Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds: What Allergy Sufferers Should Know Before Adopting

More Pet Health Articles

Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds: What Allergy Sufferers Should Know Before Adopting

For millions of people, the idea of having a cat in the home is accompanied by a few unpleasant symptoms – itchy eyes, sneezing, and congestion. For these individuals, pet allergies are among the primary reasons for either avoiding cat ownership altogether, or for having to rehome a cat that already owns the home of the allergic individual. However, an allergy diagnosis does not necessarily mean that an individual is to be without cats in their homes. With the right breed of cat, with the right setup of the home, and with a few planning considerations, even those with allergies can enjoy the companionship of a feline pet.

What Actually Causes Cat Allergies

Contrary to popular belief, it is not the hair from cats that can lead to allergies. The protein called Fel d 1, which is naturally produced in a cat’s saliva, skin (dander), and to a lesser extent, their urine, is the substance that leads to allergies. When cats groom themselves, this protein transfers to the cat’s fur and dander that becomes distributed throughout the air and into the homes of their owners. Those with allergies experience reactions to this protein, not the hair from the cat.

Due to this information, a cat’s shedding of fur and its hypoallergenic status are two entirely different issues. There are cats that naturally shed less fur but produce more of the Fel d 1 protein than others, while there are other breeds of cats that naturally produce less of this protein altogether.

Breeds Known for Lower Allergen Production

While no cat is completely allergen-free, some breeds are consistently reported by owners and breeders to cause fewer symptoms:

• Siberian cats are often cited as producing comparatively lower levels of Fel d 1 despite their long, thick coats.
• Balinese cats, sometimes called the “longhaired Siamese,” are also associated with reduced allergen output.
• Russian Blue cats are often recommended to those who suffer from allergies. While their dense coat sheds less than many other cat breeds, the reported levels of Fel d 1 in Russian Blues is less than average for cat breeds. Additionally, their calm and even nature makes them an appropriate cat for first time cat owners. If choosing a Russian Blue, look for a reputable Russian Blue breeder. a good Russian Blue breeder.
• Sphynx cats, while hairless, still produce dander on their skin and require frequent bathing, so they aren’t automatically a safe bet for every allergy sufferer.

Before You Adopt: Steps to Take

1. Spend time with the breed first. Visit a breeder, cattery, or foster home for the breed you are considering and spend some time with the breed. Most breeds will have varying reactions to each individual person, so this is the only way to experience the breed before making a commitment.
2. Talk to an allergist. A board-certified allergist can perform tests to determine the severity of your sensitivity to cat allergies before you bring a cat into your home. Prescriptions for medications or allergy shots can be prescribed prior to your cat’s arrival home.
   
    
3. Plan your home environment. Regardless of breed, a HEPA air purifier, frequent vacuuming with a HEPA-filter vacuum, and keeping the cat out of the bedroom can meaningfully reduce airborne allergen levels.
   
    
4. Establish a grooming routine. Regular brushing (ideally by someone without allergies) and occasional bathing can reduce the amount of loose dander in the home.
   
    
5. Consider male vs. female and neuter status. Some studies suggest neutered male cats may produce slightly less Fel d 1 than intact males, though this is a minor factor compared to breed and individual variation.
   
    

Managing Expectations

While lower shedding and protein content breeds like Russian Blues tend to cause fewer allergic reactions, they are not hypoallergenic or allergen-free. For those with allergies, it is the combination of finding a breed with lower allergens and properly managing the indoor cat’s habitat that will allow for cat ownership.

For those with either asthma or allergies, it is advisable to consult with a physician prior to adoption. Taking a short visit around the cat over a few hours can provide insight into how your body may react to the pet before having to make a commitment to adopt a cat into the home.