this stunning, solid-black version of the breed, here is everything you need to know.
Black NFC at a Glance
Recognised by FIFe, TICA and CFA · Coat: dense, solid black, with glossy guard hairs · Eyes: typically gold, copper or green · Price premium: 10–20% over standard tabby · Registration code: NFO n
The Black Norwegian Forest Cat Coat
A true black Norwegian Forest Cat has a solid, uniform black coat from root to tip, with no tabby striping or white hairs. In sunlight, the dense guard hairs of the topcoat produce a distinctive gloss — almost metallic — that makes the black NFC one of the most visually striking domestic cats in the world.
The black colour is produced by full expression of the eumelanin pigment in both coat layers. The NFC’s double coat means there is a lot of pigment on display: the woolly undercoat is dark grey to black, and the longer guard hairs of the topcoat are pure black.
Black Smoke: A Common Confusion
Many people searching for “black Norwegian Forest Cat” are actually looking at black smoke NFCs — which look black overall but reveal a pale, silvery undercoat when the fur is parted. This is a different genetic profile but equally beautiful. Solid black and black smoke are registered separately and priced similarly.
| Colour | Appearance | Genetics | FIFe Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Black | Uniform black, root to tip | aa + non-silver | NFO n |
| Black Smoke | Black with silver undercoat | aa + silver inhibitor | NFO ns |
| Black Tabby | Black with tabby pattern | Agouti gene active | NFO n 22/23/24 |
| Black & White | Black with white patches | Piebald spotting | NFO n 09 |
Personality: Does Coat Colour Affect Temperament?
No scientific evidence supports a consistent relationship between coat colour and personality in Norwegian Forest Cats. The Skogkatt temperament — observant, loyal, moderately active, dog-like in attachment — is consistent across colours. Colour is purely a cosmetic trait.
Price of a Black Norwegian Forest Cat
Black NFCs typically command a 10–20% premium over standard brown tabby cats from the same breeder, due to demand. Expect to pay:
- USA: $1,000–$2,200 (pet quality)
- UK: £900–£1,700
- Australia: AUD $1,400–$2,800
- Black smoke may be priced slightly higher due to the additional visual appeal
Finding a Black Norwegian Forest Cat
Because demand is high, waiting lists for black and black smoke NFC kittens are longer than for some other colours. Steps to find one:
- Contact your national breed registry (TICA in the USA, GCCF in the UK) for a list of registered breeders
- Join the NFC breeder community on Facebook — many breeders announce litters there first
- Be prepared to wait 6–18 months from a reputable breeder
- Check Petfinder.com for black NFC rescues — they appear occasionally
Frequently Asked Questions
My Norwegian Cat Editorial Team
My Norwegian Cat Editorial Team publishes practical, research-based guides about Norwegian Forest Cats, including breed information, kittens, breeders, adoption, price, colors, food, grooming, health and responsible ownership. Our goal is to help future and current owners make informed decisions about finding, caring for and living with a Norwegian Forest Cat.