Nibelung

History of the Nibelung breed

The Nibelung is a young breed: its first representatives were born in the second half of the last century. The reason for this is an accident: in 1980, the son of programmer Cora Cobb received a black shorthair cat as a gift. Over time, a new favorite of the family named Elsa got together with russian blue cat . The result of this union was the birth of five babies in 1984. Among them, only one was distinguished by an atypically long blue coat. This baby became a favorite of Cora Cobb, who decided to name the pet Siegfried (Sigurd) – in honor of the hero of the medieval German epic "The Song of the Nibelungs".

In 1985, history repeated itself. This time, a baby with a longer and lighter coat than her "predecessor" was born in the litter. The cat was christened Brunhilda, again borrowing the name from a German-Scandinavian source. Since Miss Cobb was fascinated by the beauty and character of the already grown-up Siegfried, she decided to check whether it was possible to preserve this genotype not only within the litter, but also something more – for example, a new breed. To do this, the woman crossed two long-haired pets. This adventure bore promising fruit in 1986: Brunhilda gave birth to three kittens who fully inherited their unusual appearance from their parents.

Inspired by the result of the crossing, Cora Cobb turned to the International Cat Association (TICA), wanting to establish the possibility of creating a breed with the help of geneticists. Specialist Solveig Pfluger came to the conclusion that Siegfried and Brunhilda are long–haired representatives of Russian blue cats. Together with Miss Cobb, the geneticist took up the development of the breed standard. His final version caused a wave of indignation among TICA members and breeders of Russian four-legged beauties. The reason was that there was only one difference between the standards of the blue cat and, perhaps, the new breed: the length of the coat. In order to avoid conflict, Dr. Pfluger revised the requirements for the exterior of the offspring of Siegfried and Brunhilda. This led to the official recognition of cats by the TICA Association in 1987.

Representatives of the breed were called Nibelungs. According to one version, this word was borrowed from the name of the medieval German saga Nibelungenlied (the names of Cora Cobb's pets also come from there). Another theory says that the name of cats comes from the German word nebel – fog. Indeed, the similarity with this atmospheric phenomenon can be traced in the bluish-silver color of the animals.

Russian blue cats were recognized as an outcross for the Nibelungs, which allowed them to be crossed to improve the breed. The gene of long hair, which periodically manifested itself in generations of blue beauties, was a valuable material for breeding Nibelungs. He also became a stumbling block: the breeders of Russian cats refused to recognize the new breed and contribute to its development. This complicated the breeding of animals, and Cora Cobb was forced to look for a way to continue the Nibelung line.

Luck smiled only in 1988: the owner of the Russian blue cat – the bearer of the title "Supreme Grand Champion" – offered his help. The male was crossed with a female from the litter of Brunhilda and Siegfried. This led to a further increase in the number of Nibelungs. In 1995, the new breed was recognized by other major feline organizations: the Cat Lovers Association (CFF), the World Cat Federation (WCF), the American Cat Lovers Association (ACFA). Independent federations of the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium are no exception. In 1997, TICA allowed the Nibelungs to participate in exhibitions.

Gradually representatives of the breed spread all over the world. The history of their appearance in Russia is interesting, namely in the Krasnogorsk nursery "Winter Day". In the litter of two blue cats, a single baby with a long coat appeared. She was so different from her parents that the nursery staff would not have been able to determine the breed of her ward if not for the intervention of American experts. They managed to establish that the unusual kitten is a bright representative of the Nibelungs, moreover, more perfect than its counterparts from the USA. This explained the dizzying success of the Sedge (that was the name of the long-haired cat) at the exhibition, where the beauty was awarded an honorary award.

Unfortunately, the Nibelung breed has not become popular in Russia: only a few nurseries are engaged in breeding these cats. Animals are found mainly in Canada, the USA, England and most European countries.

