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Val d'Isere to Introduce Cat Sledding next winter

Move over huskies, the Norwegian forest cats are coming to town!

featured in News & reviews Author Ellie Mahoney, Val d'Isere Editor Updated

Husky dog rides are one of the most popular winter activities to do in Val d'Isere each winter with people lining up to get a chance to drive a dog team with a sleigh.

Since this winter activity is so popular, and also on the back of the video of Jesper the cat (below) going viral, the powers that be in Val d'Isere came up with the idea that teams of Norwegian forest cats could increase the number of sledding trips they can offer each season.

These large and powerful cats are used to cold conditions, having been bred for their thick winter coats and resistance to the cold winters in Norway. The are much bigger in size than normal household cats (12-20 pounds or 5-10 kgs) with strong paws and claws, making them the perfect animal to pull a single person sled. It's anticipated that it would take a team of 10 cats to pull a sled.

The breed has been described as 'dog-like' and they have a strong need to be active, making them the perfect addition to next season's winter offer in Val d'Isere.

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