Well, let’s get one thing straight. Technically there are no hypoallergenic cats, however there are some breeds that produce much fewer allergens than others. The following breeds are shown to have little to no allergenic effect on their owners. This makes them a great choice if you have allergies. Here are the best hypoallergenic cats.
Technically there are no hypoallergenic cats
So, what causes humans to have allergies caused by cats? The primary cause is a glycoprotein called Fel D1. This protein is produced by the oil glands underneath the cat’s skin as well (but to a lesser degree) in their saliva. And when a cat grooms it is constantly shedding particles of skin flakes into the environment and shed around the house. This produces allergies to those who are susceptible. However, some people with less severe allergies can tolerate a number of the following cat breeds.
The primary cause of allergies is a glycoprotein called Fel D1
#Balinese
Often referred to as the long-haired Siamese, this cat is social, adaptable, and smart. While this cat may not seem like the most hypoallergenic, it’s actually one of the few breeds that produce less of the Fel D1 protein than other breeds. This makes it a good choice for people who experience allergies. These cats are kid-friendly and even get along with other pets as well. The Balinese cats are the perfect mix of playful and chill. And despite their long coats, these cats aren’t big shredders and require minimal grooming maintenance.
This cat is social, adaptable, and smart
#Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex cats have curly coats that sit close to their bodies. Their coats are thin, short, and they don’t shed a lot. And as a bonus, their coats are extremely soft. This makes them much more tolerable for people with allergies. If you are searching for a playful cat that is curious, athletic and actually enjoys being picked up and pet, then the Cornish Rex is for you. They love to play games and other fun cat activities. These cats are also vert intelligent and can be taught to preform tricks.
Their coats are thin, short, and they don’t shed a lot
#Sphynx
While you may think Sphynx cats have absolutely no hair, they actually have some soft down-like hair in areas such as their ears. Thanks to the fact that they essentially have no coat, they are allergy friendly! However, just because they don’t have a coat, doesn’t mean they are completely maintenance free. Their leathery skin needs to be sponged down to remove the natural oil secretion. Preventing buildup of oil will make sure they stay as hypoallergenic as possible.
Their leathery skin needs to be sponged down to remove the natural oil secretion
#Russian Blue
These gentle, happy and affectionate cats have great personalities. They are easily adaptable, affectionate, empathetic, and like to spend their time both alone and with their family. However, this breed does shed more than the other cats on this list. So, if you have serious allergies, they may not be the best choice for you. But this breed does keep its coat pretty well-maintained and with some regular brushing this will help minimize any shedding and thus minimize allergens.
These gentle, happy and affectionate cats have great personalities
#Siberian
Just like the Balinese cat, the Siberian is though to have less of the Fel D1 protein which causes allergies. These cats are bigger than other breeds, they are fluffy, friendly and come in a ton of colors. However, this breed’s triple coat does mean they have some maintenance and will need weekly brushing. While they do shed with some weekly brushing you can minimize allergens and keep their coats nice and healthy. When it comes to their personality, the Siberian is smart, attentive and love to hang around people. They also don’t have trouble with other pets.
These cats are bigger than other breeds, they are fluffy, friendly and come in a ton of colors
#Bengal
The Bengal has skyrocketed in popularity as it’s a great hypoallergenic cat. These cats have a playful personality. They love to spend time with their human companions, and they also love to play with water! This exotic looking cat also produces less Fel D1 protein compared to other breeds. Most Bengal owners who have allergies report that these cats rarely trigger them. That’s as hypoallergenic as cats gets!
They love to spend time with their human companions
#Javanese
The Javanese cat is a great family cat. They are very smart, athletic, playful and love to snuggle. They also love to talk. This long haired breed may not seem like the best choice if you are searching for a hypoallergenic cat, however these cats have a very low-maintenance coat which has no undercoat. This breed is known as one of the lowest shedding breeds and with regular brushing you will most likely have no problems at all.
They are very smart, athletic, playful and love to snuggle
These were the best breeds of hypoallergenic cats you can welcome to your home. Don’t let allergies stop you from enjoying having a cat. Now that you know which breeds may be suitable for your allergies, you can safely make an educated choice.
Don’t let allergies stop you from enjoying having a cat
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