Nebelung

Breed Overview

Introduction

The Nebelung, a name meaning “creature of the mist” in German, perfectly encapsulates the ethereal beauty of this captivating feline breed.  

With their shimmering blue-grey coats and striking green eyes, Nebelungs possess a distinctive elegance that sets them apart.  

However, beyond their regal appearance lies a personality that is both gentle and profoundly affectionate, making them cherished companions for those who understand their unique needs.

Breed History

The story of the Nebelung cat is a relatively recent one, beginning in the United States in the 1980s. This breed was meticulously developed by American breeder Cora Cobb of Nebelheim Cattery.  

The breed’s foundation was laid by two cats: Siegfried, born in 1984, and Brunhilde, born in 1985. These siblings, though from different litters, shared a unique appearance.  

Their mother was Elsa, a black domestic shorthair owned by Cobb’s son, Karl, and their father was a longhaired black Angora-like tom cat.  

Siegfried was the sole blue longhaired kitten in his litter, captivating Cobb with his beauty, medium-length coat, long legs, and tail. Five months later, Brunhilde, a female with an even longer and lighter blue coat, was born from the same pairing.  

These two became the progenitors of the Nebelung breed, having their first litter in 1986 and a second in 1987.

Cora Cobb, with the assistance of geneticist Dr. Solveig Pflueger, sought recognition for this new breed. The Nebelung’s breed standard was drafted based on that of the Russian Blue, with the primary distinction being the coat length.  

This close resemblance led to the Nebelung often being referred to as a “longhaired Russian Blue”. The development of the Nebelung was not a random occurrence but a deliberate breeding program by Cora Cobb to preserve these unique characteristics.  

The International Cat Association (TICA) was the first to officially recognize the Nebelung as an independent breed for championship competition in 1997. Other organizations, including the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) and the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), also recognize the breed.  

Despite this recognition, the Nebelung remains a rare breed, with breeders being described as “rare and exclusive”. This rarity suggests underlying complexities in its breeding program.  

For instance, Russian Blue outcrosses were designated to widen the new breed’s gene pool and reduce inbreeding while maintaining the desired coat qualities.  

The rarity is not just a market observation; it points to the complexities of establishing a new pedigree breed, especially one derived from a specific genetic mutation. This also means that finding a Nebelung kitten from a reputable breeder can be difficult and potentially costly.  

Physical Characteristics

The Nebelung is a cat of striking elegance, often described as a “creature of the mist” due to its shimmering coat. Its appearance is a harmonious blend of grace and athleticism, bearing a close resemblance to its Russian Blue cousins but with a distinctive long coat.

Nebelungs are medium-sized cats, typically standing 9 to 13 inches tall. Their weight generally ranges from 7 to 15 pounds. There is a noticeable size difference between sexes, with males averaging 10–16 pounds (4.5–7.3 kg) and females generally being more petite at 7–10 pounds (3.2–4.5 kg).

Some larger males have been reported to reach up to 20 pounds. Despite their fluffy appearance, they possess a long, slender, and well-muscled body, often described as having an hourglass shape when viewed from above.

They are sturdy and agile, reflecting their keen hunting instincts. These physical characteristics, along with tufted toes and pantaloons, suggest an adaptation for movement and outdoor activity, even if they are primarily indoor cats.

Their head is a modified wedge shape, more pointed than rounded, set atop a long, graceful neck. They have rather large, wide-set ears that are round-tipped, covered with short, fine hair on the outside and sparsely furnished inside.

The eyes are a standout feature: large, almond or slightly oval-shaped, and set wide apart. In adults, the eye color should be a vivid green, as deep as possible.

Kittens often have yellow eyes that gradually change, with a green halo appearing around the pupil by eight months, and the mature eye color can take up to two years to fully appear.

The hallmark of the Nebelung is its semi-long, soft, and silky double coat. The undercoat is fine, covered by thicker guard hairs, giving it a dense yet luxurious feel. The coat’s unique texture prevents easy matting, despite its length.

The color is an even, clear medium blue, with shimmering silver tipping on the guard hairs that creates a “silvery sheen” or “misty aura”, which gives the breed its name. This aesthetic quality is a significant draw for potential owners and a key differentiator from other blue-coated breeds.

Males often have a more developed ruff around the neck, and both sexes feature desirable feathering behind the ears, tufts of fur between their toes, and “pantaloons” (thicker fur) on their hind legs.

The fur on their long, plumed tail is typically longer than that on their body. The adult coat can take up to two years to fully develop.

Behavior and Personality

The Nebelung cat’s personality is a captivating blend of quiet grace and profound affection, making them truly unique companions. While their regal appearance might suggest aloofness, they are, in fact, deeply loving and loyal to their chosen humans.

