8 Best Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds
The article is about cats for allergic individuals
Sneezing, hives, swollen and itchy eyes are symptoms of allergy sufferers and asthma, and these symptoms could easily recognize by anyone with cat allergy.
According to Allergy and Asthma Foundation USA (AAFA), 3 out of 10 people with allergies are allergic to cats and dogs. According to AAFA, cat allergies are twice more common than dog allergies. Cat allergy is widespread, and it can lead from rhinoconjunctivitis to life-threatening asthma.
So what if you are looking for a friendly cat to keep as a pet and think that cats as a pet are better for allergy sufferers? Do hypoallergenic cats exist? Although no cat is entirely hypoallergenic. Yes, for sure, some cat breeds produce less allergen, dander, and shed less hair as compared to other cat breeds.
Causes of Allergies to Cats
Before breaking down the list of best hypoallergenic cat breeds, it’s important to know why cats cause allergic reactions to allergy sufferers and asthma patients.
Major cat allergen is a protein Fel d1. This protein is mainly produced in their slive and spread through dander in fur, and fur itself spreads this protein after shedding.
Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds
So what are the hypoallergenic cat breeds? Indeed that produces fewer Fel D1 proteins and so has fewer allergy symptoms.
A study conducted by the European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology shows that no cat breed is free from Fel D1 proteins. According to this study, female cats produce less Fel D1 than male cats. After castration, males produce three to five times fewer Fel d1 proteins. Production of this protein is also varying among different cat breeds.
8 Best Cat Breeds for allergic individuals
As there is no allergen-free feline. Let’s talk about felines that produce less allergens or less hairy. These breeds still pose irritability to extra sensitive people and may continue sneezing when cats are around.
Siberian
Like the Balinese and Russian blues, Siberian produce less Fel d1 protein than other feline breeds, so a good option as a hypoallergenic cat breed. Siberians are large with long hair coats. They do shed hair seasonally, which can be maintained with proper brushing. This fluffy creature has friendly nature with humans and other animals. They love water, unlike the other cat breeds.
Cornish Rex
This intelligent feline has a thin coat of hair like Devon Rex, making them a good adoption for allergy sufferers because of less shedding. This energetic breed has curious nature and is fun-loving. They love climbing and exploring the things around them.
Russian Blue
This short hair breed has a thick coat but produces less Fel d1 protein that causes allergy in sensitive people. Although this breed sheds more hair than other breeds so maybe it’s not a good option for adoption for susceptible people. This gentle breed is shy in nature and loves to spend alone time.
Balinese
This intelligent breed produces less Fel d1 protein like Russian blue, so a good option for allergic individuals. This playful and intelligent feline is like long-haired Siamese and sheds less hair despite long coats. Hence require little maintenance grooming. They love to play with children and other pets.
Sphynx
The sphynx cat may be a perfect option if you are an allergy sufferer because they are hairless cats. They do produce less Fel d1 that is present in cat saliva. Like other cats, they produce dander too, which can be maintained with regular bathing. They are very mischievous, curious, loving, and loyal cats. They love doing tricks for attention and love cuddling.
Devon Rex
Devon rex has a thin fine hair coat like cornish rex and sheds less than many other cat breeds, decreasing the chances of allergies. Due to the thin coat of hair, they generally need lesser grooming care. It resembles pixie due to its large body and a small head. They love heights and are mischievous in nature.
Oriental Short Hair
Oriental short hair is a good breed for allergy sufferers due to their short hair. However, this breed comes in both long and short hair. Coat hair are very silky, so shed less, and easy to care for. Like Siamese, these cats are talkative. If you are looking for a lap cat for adoption, oriental short hair is a good option due to its clingy nature.
