Nebelung
United States
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–7 kg
- Life expectancy
- 15–18 yrs
- gentle
- reserved
- devoted
- quiet
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Nebelung
The Nebelung is an elegant, medium-sized cat with a semi-long blue-grey coat tipped with silver, giving it a misty shimmer. Its name comes from the German word for fog. It is essentially a longhaired cat of Russian Blue type, with green eyes and a plumed tail.
Temperament
Gentle, reserved with strangers and deeply devoted to their own people. Nebelungs like routine and quiet households, and may hide when visitors arrive while being affectionate and playful in private.
Play & activity
Moderate. They enjoy play and climbing but are not overly demanding.
Grooming
The coat is less prone to matting than many longhaired breeds, but brushing once or twice a week keeps it in good order.
Care & wellbeing
Sudden changes of routine can unsettle them, so introduce new people and pets gradually. They are generally healthy, but annual check-ups and weight monitoring are sensible.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 5 kg adult- Water
- 200 ml–300 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 280 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 20–30 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Nebelung
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The breed was developed in the 1980s in the United States by Cora Cobb from a longhaired blue male kitten born to a domestic cat. It was bred using Russian Blue type cats to fix its look. TICA and the WCF recognise it.
Health
The breed can be prone to
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Routine vet checks
Not every Nebelung is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 15–18 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Nebelung right for you?
Could suit
- Homes that can offer daily play sessions
- Owners ready for a long commitment — often well into their teens
Common questions
How big does a Nebelung get?
Adult Nebelungs typically weigh around 3–7 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Nebelungs live?
Typically 15–18 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Nebelung?
Expect to spend around 20–30 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Nebelung need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Nebelungs affectionate?
Usually friendly, with a balance of company and independence. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Nebelungs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Nebelungs good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Nebelung live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Nebelungs have?
The breed can be prone to generally healthy, weight gain if overfed, urinary problems have been mentioned anecdotally. Not every Nebelung is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.