If you’re one of the many people who love cats but suffer from allergies, you may feel like you’ll never be able to own one. However, there is good news: hypoallergenic cat exist!
Hypoallergenic cat are breeds that produce fewer allergens than other cats, which can make them a great option for people with allergies. While no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic, some breeds are better suited for people with allergies than others.
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Tips for Choosing a Cat Breed if You Have Allergies
10 percent of people have pet allergies, and Hypoallergenic Cats allergies are twice as common as dog allergies. Cat allergies are caused by the presence of the Fel d1 protein, which can be found in cats’ saliva, urine, and dander. However, there are certain breeds that produce less of this protein than others, and these breeds can be a good choice for people with allergies.
Breeds that Produce Less Fel d1 Protein
Siamese Cats: This breed is very vocal and has a distinct low-pitched meow. The Balinese breed started out as a Siamese cat that had a spontaneous mutation resulting in long fur.
Oriental Short Hair: These cats have a short and sleek coat with fine hair strands. Their coat sheds less than other breeds.
Devon Rex: This breed sheds less than other breeds and produces less dander. The Devon Rex even has a unique head that some people say resembles an alien.
Cornish Rex: This breed is known for its wavy or curly fur.
Selkirk Rex: This breed has a unique coat with soft and thick fur that can sometimes appear curly.
The 10 best hypoallergenic cat breeds
Let’s talk about some of the top “hypoallergenic” cat breeds now that you have a better grasp of cat allergies. Some of these felines are said to make less of the Fel d 1 protein in general, while others are said to shed less or have less hair, making them less likely to spread allergens.
1. Siberian
These lovely cats have a triple hair that can be kept clean by brushing them once a week. Seasonal shedding occurs in Siberian cats; during this time, regular brushing can help maintain the health of their coats (particularly the undercoat) and reduce allergens.
But don’t be intimidated by the Siberian’s thick hair! Siberians may generate less of the Fel d 1 protein than other cat breeds, according to research.
These cats have clever, observant personalities. They are kind to guests, kids, and other animals, and enjoy having an audience for their antics.
2. Devon Rex
The Devon Rex sheds less than many other cat types because of its thin, fine coat. Although you can wipe down this cat’s hair to promote the spread of natural oils, Devon Rex cats typically don’t need much grooming attention to stay clean.
These cats are very energetic and enjoy using it. They enjoy participating in your activities and are renowned for purring noisily when content. You should keep a watch out for Devon Rexes because they are also rumoured to be a little mischievous, so make sure they aren’t getting into any mischief.
3. Javanese
Javanese cats, which resemble Siamese and are noted for their vocalism, are descended from a mix between a Balinese and a Colorpoint Shorthair. These chatty cats may reply when spoken to or begin talking randomly.
Javanese cats are intelligent and athletic. They are great jumpers and enjoy using their curiosity to investigate cupboards or drawers if they can. These cats have no undercoat and short, low-maintenance hair.
Regular brushing will help reduce any allergens because Javanese cats are known to be among the varieties with the least amount of shedding.
4. Sphynx
Because of their lack of hair, the hairless Sphynx cat is often one of the first breeds that comes to mind for allergy sufferers, but these cats are not as hypoallergenic as you might assume. Sphynx, like all cats, produces dander, but it can be reduced by frequent bathing, which also helps avoid an oil buildup on their skin.
Sphynx cats are outgoing, sociable, and mischievous. This breed is also intelligent, curious, and enjoys being the centre of focus. These cats will follow you around like dogs, displaying dog-like fidelity and devotion.
5. Ocicat
The Ocicat, which resembles a miniature Ocelot, is a clever, athletic, and high-energy breed. These cats can be a little demanding; they’re extroverted, chatty, and always want to play. In reality, this cat might benefit from having another cat or dog in the house to keep them entertained. I
Unlike many other cat breeds, some Ocicats don’t mind water and may appreciate a bath now and then. Ocicats shed very little, but using a grooming cloth to remove dead hair on a frequent basis can be beneficial.
6. Balinese
Balinese cats, also known as “long-haired Siamese,” are known to be intelligent, adaptable, and sociable. These are cats who get along well with children and other pets and value a healthy mix of play and relaxation. The Balinese are believed to have evolved as a result of a spontaneous mutation when long-haired kittens were born to a Siamese cat.
