The Nebelung, a graceful feline with its silver coat and piercing gaze.
The Nebelung, a Silvery Mist
The Nebelung is a relatively young cat breed, whose appearance recalls a long-haired Russian Blue type cat. Originating from the United States, it is recognizable by its magnificent semi-long, silky, and uniform blue-grey coat, with silver tips that give it a mysterious and shimmering look. Its eyes are an intense green and its silhouette is elegant and muscular.
This feline is appreciated for its gentle, calm, affectionate, and reserved temperament. It is loyal to its family and enjoys quiet interactions, making it an excellent companion for those seeking a serene yet devoted presence.
Our Feline Specialist's Advice
By the CatName.com team, published on October 15, 2025.
My personal tip : The Nebelung's semi-long, dense coat is relatively easy to maintain. Brushing two to three times a week is sufficient to prevent tangles and maintain its silvery sheen. This is an intelligent cat that appreciates calm games and gentle interactions. It needs a stable and predictable environment. It can be shy with strangers but is very loyal and affectionate towards its family. Make sure to provide it with a safe space where it can retreat and feel secure.
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Identifying the Nebelung: Characteristics of its Coat and Silhouette
The Nebelung is distinguished by its shimmering blue-grey coat and emerald eyes.
The Nebelung is a medium-sized cat, elegant and athletic. Its physical characteristics are very distinctive.
Size: Medium-sized cat, with a muscular and slender body.
Coat: Semi-long, dense, soft, and silky, of a uniform blue-grey with silver tipping. The undercoat is as long as the guard hairs, giving it a plush appearance.
Head: Wedge-shaped (triangular), with a straight profile and a strong chin.
Eyes: Large, almond-shaped, of a vivid and intense green. Kittens are born with yellow eyes that turn green with age.
Ears: Large, broad at the base, slightly pointed, well-spaced.
Tail: Long and well-plumed, proportional to the body.
Dimensions and Key Information (Nebelung)
Characteristic
Male
Female
Average
Size (at shoulder)
25 – 30 cm
20 – 25 cm
20 – 30 cm
Weight
3 – 5 kg
2.5 – 4 kg
2.5 – 5 kg
Life Expectancy
15 – 18 years
15 – 18 years
15 – 18 years
Diet
Strict carnivore
Strict carnivore
High-quality kibble and wet food
Litter Size (kittens)
-
Variable
Generally 3-6
These figures indicate that the Nebelung is a medium-sized cat, often long-lived, and its growth is completed around 1 year of age.
Behavior: Elegant, Reserved, and Affectionate
The Nebelung is a cat breed of mysterious beauty, often considered the semi-longhaired version of the Russian Blue, sharing its magnificent silvery blue-grey coat and luminous green eyes. Its name, meaning "creature of the mist" in German, refers to its ethereal appearance. It is a cat with a gentle, calm, and sensitive temperament, deeply bonding with its family but remaining reserved and shy towards strangers.
Nebelungs are affectionate companions who appreciate the serenity of their home and quiet moments spent with their humans. They are not very vocal, preferring to express themselves with soft trills rather than loud meows. Their intelligence allows them to learn quickly and adapt to apartment living, provided they have a stable and loving environment. Their gentle nature and patience make them excellent companions for calm and respectful families.
While not hyperactive, Nebelungs enjoy interactive games that stimulate their minds and bodies. Their semi-long coat requires regular brushing to maintain its beauty. If you are drawn to an elegant, calm, and loyal cat, the Nebelung is an excellent choice. For similar temperaments and blue coats, the Chartreux and the Korat are other charming options. For short-haired cats with a robust appearance but a gentle character, the British Shorthair is a good alternative. Finally, if you appreciate semi-longhaired cats adapted to cold climates, the Siberian also offers a majestic and affectionate presence.
Origin and History
The history of the Nebelung began in the 1980s in the United States. The breed is the result of the work of Cora Cobb who, after having two kittens from a short-haired black domestic cat and a long-haired Russian Blue type cat, decided to create a new breed. These two kittens, Siegfried and Brunhilde, are considered the founders of the Nebelung.
The goal was to develop a cat breed that combined the elegant type of the Russian Blue with a semi-long coat. The name "Nebelung" comes from the German "Nebel" (mist) and "ungen" (creatures), in reference to their misty coat and the legend of the Nibelungs. The breed was officially recognized by TICA in 1987 and continues to gain popularity for its beauty and temperament.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Nebelung
What is unique about the Nebelung's coat?
The Nebelung has a semi-long, dense, soft, and silky coat of a uniform blue-grey with silver tipping. This coat gives it a shiny and ethereal appearance, without tangling easily.
What is the temperament of the Nebelung?
It is a calm, gentle, affectionate, and reserved cat. It is loyal to its family but can be shy with strangers. It loves routine and a tranquil environment, and is known for its soft and melodious voice which it rarely uses.
Is the Nebelung hypoallergenic?
While no cat is 100% hypoallergenic, many people allergic to cats tolerate the Nebelung better because it produces less Fel d 1, the protein responsible for allergies, and its double coat traps allergens more effectively.
How long can a Nebelung live?
The average life expectancy of a Nebelung is generally long, ranging from 15 to 18 years, with proper care and a balanced diet.
Does the Nebelung need a lot of attention?
The Nebelung is a cat that loves the company of its family and needs affection, but it is not demanding. It prefers calm interactions and tender moments, and appreciates a stable environment.