Video: Nibelung

Nibelung breed standard

Representatives of the breed are strong and at the same time graceful, hiding developed musculature under a long coat. The sexual type is moderately pronounced: females are not much smaller than males. So, the body weight is 3-4 and 5-6 kg, respectively. At the same time, the balanced proportions of the animal are considered a more significant criterion in comparison with the dimensions fixed by the standard.

Nibelung refers to semi-long-haired breeds of medium size. Because of the thick coat, these cats seem to be short and stocky, but in fact they are harmoniously built.

Head and skull

The animal's head is medium-sized and wedge-shaped. It has a smoothed outline, due to the long coat it seems rounded (although slightly pointed). The skull is flat, the frontal and occipital parts are poorly expressed.

Muzzle

The wedge-shaped muzzle has distinct and at the same time soft outlines. The brow ridges are moderately convex, the cheekbones are high. Stop – the transition between the forehead and nose – is represented by an almost right angle. When examining the Nibelung in profile, it is noticeable that the nose and chin are on the same line. The angular pads of the moustache give the muzzle a "puffiness", this is especially noticeable in females. The nose lobe is pigmented in gray-blue color. The chin is strong and strong-willed.

Ears

The top of the Nibelung's head is crowned with large ears with softly rounded tips and a wide base. They are characterized by a slightly sloping postage. The auricles are slightly pubescent, which is why the "triangles" seem thin and almost transparent.

Eyes

Of medium size, have an oval shape, planted wide and at a slight slope. The iris is pigmented in green. The kittens' eyes are yellow, but acquire a greenish halo around the pupils by the age of eight months. By the age of two, the iris finally changes color. Saturated and deep shades are preferred.

Neck

Representatives of the breed have an elegant and long neck. Often it seems shorter because of the thick "mane". The latter is more pronounced in males.

Housing

The body of the Nibelung is characterized by a slightly stretched format and medium dimensions. The torso looks sporty and proportional. Male and female individuals are characterized by athletic, but not massive musculature. The backbone is thin. The graceful outlines of the animal are hidden by a thick and abundant coat.

Tail

The length of the Nibelung's tail is proportional to the length of the cat's trunk (ideally corresponds to the distance from the shoulder blades to the sacrum). The tail narrows from the base to a rounded tip, resembles a plume in shape. It is covered with longer hair in comparison with the body.

Limbs

Representatives of the breed have long limbs with a moderately developed backbone. They end with oval (sometimes round) paws of medium size. The fingers are gathered into a neat ball, which gives the impression that the Nibelung walks on tiptoe. The space between them is filled with tufts of thick wool. The pads of the paws are pigmented in pinkish-gray color.

Wool cover

The coat of the Nibelungs is characterized by an average length with a slight elongation of the guard hair from the shoulder area to the tail. The coat is thin and soft to the touch, double, with a thick developed undercoat. The coat varies depending on the season: the winter version is more dense, long and soft compared to the summer. The neck of males is decorated with a thick "collar", in females it is less pronounced. The coat is elongated both in the area of the "pants" and on the tail of the animal. The "fur coat" of the Nibelung is finally formed by the age of two.

Color

The coat is uniformly colored blue, shades of medium intensity are preferred. The effect of a silvery tint is achieved due to tipping – pigmentation of the tips of the hairs in a certain color. Because of the thickness of the fur coat, it seems that the Nibelung is surrounded by a mysterious shining halo. The standard allows mild tipping, but the main color of the coat should be deep and saturated.

Possible vices

A breed defect is called a deviation from the standard, its degree is determined by professionals. In the case of the Nibelungs mention:

• atypical pigmentation of the iris;
• square or round head shape;
• massive and/or stocky torso;
• coat color other than blue;
• almond-shaped or round eyes;
• yellow eyes in adults;
• excessively thick tail;
• weak chin;
• strabismus.

Representatives of the breed are disqualified on the following grounds:

• white points or markings characteristic of the color tabby (tabby);
• close-fitting wool to the body;
• amputated claws;
• deafness and/or blindness;
• undescended testicles.

