Nebelung vs Selkirk Rex

Which cat breed is right for you?

Nebelung

Size
7–11 lbs
Lifespan
11–18 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Gentle Shy Loyal Quiet

Selkirk Rex

Size
6–16 lbs
Lifespan
15–20 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Patient Loving Playful Social

About the Nebelung

The Nebelung — German for "creature of the mist" — is a rare, elegant breed developed in the 1980s in the United States from longhaired Russian Blue-type cats. Weighing 7–11 pounds, this medium-sized cat has a long, graceful body, vivid green eyes, and a stunning blue-gray double coat with silver-tipped guard hairs that shimmer in the light. The dense, silky fur forms a noticeable ruff around the neck and plume on the tail.

Temperament & Personality

Nebelungs are gentle, reserved cats that form intense bonds with their chosen people but can be shy around strangers. They are creatures of routine — happiest when meals, playtime, and quiet hours follow a predictable schedule. Once comfortable, they are playful and affectionate, often following their favorite person from room to room like a silent blue shadow.

Pros

  • Stunningly beautiful coat with a distinctive silvery sheen
  • Quiet and calm — ideal for peaceful households
  • Deeply loyal and devoted to their family
  • Relatively healthy breed with few genetic issues

Cons

  • Extremely shy with strangers and slow to warm up to new people
  • Does not adapt well to changes in routine or environment
  • The long double coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangles
  • Very rare — difficult to find through adoption or rescue

If a serene, silver-coated companion speaks to your soul, search for Nebelung cats on Puplister and find your misty match.

About the Selkirk Rex

The Selkirk Rex originated in Montana in 1987 from a single curly-coated kitten found in a shelter litter and later crossed with a Persian. Unlike the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex, the Selkirk Rex has a full, plush coat of loose, tumbling curls — including curly whiskers. This is a medium-to-large cat weighing 6–16 pounds with a round head, full cheeks, and a sturdy, muscular build. They come in both longhair and shorthair varieties, in every color and pattern, with the longhair displaying the most dramatic ringlets.

Temperament & Personality

Selkirk Rex cats are patient, laid-back companions with a goofy, playful streak that persists into adulthood. They enjoy being held and cuddled but are not overly demanding of attention — content to amuse themselves when their humans are busy. Their tolerant nature makes them wonderful with children and other pets.

Pros

  • Unique, teddy bear-like curly coat that is irresistibly soft to the touch
  • Patient and tolerant — excellent choice for families with young children
  • Easygoing and adaptable to various living situations
  • Less intense grooming than expected — curls should not be over-brushed

Cons

  • Curly coat can trap oils, requiring regular bathing to keep skin and fur healthy
  • Prone to polycystic kidney disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from Persian heritage
  • Shedding can be significant — curly fur catches on furniture and clothing
  • Over-brushing straightens the curls, requiring a delicate grooming approach

Can't resist those adorable curls? Browse Selkirk Rex cats available on Puplister and find your curly-coated companion.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Nebelung and a Selkirk Rex?
The Nebelung is 7–11 lbs sized while the Selkirk Rex is 6–16 lbs sized. They differ in size (7–11 lbs vs 6–16 lbs), lifespan (11–18 years vs 15–20 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Nebelung or Selkirk Rex?
Nebelung is generally good with kids. Selkirk Rex is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Nebelung or Selkirk Rex?
The Nebelung has a lifespan of 11–18 years while the Selkirk Rex has a lifespan of 15–20 years.

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