Cat Breed - Nebelung
About the Nebelung
Introduction: Nebelung - A Comprehensive Guide
Brief Overview:
The Nebelung is an elegant and rare breed known for its silky blue-gray coat, striking green eyes, and gentle, reserved nature. Often described as the longhaired cousin of the Russian Blue, the Nebelung combines regal beauty with a sweet, loyal personality, making them an ideal choice for cat lovers seeking a quiet, devoted feline companion.
Breed History
Origins:
The Nebelung breed originated in the United States in the 1980s. It began when breeder Cora Cobb noticed a kitten with a long, shimmering blue coat born from a black domestic shorthair and a Russian Blue-type father. Cobb named the first male kitten “Siegfried” and a later female “Brunhilde,” referencing Germanic mythology.
Realizing the uniqueness of these cats, Cobb developed a breeding program and worked with The International Cat Association (TICA) to create an official standard. The breed’s name comes from the German word “Nebel”, meaning mist or fog, a poetic nod to its ethereal appearance.
Physical Characteristics
Nebelungs are medium-sized cats with a distinctively long, dense, and shimmering coat. They look like a cloud of soft, silver-tipped blue fur with a dignified expression.
Body:
Medium build, muscular yet graceful
Long body with proportionate legs and a thick, plumed tail
Weight: 7–15 lbs, with males typically larger
Coat:
Semi-long, silky, and soft, with a double coat
Solid blue-gray with silvery tips on guard hairs, giving a frosty sheen
Dense ruff around the neck and fluffy tail, more pronounced in males
Head & Face:
Modified wedge-shaped head
Straight nose with a slightly concave curve
Prominent whisker pads, giving a rounded muzzle appearance
Eyes:
Vivid green, large, and slightly oval
Kittens may be yellow-green at first, deepening to green with age
Legs & Paws:
Long, slender legs with medium-sized oval paws
Paw pads are gray or lavender
Tail:
Long and fully plumed, matching the body length
Covered in flowing fur that adds to their elegant silhouette
Personality and Temperament
General Disposition:
Nebelungs are quiet, affectionate, and deeply loyal cats. They bond closely with their people and often become attached to one or two special humans.
Gentle and Reserved: They may be shy around strangers but are loving once trust is earned
Devoted and Affectionate: Enjoy companionship, often following their owners from room to room
Intelligent and Observant: Curious about their surroundings and responsive to routine
Playful but Not Demanding: They enjoy interactive play, but are calm and polite in seeking attention
Not Clingy: Appreciate independence and quiet spaces
They thrive in peaceful households and do best with consistent companionship.
Health and Lifespan
Nebelungs are a generally healthy and long-lived breed, with a lifespan of 13–18 years when well cared for.
Common Health Considerations:
No major breed-specific health issues
Some may inherit conditions from Russian Blue lines, but these are rare
Grooming Needs:
Brush 2–3 times per week to prevent matting and maintain silky texture
Bathing is rarely needed
Clean ears, trim nails, and brush teeth regularly
Diet and Nutrition:
Balanced, high-quality cat food—protein-rich is ideal
Watch portions to prevent weight gain
Ensure fresh water is always available
Exercise and Play:
Moderate activity level—enjoy interactive play but not overly energetic
Puzzle toys and feather wands are favorites
Prefer short, frequent play sessions to long, intense ones
Breed Standards
According to major cat associations like TICA and CFA, the Nebelung has distinct physical traits that define the breed.
Specific Standards for Nebelung Cats:
Body: Long, firm, and well-muscled with graceful movement
Coat: Medium-long, soft, and silky with a dense undercoat; solid blue with silver tipping
Head: Modified wedge with a flat forehead and straight nose
Eyes: Wide-set, almond-shaped, and intense green
Legs & Paws: Slender legs with oval paws
Tail: Long and plumed, matching the body length
Other Features: A mystical, shimmering appearance with an aura of quiet elegance
For official breed standards, visit:
Interesting Facts
They “Prairie Dog” Sit: Munchkins often sit upright on their hind legs, like meerkats, to get a better view.
Not as Fragile as They Look: Despite their stature, they are robust, agile, and playful.
Longhair Adds Elegance: The silky coat gives them a regal, fluffy appearance, resembling a miniature longhaired exotic breed.
They’re Full of Surprises: Many owners are surprised at how fast and energetic these cats can be.
They’re Still Rare: Though gaining popularity, Munchkin Longhairs are less common than their shorthaired counterparts.
