Norwegian Forest cats grow to almost double the size of normal domestic moggies, with fully-grown toms measuring about 3ft in length.
The super-size breed has seen a recent surge in popularity, with breeders putting their popularity down to their hardy nature.
They effectively sport two coats – a furry, thermal undercoat to keep them warm – and a ‘rain coat’ to keep out ice and sleet.
It makes them ideal mousers suited to harsh Scottish winters.
Owner Mandy Round, 51, from Crook of Devon, Perthshire, has installed a huge cat flap for her four Norwegian Forest cats, Whisper, Co Co and kittens Zak and Harry.
She said: “They are roughty-toughty pets with all the qualities you might expect in cats who survive in the wild Norwegian forests.
“Having a Norwegian Forest Cat is a bit like owning a dog.
“Whisper waits at the front door to welcome us home. She chases the squirrels but never catches any.”
Vikings arrived in the UK with them around 1,000 years ago but interbreeding weakened the pure blood line.
The breed was revived by the Norwegians, and sales of kittens – which cost £500 – are now proving brisk on UK websites.
“They make great pets but do go to a registered breeder,” said Mandy.
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