The character of the Nibelung

Owners of "misty cats" speak of them as pets with an unusual character. These animals manage to combine opposite traits. The Nibelungs are playful, but at the same time meek; they can tire with an active pursuit of the sun's glare, but they will calm down at the first request of the owner. Cats do not impose their society on family members, but at the same time they love their company. Fluffy pets are independent, but they will never give up affectionate hugs.

Representatives of the breed tend to get attached to only one person, whom they consider their master. Nibelung spends most of his time with him: he follows on his heels or, on the contrary, curls up in a fluffy ball on his knees or next to him on the sofa. Often the cat communicates with the owner, making a quiet purring meow. The Nibelung's voice can get louder if he insists on delicious food and a clean tray. Animals are very demanding on these points. Cats do not like disorder and a sharp change of environment. Being conservatives, the Nibelungs take a relatively long time to get used to new conditions.

Animals are hard to bear loneliness. If the owner is regularly absent from home, the pet will express dissatisfaction with feline methods: refuse to eat, ignore a fun game or even put an unpleasant "surprise" in the slippers. Such behavior is not a reason to scold the Nibelung, who wants to attract your attention. A busy work schedule is a reason to have another pet who will keep the cat company in your absence.

Since representatives of the breed are distrustful of any changes, acquaintance with a four-legged friend should be gradual and unobtrusive. So the Nibelung will get used to the new tenant faster – of course, if he is friendly enough. At the same time, it does not matter who you took into the house – a dog or a relative of a fluffy handsome man: the pet will find a common language with him and will not get bored in the absence of the owner.

Decorative rodents, birds and aquarium animals are not suitable company for the Nibelung. The breed has developed hunting instincts, and small pets are easy prey. The "misty cat" will eagerly fish out of the water, get to the careless hamster and even rush in pursuit of the parrot. The owners of the Nibelungs do not recommend leaving the animals alone with a potential victim, otherwise hunting at home is provided.

The phlegmatic nature of the breed makes it suitable for the elderly and families with adult children. These cats like a calm and unencumbered atmosphere; loud and harsh sounds unnerve animals. For this reason, the Nibelungs should not be taken into the house with young children: the latter can bother a new furry friend. The animal will certainly protest with a warning growl or, worse, scratches.

With strangers, these cats prefer to be careful, studying strangers from a safe distance or even hiding from them in a secluded place. The Nibelungs do not like loud companies, so few will be able to conquer the heart of the "misty cat". However, even in this case, you can only count on a friendly attitude: animals are not inclined to get attached to unfamiliar people.

The Nibelung is an active breed, although its representatives seem calm. Cats prefer to splash out energy in acrobatic tricks and pirouettes. Animals easily climb to the mezzanine and from there inspect their possessions. If desired, the Nibelungs can even open the door by reaching for the handle with their paws. Cats will not refuse outdoor games with the owner. This is especially true of young individuals who are ready for any fun adventure.

Education and training

The breed is distinguished by a high level of intelligence, which makes it possible to train Nibelungs. From the first day of the pet's appearance in the house, it is necessary to accustom him to the tray. Cats relieve themselves after waking up, eating and playing active games. At first, it is worth forcibly putting the baby in the tray. The owners of the Nibelungs recommend "encouraging" the animal's instinct to bury its bowel movements. To do this, carefully take the kitten's paw and make a pile of filler with it. So the baby will understand what the owner is waiting for, and in the future will use the tray as a toilet.

The Nibelung's habituation to the scratching post is carried out according to a similar scheme. The pet's paws are carefully held from top to bottom, thereby showing: this place can be scratched. The action is repeated regularly until the animal uses the scratching post on its own. To attract attention, it is recommended to impregnate its surface with a substance with the smell of catnip. In this case, the Nibelung will show more interest in the scratching post.