Despite their long coats, these Balinese cats do not shed much and require little cat care. Balinese cats are said to have less Fel d 1 protein, making them ideal for allergy sufferers.
7. Oriental Shorthair
Although the Oriental breed is available in both shorthair and longhair varieties, Oriental Shorthairs are thought to be better suited for cat allergy patients due to their shorter coats.
These cats have silky coats that are simple to maintain and do not shed excessively. Brushing on a regular basis can help reduce shedding and keep their hair shiny.
Oriental Shorthairs are renowned for their adorable, large ears and for being very talkative, active, and outgoing. These cats will require a lot of activity and interaction to keep them happy. Oriental Shorthairs enjoy developing close relationships with family members and other pets in the house.
8. Cornish Rex
Cornish Rexes have short, curly coats that are near to the body. These short, thin coats, like the Devon Rex, discharge very little, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. Because of the nature of their hair, the Cornish Rex is prone to oil buildup and will require more bathing than other breeds.
These cats are entertaining, active, and enjoy playing. The breed is inquisitive, athletic, and, unlike many cats, enjoys being lifted up. Cornish Rex cats will accompany you from one location to another and thrive on attention.
9. Burmese
The Burmese is an active, talkative, and sometimes stubborn cat who enjoys spending time with their family, as well as other cats and canines. These cats are intelligent and enjoy playing; they will be upset if they are left alone at home, particularly if there is nothing to keep them entertained.
Burmese cats have short, silky coats, and while they don’t shed as little as some of the other varieties on our list, they’re still on the low end of the scale. These cats require little grooming, but regular brushing, like many other cats, will help keep their coats healthy and clean.
10. Russian Blue
Russian Blues, distinguished by the colour of their coats, are gentle, affectionate, and content to spend quiet time alone or with their families. These cats are adaptable, empathetic, and sometimes a little shy.
Russian Blues have a short but dense coat, and they may shed a little more than some of the breeds on our list – so they may not be the best choice if you have serious allergies.
Also Read– 12 Hypoallergenic Cats Breeds for People with Cat Allergies
What is the best type of cat for someone with allergies?
If you are someone who has allergies but would still like to have a cat, you may want to consider one of the following breeds:
Sphynx: This breed is hairless, so it may be a good option for those with allergies to cat dander.
Devon Rex: This breed has a curly, soft coat that produces less dander than other cats, which can help reduce allergic reactions.
Cornish Rex: Similar to the Devon Rex, this breed has a curly coat that produces less dander.
Siberian: Some people with allergies have reported less of a reaction to the Siberian cat’s coat, which has less Fel d 1 protein, the allergen that causes allergic reactions in some people.
It’s important to note that no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic, and some people may still experience allergic reactions to these breeds. It’s always a good idea to spend some time with the cat you’re considering to see if you have any allergic reactions before bringing them into your home. Additionally, keeping your home clean and using air purifiers can also help reduce allergens in the air.
Is there a 100% hypoallergenic cat?
There is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic cat. All cats produce allergens, which are proteins found in their skin, saliva, and urine, that can trigger an allergic reaction in some people. However, some cat breeds are considered to be hypoallergenic because they produce fewer allergens or have a different type of protein in their coat or saliva that is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
Some examples of hypoallergenic cat breeds include the Sphynx, Devon Rex, Cornish Rex, Siberian, Balinese, and the Russian Blue. However, even with these breeds, there is no guarantee that a person with allergies will not have a reaction. It’s important for people with allergies to spend time with a cat before adopting one to see if they have a reaction, and to take steps to reduce their exposure to allergens, such as frequent cleaning and grooming of the cat and the home.
What is the most hypoallergenic cat with fur?
It’s a common misconception that some cat breeds are entirely hypoallergenic. However, there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic cat. Some breeds, though, may produce fewer allergens than others, making them a better option for people with allergies.
Some cat breeds that produce fewer allergens include the Sphynx, Devon Rex, Cornish Rex, and Russian Blue. However, it’s essential to note that individual cats within a breed may produce different levels of allergens, and allergies are a complex issue that varies from person to person.
If you’re considering getting a cat and have allergies, it’s best to spend time with cats of different breeds to see how your body reacts before making a decision. It’s also helpful to speak with your doctor about allergy treatment options.