The protagonist of the bestselling children’s picture book “the Cat Who Lived a Million Times” features a tabby cat, who lived through a million reincarnations. He had once served as a sailor’s cat that travels around all seas and ports!

In Norse mythology, Freya, the daughter of the sea god Njord, governs war, love, wealth, and gold. Legend has it that Freya drives a golden chariot pulled by two cats, traversing both heaven and earth in search of her beloved husband. These two cats are none other than the noble “Norwegian Forest Cats,” known for their robust build and natural double-layered fur—one layer for warmth and another for wind and water resistance, making them one of the most cold-resistant cat breeds.

In the real world, the Norwegian Forest Cat indeed accompanied the Vikings on their conquests. From the 8th to 11th centuries, it marked the heyday of the Viking Age, a period in European history when Viking pirates ranged from the British Isles in the north, France to Eastern Europe in the west, and as far south as Italy.

As the ship cats of the fierce Vikings, they not only dealt with the rodent problem on board but also provided a crucial secondary function during long, monotonous voyages—comforting the crew. With just a bit of affection from these ethereal-looking feline masters, the sailors would instantly perk up and continue rowing with determination, a vital side role for these cats!

For all you cat lovers, you’re welcome to visit the Evergreen Maritime Museum to take a closer look at the “Viking Longship,” where these feline masters once conquered the seas!