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Johanna Gater-Willats

Cat Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

Cat Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

As much as we love our feline friends, for some people, living with cats can be a challenge due to allergies. However, not all cats produce the same amount of allergens, and some breeds are more hypoallergenic than others. In this article, we'll explore some cat breeds that may be suitable for allergic owners.

man holding his hand up and coughing due to allergy

Introduction

Living with allergies doesn't mean you can't enjoy the companionship of a cat. While no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic, some breeds produce fewer allergens than others, making them a better fit for allergic owners. If you're considering getting a cat but are concerned about allergies, it's important to spend time with the breed you're interested in before making a decision. Spend some time with a friend or family member's cat, or visit a breeder or animal shelter to interact with the cats in person. This will give you a better idea of how you will react to the cat's dander and allergens.


Additionally, it's important to remember that even if you have a cat that is considered hypoallergenic, you may still experience symptoms of allergies. Regular grooming, including bathing and brushing, can help to reduce the amount of dander in your home. You may also want to consider investing in an air purifier or vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to help remove allergens from the air and surfaces in your home.


It's also important to note that while some breeds may produce fewer allergens than others, individual cats within a breed can still vary in their allergen production. It's always a good idea to spend time with a specific cat before adopting to see how you react.

 
sphynx cat hairless breed of cat, hypoallregenic



Sphynx

The Sphynx is a hairless breed of cat, which makes it an ideal choice for allergy sufferers. Without fur, there is less dander, which is the primary allergen that cats produce. However, even though they are hairless, they still require regular grooming to remove any excess oils and dead skin cells.



 
cream and brown balinese hypoallergenic cat breed



Balinese

The Balinese is a long-haired breed of cat that produces fewer allergens than other long-haired cats. They have a single coat of fine fur that doesn't shed as much as other cats. They are also known to produce less of the protein that triggers allergic reactions.




 
Russian blue cat breed dark grey, hypoallregenic

Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is a short-haired breed of cat that produces less of the Fel d 1 protein, which is the primary allergen that cats produce. They have a dense, plush coat that doesn't shed as much as other cats, which means less dander is released into the air.





 
Devon Rex cat breed, hypoallergenic



Devon Rex

The Devon Rex is a curly-haired breed of cat that produces less dander than other cats. Their fur is curly, which makes it less likely to stick to furniture and clothing, reducing the spread of allergens. They require regular grooming to keep their coats in good condition.



 
Siberian Forest cat breed hypoallergenic

Siberian

The Siberian is a long-haired breed of cat that produces lower levels of Fel d 1 protein than other cats. They have a thick, triple-layered coat that sheds seasonally, which means they may be a good choice for people who are allergic to cats but don't mind a little bit of shedding.





 
Cornish Rex cat breed , hypoallergenic




Cornish Rex

The Cornish Rex is a curly-haired breed of cat that produces less dander than other cats. They have a soft, wavy coat that doesn't shed as much as other cats, which makes them less likely to spread allergens around the house.




 
bengal cat breed hypoallergenic with cheetah type markings


Bengal

The Bengal is a short-haired breed of cat that produces less dander than other cats. They have a thick, luxurious coat that doesn't shed as much as other cats, which means less allergens are released into the air. They are known for their high energy and love of play, making them a great choice for families with children.



 
Javanese cat breed, with long soft fur and a fluffy tail against a green background

Javanese

The Javanese is a long-haired breed of cat that produces less allergens than other long-haired cats. They have a single coat of fur that is silky and soft, which doesn't shed as much as other cats. They are known for their playful, affectionate nature, making them a great choice for families.


 
Two orientla shorthair breed cats, one pure black the other silver tabby lying together on a brown cushion

Oriental Shorthair

The Oriental Shorthair is a short-haired breed of cat that produces less of the Fel d 1 protein than other cats. They have a sleek, smooth coat that doesn't shed as much as other cats, which means less dander is released into the air. They are known for their active, curious personalities.


 
a ginger LaPerm cat standing against a blue background

LaPerm

The LaPerm is a curly-haired breed that produces less dander than other cats. They have a soft, curly coat that doesn't shed as much as other cats, making them less likely to spread allergens around the house. They are known for their affectionate, playful personalities.


 

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several cat breeds that may be suitable for allergic owners. From hairless breeds like the Sphynx to curly-haired breeds like the LaPerm, there are many options to choose from. While no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic, choosing a breed that produces fewer allergens can make living with a cat more manageable for those with allergies. It's important to spend time with the breed you're interested in before adopting, and to take steps to reduce allergens in your home, such as regular grooming and using air purifiers or vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters. With the right precautions and the right cat, living with allergies and a furry feline companion is possible.



a black cat on a sofa being stroked by a very young child

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