Training at home is possible only in the absence of coercion. Although representatives of the breed are distinguished by an easy-going nature, they will not put up with the demanding attitude of the owner. Encouragement, affection and a good mood during training will bring more worthy fruits, unlike the carrot and stick method of training.

One of the main laws is the observation of the habits of the Nibelung. Learn to recognize which actions are most interesting to your pet:

• wears his favorite things in his teeth – choose the team "Aport!";
• runs without knowing fatigue – teach the cat to jump through the hoop;
• likes to relax in a secluded corner – use the commands "Sit!" and "Lie down!".

Don't forget to encourage the animal with his favorite treat. It can be pellets of dry food or an appetizing "yummy" from a pet store.

Care and maintenance

The Nibelung is one of the breeds that need careful care, taking at least half an hour a day. At the same time, the lion's share of time should be devoted to the magnificent fur of the pet.

The wool of "misty cats" needs to be combed along the outer hair 2-3 times a week. A brush with natural pile or a comb with sparse rounded teeth are suitable for the procedure. During the period of seasonal molting – in autumn and spring – the procedure is carried out more often. This will prevent the formation of tangles in the thick undercoat of the cat. The owners of the Nibelungs suggest following the algorithm: comb the pet daily with a brush, and once a week thin out its coat with a furminator. Velvet, suede or other soft fabric will help to give the hairs a healthy shine.

Remember: if possible, avoid walking with the Nibelung in the open sun. Direct rays can lead to burnout of the coat: the silver-blue shade will be replaced by reddish or brown.

The Nibelung does not require frequent bathing, since regular water procedures negatively affect the condition of the cat's coat. Wash your pet only as his fur coat gets dirty, no more than 2 times a year. To do this, use a special pet shampoo with a mild formula that suits the type of Nibelung wool. Lather the pet only in the direction of hair growth with careful massaging movements. After that, rinse the fur thoroughly so as not to leave a drop of the product on it.

Please note: the Nibelung wool can be dried in two ways – with a towel or a hair dryer. If you have decided on the second option, use cold blowing. A hot stream of air will make the cat's fur dry and harsh.

To avoid infectious diseases, check your pet's eyes regularly. Morning discharge in the corners can be removed with a cotton pad soaked in a decoction of herbs. The ears of the Nibelung also need a weekly inspection. Excess sulfur is extracted with cotton swabs. Veterinarians recommend using drying lotions to remove excess moisture from the ear canals.

The next stage is the care of the oral cavity of the animal. It should be examined weekly in order to detect damaged teeth or gum inflammation in time. For the procedure, use a zoo paste with components that help to soften the plaque and slow down the reproduction of pathogenic microflora. Brushing the teeth of the Nibelung should not be more than 2 times a month. More regular procedures are fraught with damage to the enamel. If you find a tartar, you should contact a veterinary clinic. The specialist will prescribe treatment: grinding, mechanical chipping or cleaning with ultrasound.

To shorten the claws of an animal, purchase a claw cutter that needs to be disinfected before use. The procedure is carried out as necessary in good lighting: this will help to see the "live" part of the claw and not to touch the tool. It would be useful to step back from it 1-2 mm before cutting off the tip. Position the claw cutter perpendicular to the surface of the claws. This way you will not only reduce the pain from the procedure, but also prevent further delamination of the claws.

Representatives of the breed are loyal to both natural food and dry food. The first option is considered more complex, since it requires the development of a balanced menu. For kittens, baby meat food, grated cheese, boiled chicken with buckwheat or oatmeal porridge, frozen raw turkey and beef, cottage cheese without additives are appropriate – in general, all easily digestible products. Adult Nibelungs are suitable for lean meat (should take at least half of the diet), boneless sea fish, cereals (semolina, oatmeal, rice), fermented dairy products and chicken eggs. At the request of the pet, you can diversify the menu with seasonal fruits and vegetables.

