The saddest thing a cat lover can hear is that they are allergic to their favorite little fur ball (hey, cats suffer allergies, too). Some of us would rather cut off our noses than be forced to live a cat-free life. The good news is that many people with allergies can still enjoy the company of cats — so long as they know about hypo-allergenic cat breeds.
Cat-related allergies are caused by Fel D1, which is a chemical found in cat saliva. Cat’s tongue-bathe themselves several times daily. This leaves saliva on their fur, which dries out and becomes airborne. Male cats produce more of this chemical than females, intact males produce more than neutered males, and kittens produce almost none.
That means fostering kittens for your local shelter may be the best way to enjoy cats in a non-allergic setting, without even considering whether they’re hypo-allergenic cat breeds or not.
Hypo-Allergenic Cat Breeds
Probably the most famous of the hypo-allergenic cat breeds is the hairless Sphinx. The Sphinx is a regal-looking cat that is used to being treated like kitty royalty. There is also a variety with hair, but your best bet to avoid allergies is the hairless version. These cats will need weekly baths, so make sure they are well-socialized.
The Siberian can also be hairless but is better known for its long-haired variety. This breed naturally produces less of the Fel D1 compound, so it is a great option for allergy sufferers who still want a furry cat.
Two of the so-called Rex cats have very short fur that tends to be thinner than similar cats. These don’t require weekly bathing like the Sphinx, though they may need their ears and/or paws cleaned regularly, as skin oils lead to buildup. The Cornish Rex and the Devon Rex are both laid back cats that are comfortable staying inside if need be.
The Balinese is probably the most “normal” looking of all hypo-allergenic cat breeds. It has long hair and a vaguely Siamese-like appearance. These need to be brushed often — preferably NOT by the allergy sufferer. Balinese cats naturally produce less of the allergen chemical.
Find A Vet Near You
Now that you know how many hypo-allergenic breeds there are to choose from, you’ll never have to be without a feline companion again! If your cat ever needs medical attention, use TalkLocal to find a qualified vet in your area.
Visit our site and put in a request. We’ll have you talking with several qualified vets on the phone in a matter of minutes.
