Are your allergies acting up with a cat in the house? Truth be told! You need a hypoallergenic cat!
When you catch yourself constantly sneezing and itching, it can curb you from showing some love to your furry children. Fear not, because you’re not alone!
Most people are twice as likely to have cat allergies than dog allergies, but who can resist a good-looking feline?
So, if you’re still longing for a pet cat, there are some hypoallergenic cat breeds to choose from.
These cat breeds are known to produce fewer allergens than most types. Keep in mind that no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic.
What causes an allergic reaction to cats?
If you’re wondering about the root of the allergies you experience from cats, it’s surprisingly not the cat’s fur. Instead, it’s a type of protein called Fel D1.
This protein is found in the salivary discharge of allergenic cats which causes you to sneeze and feel itchy. The allergen is released once the cat licks its coat, and then becomes an airborne particle transmitted at a faster rate in the air.
Factors that affect allergen production in cats
You might not know what factors produce allergens. It might depend on the gender of a cat or its fur-type.
Here’s what you need to know!
- Male cats produce more of the protein that triggers your allergies than females
- Kittens produce fewer allergenic secretions than the adults
Top 10 hypoallergenic cat breeds
These breeds produce fewer allergens which make cat parenting with a sensitive nose quite easier! Allow this list of “hypoallergenic” cats to be your ultimate guide as you search for your perfect match!
1. Oriental Shorthair cat
The Oriental Shorthair is definitely considered a hypoallergenic cat breed. The coating of this Oriental feline is as noteworthy as its personality. While they make good pets for people with allergies, they can also entertain anyone with full enthusiasm as they love being the center of attention.
Make sure they're immersed enough in activities so they feel more alive and engaged, putting their curious energy in these hobbies.
2. Balinese cat
Also referred to as “longhaired Siamese,” these cats don’t look like they’re hypoallergenic. Despite their type of fur that makes them an unlikely hypoallergenic cat breed, it is surprisingly one of a handful of breeds that produce less Fel D1 protein than other cats.
So you're generally safe to keep a Balinese cat.
These adorable-looking cats are quite intelligent, sweet, and fun to have around! They are a lot like the Siamese, for being vocal and loud when communicating with you.
Do note that the Balinese cats are quite sensitive to your mood and their sociable nature keeps any cat owner with allergies from ever feeling lonely or sad by cheering them up!
3. Javanese cat
The Javanese cats have fur coats that are at least medium in length and do not mat.
Lacking an undercoat, they tend to have less fur, which translates into producing a lot fewer allergens.
You will love the Javanese cats! They are entirely devoted, intelligent and quite famous for their ability to communicate. These cats have a fascination for food and yet can burn off those calories.
This breed is perfect for you if you are searching for a cat that's easy to train and can show a lot of affection. Expect frequent purring by your ear and instances of this cat following you around.
4. Devon Rex cat
There are two types of Rex cats, and the more hypoallergenic one is the Devon Rex. This cat has both shorter and less fur than its counterpart.
As a potential owner, your Devon Rex will need to have her paw pads and ears cleaned frequently from oil build-up. Although they wouldn't need frequent baths, unlike some cats.
We are quick to compare the Devon Rex cat with elves for their large ear size and their eyes that go deep into their soul.
Even with such a strange look, they are known to cuddle up with you at night and snuggle under the covers without the fear of sneezing or wheezing since Devons shed less than other breeds.
5. Cornish Rex cat
While the Devon is low-maintenance, the Cornish Rex cat requires more upkeep because of the need for frequent baths to reduce the oil buildup on their skin.
Cornish Rex cats are a lot like Siamese being inquisitive, active and have a playful temperament. Life situations are seen as a game to the Cornish Rex. It'll be hard to ignore them when they’re in a sociable mood as Rexes are extremely affectionate, outgoing and loving towards their people.
Both the Devon and Cornish Rex are in the list of the nonallergenic breeds of cats. You can choose between the two depending on your personality.
6. Sphynx cat
The hairless Sphynx is the cat that is often thought of being a nonallergenic cat breed. However, being hairless does not mean they’re maintenance-free. Your Sphynx cats will need frequent baths as much as they can to remove any buildup of oils on their skin.
According to standards of cat associations, the Sphynx personality features are often compared to dogs for their social and animated nature. Their loyalty and devotion both extend to their humans by wagging their tails in a dog-like fashion.
7. Siberian cat
Even when the Siberian cat sports a moderately long coat, it is still hypoallergenic due to the enzyme levels present in their saliva.
Surprisingly, about 75 percent of people with cat allergies don't react to Siberians. These are quite affectionate with a good dose of playfulness.
It's rare for cats to develop a fascination with water, but Siberians often love to splash into bathtubs and drop their toys into the water which is not expected in cats.
Siberians are an entirely intelligent breed. They do possess the ability to solve problems and overcome challenges whenever they want to. Even their size won't stop them from being great jumpers!
8. Russian Blue cat
These Russian Blue cats were named after their unique coats. Their coats are lavender at the base, darkening along the shaft up to the tips of the fur that is sprinkled with shimmering silver. These cats are elegant, reserved but playful as they love to chase after toys and anything else that moves!
One of the more amusing features of the Russian Blues is their “smile” thanks to their slightly upturned mouth. Just as much as you would feel amused with these cats, the Russian Blue can also spend hours amusing itself and not mind being left home alone for the day. They'll still feel happy to see you once you arrive!
9. Bengal cat
Bengal cats are sure to enjoy human company as often as they could and will cuddle up to their favorite humans. Meanwhile, Bengal cats are drawn to children and do favor their company because of their energetic nature.
10. Colorpoint Shorthair cat
The Colorpoint Shorthair is closely related to the Siamese. They are born an extrovert, making friends with people who are allergic to cats easier.
This cat busies itself showing love and affection to their owners. They are also remarkably sensitive to moods. So, if they sense their owners are close to tears, these cats will try to accompany them and bring comfort.
Now you see that there’s a cat out there for just about everyone, including people with allergies. So we are excited about your choice of cat to bring home!
Want to learn more? Feline Living Net is filled with tips and tricks to help pet parents and their cats understand the feline specie better and be able to make their cat's lives better as much as possible.
From hypoallergenic cats to in-depth cat nutrition guides, top products, feline breeds, and health advice, Feline Living Net provides it all to help grow your cat parent skills and relationships with your furry children!