It is important to know: mineral supplements and vitamins are the key to a cat's good health. Before purchasing them, it is necessary to consult with a veterinarian. Complexes containing seaweed or iodine can change the color of the coat of the Nibelung.

Dry food is a simpler option, since they already have the proportions of all necessary and useful trace elements. Premium or super premium classes are ideal. Please note that the use of liquid feed increases the risk of tartar, and solid granules provide preventive cleaning. For the latter, you can also purchase special "bones", which not only play the role of treats, but also carefully remove plaque on the teeth of the animal.

Do not feed the Nibelung:

• buckwheat, carrots and liver (change the color of the coat);
• fried or pickled foods;
• fatty meat – pork or lamb;
• food with lots of spices;
• milk (except kittens);
• tubular bones;
• dried fruits;
• smoked meats;
• river fish;
• potatoes;
• canned food;
• sweets.

A separate bowl should be filled with water regularly. The owners of the Nibelungs are advised to purchase bottled, but you can also use a flowing one, having previously insisted for about 6-8 hours. It is not recommended to give boiled water to the Nibelung: its use often causes urolithiasis.

Health and diseases of the Nibelungs

Representatives of the breed are distinguished by good health and lack of predisposition to genetic diseases. Under the wrong conditions of detention, nibelungs can become victims of common feline ailments. They are manifested by the following symptoms:

• excrement with bloody inclusions;
• copious discharge from ears, eyes and nose;
• swollen and/or hard to the touch stomach;
• dull coat;
• constipation, diarrhea or vomiting;
• constrained movements;
• mucosal redness;
• lack of appetite;
• very thirsty.

At the slightest hint of a pet's illness, contact a veterinarian. Timely help will eradicate the disease and save the life of a fluffy handsome man.

How to choose a kitten

It is possible to purchase a four-legged baby without defects only from experienced breeders who are engaged in breeding the breed. In bird markets and pet stores, under the guise of Nibelungs, ordinary murziks of suitable color are often sold. Purebred and healthy animals from nurseries will cost future owners more, but will please with excellent immunity and health.

Nibelung breeders recommend buying kittens at the age of 3 months. The kids have already acquired primary social skills, good health and a balanced psyche. In addition, the potential owner will not have to think about vaccination and deworming in the near future: the nursery staff has already taken care of this. They will also provide a veterinary passport with the appropriate marks.

Since birth, kittens can boast a characteristic silver-blue color. Sometimes there are individuals with light gray hair or points in the form of tiger stripes, which eventually disappear. The iris is pigmented in yellow and acquires a green hue by the age of two. At first, the straight ears are slightly wrapped up after a few days.

Before choosing a future friend, you should familiarize yourself with the breed standard and get advice from an expert on the Nibelungs. Ask the breeder to provide information about the positive and negative traits of the litter, as well as to introduce you to the parents of kittens. This will allow you to observe the adults and understand what to expect from the kids in the future.

If one of the fuzzies won you over at first sight, take your time with the choice! It is necessary to make sure that the potential friend is healthy. The kitten should be moderately playful and active; without bald spots and inflammation on the skin; with clean ears, eyes, nose and mouth. A healthy baby has an elastic and proportional tummy; the area around the anus is dry, without secretions.

When choosing a Nibelung kitten, consider its gender. Most often, cats have a more independent character in comparison with affectionate cats, who often spend time on the owner's lap.

The price of the Nibelung

"Misty Cats" is a very expensive pleasure. Since representatives of the breed are quite rare, and official nurseries where Nibelungs are bred – all the more so, the cost of these animals reaches $650 and above. Culled individuals are offered to buyers at a more affordable price.

To expand the gene pool, Nibelung breeds can be crossed with their closest relatives – Russian blue cats. As a result of this mating, short–haired kittens appear - carriers of the gene for a long coat. Sometimes babies are left for further breeding, but most often they are put up for sale. And let their cost be significantly reduced, and their appearance does not meet the standard: you will get a devoted and loving friend who will make your life brighter and richer!