Cat breed

Nebelung

Also known as: Creature of the Mist

A long-haired blue cat — shy at first, devoted once won over.

  • Gentle
  • Quiet
  • Shy
  • Affectionate
  • Loyal

The Nebelung is a semi-long-haired blue cat with silver tipping, related to the Russian Blue. The name means creature of the mist. Nebelungs are gentle, quiet and affectionate with their families, but often shy with strangers and sensitive to change.

At a glance

Origin
United States
Size
Medium
Weight
7–15 lb (3–7 kg)
Lifespan
15–18 years
Coat
Semi-long, silky, blue with silver tipping
Colours
Blue with silver tipping
Average cost
$55–$100 / month

Breed ratings

Rated 1–5 on the same scale as every other entry, so scores are comparable between breeds. Amber stars mark things that cost you effort rather than things that benefit you.

Energy level
Intelligence

Learns quickly and solves problems

Trainability
Affection

Wants close contact with people

Independence
Good with children
Good with other pets
Apartment friendly

Comfortable in a smaller home

Beginner friendly

Forgiving for a first-time owner

Shedding
Grooming needs
Noise level

Temperament

Nebelungs are shy with strangers but devoted to their families.

Care & upkeep

Exercise

Two 10–15 minute play sessions daily.

Grooming

Brush twice weekly.

Training

Respond well to calm, routine-based training.

Feeding & diet

Typical diet
High-protein wet-led diet
Daily amount
170–250 g wet food, or equivalent
Meals per day
2 meals a day

Measure portions and monitor weight.

Foods to avoid

  • Onion and garlic
  • Chocolate
  • Grapes and raisins
  • Raw dough
  • Milk

Who this breed suits

A good match for

  • Quiet households
  • Adult homes
  • Apartments

Probably not for

  • Noisy busy homes

Common health problems

This section describes conditions the breed is known to be predisposed to, so you know what to ask about. It is not veterinary advice and is not a diagnosis — always speak to a vet about your own animal.

  • Dental diseaseBrush teeth regularly.
  • Urinary issuesEncourage water intake with wet food and a fountain.

A healthy, long-lived breed.

Interesting facts

  • The name comes from the German word Nebel, meaning mist.
  • Developed in the 1980s from a long-haired kitten named Siegfried.
  • Closely related to the Russian Blue.

Diet & Feeding

Feed around 170–250 g of quality wet food daily across two meals. Monitor weight monthly.

Exercise & Play

Two 10–15 minute play sessions daily. Nebelungs enjoy gentle interactive play.

Grooming

Brush twice a week, more during seasonal shedding. The coat rarely mats.

Health & Vet Care

Generally healthy. Watch for dental disease and urinary issues. Encourage water intake.

Living with a Nebelung

Nebelungs prefer calm, routine-based homes and bond closely with one or two people. Give them time to adjust to changes.