Nebelungs are renowned for their affectionate, sweet temperament and soft voices. They form incredibly strong bonds with their human family members, often choosing one or two favorite people to whom they become intensely devoted.

They love to be close, happily following their humans from room to room, sitting on laps, and enjoying extensive cuddling, petting, and brushing. Their affection is deep and unwavering once trust is established.

Their quiet nature does not mean they are independent or do not need interaction; rather, they prefer a gentle, consistent approach to companionship, making them ideal for owners who appreciate a less boisterous but deeply connected feline friend.

A defining trait is their shyness and reservation around unfamiliar people. They may appear shy at first and take time to settle and feel confident in new surroundings.

Nebelungs thrive on predictability and routine. Any disruption to their environment or daily schedule, such as changes in work schedules or moving to a new house, can cause them stress and anxiety.

The consistent emphasis on their sensitivity to “noise and bustle”, stress from “change”, and preference for a “quiet household” is not merely a preference; it is a critical factor that can lead to “behavior problems such as inappropriate toileting and self-harm”.

This causal link between environmental stress and negative behaviors underscores that providing a stable, calm, and predictable environment is a fundamental requirement for a Nebelung’s well-being.

They generally get along well with other cats, particularly other reserved breeds, and can live happily with older, quiet children.

However, they may prefer to be the only pet or find dogs a “harder sell” due to their quiet nature. They are excellent pets for adults and seniors who can provide a stable, calm home.

Care Guide

Diet

Nebelung cats, like all felines, are obligate carnivores and require a high-quality, protein-rich diet. Their diet should be rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.

High-quality wet or dry cat food, with meat or fish as the primary ingredient (at least 60% human-grade meat/fish), is essential to provide the necessary amino acids.

Due to their long coats, Nebelungs can also benefit from gut-friendly foods with prebiotics/probiotics and dental treats formulated with ingredients like slippery elm bark to help with digestion and prevent painful hairballs.

Exercise

Despite their calm demeanor, Nebelungs are active and playful cats that require consistent physical and mental stimulation to stay healthy and content. They enjoy interactive play sessions that mimic hunting behaviors, such as stalking and pouncing.

Daily engagement with their human companions for a few minutes each day is highly appreciated and keeps them physically and mentally engaged. This is not just about burning calories; it is about fulfilling innate behavioral drives.

Owners need to understand that providing toys and climbing structures is critical for their mental and physical well-being.

Nebelungs have an instinctual need to jump and climb. Providing cat trees, high perches, shelves, and other climbing structures allows them to survey their surroundings, feel secure, and satisfy their natural agility.

They also enjoy chasing and batting at track toys. Some Nebelungs can be leash-trained with a proper harness, offering a safe way to explore the outdoors and get additional exercise.

Environment & Enrichment

Nebelung cats thrive in a calm, predictable, and enriching home environment that caters to their sensitive nature and intelligence.

They are highly sensitive to noise, bustle, and sudden changes. A stress-free, quiet household with a predictable routine is ideal.

Frequent visitors or loud environments can cause anxiety, leading to behavioral issues like inappropriate toileting or excessive grooming.

Providing high perches, cozy hideaways, and cat trees allows them to survey their surroundings from a secure vantage point and retreat when feeling overwhelmed or shy, especially around strangers.

While adaptable to indoor living, especially apartment life, they are energetic and appreciate mental stimulation and ample exercise.

If outdoor access is desired, it should be in a secure garden or “catio” to protect them from hunting risks, theft (due to their striking appearance), and extreme weather conditions, as their silky coat is not very weather-proof.

Grooming

Despite their luxurious semi-long coats, Nebelung cats have relatively manageable grooming needs, though regularity is key. Their double coat is soft, silky, and does not tend to mat easily.

However, regular brushing is essential to keep it in top condition. Brushing a few times a week, or a full comb-through once a week, helps remove loose hair, reduces shedding, and prevents hairballs.

Mental Stimulation

Nebelung cats are highly intelligent and require consistent mental stimulation to prevent boredom and ensure their overall well-being.

Engaging them in daily interactive play sessions that mimic hunting behaviors is important. This can include wand toys, laser pointers (with caution to ensure a “catch” at the end), and toys that encourage stalking and pouncing.

Intelligent cats like Nebelungs thrive on challenges. Food-dispensing puzzle toys or hiding kibble around the house can appeal to their natural hunting instincts and provide mental enrichment during meal times.

Their intelligence makes them receptive to training. They are known to learn tricks, respond to commands, and can even be leash-trained, offering another avenue for mental and physical engagement.

Positive reinforcement techniques, like clicker training, work well. Providing high vantage points like cat trees, shelves, or window perches allows them to observe their surroundings, satisfying their curiosity and need for security.

Health Concerns

Is This Breed Right for You?

FAQ

What is a Nebelung?

The Nebelung is a distinctive cat breed known for its elegant appearance, featuring a semi-long, soft, blue-grey coat with shimmering silver tips and vivid green eyes. The name “Nebelung” is German for “creature of the mist,” referring to their misty coat. They are often informally called “longhaired Russian Blues” due to their close resemblance and shared ancestry.  

What is their temperament like?

Nebelungs are gentle, sweet, and incredibly affectionate with their family members, often forming strong, loyal bonds with one or two chosen humans. However, they are typically shy and reserved around strangers and prefer a quiet, predictable environment. They are intelligent and playful but generally quiet, expressing themselves more through body language than vocalization.  

What color are Nebelung cats?

Nebelungs come in a single, solid color: a clear, even medium blue. Their guard hairs are tipped with silver, which gives their coat a beautiful, shimmering, misty appearance. Their eyes are typically a vivid green in adulthood.  

Do Nebelung cats like to cuddle?

Yes, Nebelung cats love to cuddle with their human family members. They are known for being affectionate lap cats and will happily sprawl out beside you or on your lap, purring contentedly. They are very loving once they trust you.  

Do Nebelung cats talk a lot?

No, Nebelungs are generally quiet cats and are not known for being highly vocal. Unlike some chatty breeds, they are more likely to express themselves through subtle vocalizations or body language.  

Are Nebelung cats expensive?

Pinpointing the exact cost can be tricky as the breed is quite rare. Nebelung kittens typically range from $600 to $1,200 from breeders. Many people find Nebelung mixes or look-alikes at shelters, which can be a more budget-friendly alternative.  

Are Nebelung cats hypoallergenic?

No, Nebelung cats are not considered hypoallergenic. Like all cat breeds, they produce the Fel d 1 protein, which is the primary allergen found in their skin, saliva, and urine.  

How often do Nebelung cats need grooming?

Nebelungs require regular grooming to maintain their semi-long double coat. Brushing them a few times a week, or a full comb-through once a week, is recommended to prevent tangles and mats, remove loose hair, and reduce shedding and hairballs.  

How do I know if my cat is a Nebelung?

True Nebelungs are slender cats with long, silky, blue-gray hair that plumes at their tails and have vivid green eyes. They are also known for their quiet and reserved nature, often seeking companionship on their own terms. For official recognition, a cat would need to meet breed standards set by organizations like TICA. For most people, identifying a Nebelung might be more about recognizing the phenotype (long blue-gray hair, green eyes, specific temperament) rather than obtaining certified pedigree papers, given the breed’s rarity and limited official breeding programs. This guides potential owners towards managing expectations regarding breed purity and encourages adoption from shelters as a viable option.  

Bonus Facts

Beyond their core characteristics, Nebelung cats hold several intriguing facts that deepen their mystique and appeal.

The name “Nebelung” is derived from the German word “Nebel,” meaning “mist” or “fog.” This directly refers to their silky, soft, blue-grey coat, which seems to hang around them like a misty aura due to the silver tipping on their guard hairs.   

Nebelungs are known for their impressive longevity, often living 16 years or more, with some individuals reaching up to 18-20 years. This speaks to their robust health as a breed.  

Many Nebelung owners report that their cats exhibit dog-like loyalty. They often bond intensely with a single person in the family, following them devotedly from room to room and preferring to spend most of their time with their chosen human. This challenges the perception that a quiet cat is a less engaging one.  

Nebelungs are described as excellent communicators. While not overly vocal, they will subtly but effectively let their owners know if something is amiss, especially regarding their litter box cleanliness or food preferences. The Nebelung has gained some recognition in popular culture, having been featured on the Animal Planet show.  

Cats 101, and a Nebelung is one of the animals that can be given as a Patronus in the personality test on Pottermore.  

References

“Nebelung”. www.petmd.com. Retrieved 2022-11-14.

“Nebelung: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care”. The Spruce Pets. Retrieved 2022-11-14.

“Nebelung”. Petfinder. Retrieved 2022-11-14.

TICA Nebelung breed standard, 2004. https://tica.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nb.pdf

“Nebelung”. TICA – The International Cat Association. Retrieved 2025-05-19.

“American Cat Fanciers Association”. www.acfacat.com. Retrieved Aug 26, 2021.

kd-deuter. “WCF – World Cat Federation”. wcf-online.de. Archived from the original on 2018-06-12. Retrieved 2014-02-04.

“LOOF – Actualités”. loof.asso.fr. Archived from the original on 2011-04-23. Retrieved 2014-02-04.

“Nebelung”. GCCF. Retrieved 22 September 2023.

Cats 101: Nebelung. Animal Planet. Retrieved 19 January 2013.

“Pottermore’s Patronus quiz: Complete animal list”. 2016-09-22. Retrieved 2016-09-22.