Well, are Russian Blues hypoallergenic? Simply because you have cat allergies does not mean you dislike cats. It is a horrible irony that you may be allergic to a pet you absolutely adore! If you find yourself in this situation, you may seek hypoallergenic cats as a remedy. These cat breeds is believed to be less dangerous to individuals with cat allergies.
Russian Blue cats are medium-sized felines with gentle, affectionate dispositions. They have extremely soft coats and a sophisticated appearance, but are they hypoallergenic? Yes, technically speaking, Russian Blue cats may be considered hypoallergenic. However, this does not always imply that they are the solution to your allergy problems. Let’s examine this breed more closely to determine if it suits you.
Why do people develop allergies to cats?
If you have cat allergies, you may not even know what causes them. Certain, you are aware that cats trigger your allergies, but what is the exact process by which this occurs?
As it turns out, the cause is an allergy known as Fel D1. Approximately 10% of the population is allergic to this allergen, which is present in cat saliva. As a grooming technique, cats constantly lick themselves, which causes Fel D1 to accumulate on their fur. This is then discharged into the air and ground of your home, where it produces an allergic reaction in your body.
How can Russian blue cats trigger allergic reactions?
The most widespread misunderstanding regarding hypoallergenic cats is that they never cause allergic responses. Consequently, the majority of owners suffer from allergies unprepared. Therefore, it is essential to comprehend how your hypoallergenic cat can induce allergic reactions. In doing so, attempt to determine the source of the response by analyzing the following three factors:
- Fel d 1 production
- Dander levels
- Shedding
The allergen Fel d 1 is the primary cause of cat allergy. It is a protein found in the sebaceous glands, anal glands, and saliva of cats. Fel d 1 is not always dangerous. However, the immune system of a person with allergies is hypersensitive and identifies these compounds as hazardous. And when the body fights against it, you get allergic reactions.
On average, Russian Blue cats produce less Fel d 1; hence, they are hypoallergenic. They also do not shed excessively; thus, their dander is insufficient to trigger your allergies. Considering these three factors, we can conclude that Russian Blue cats are relatively allergy-friendly. However, we cannot disregard the infrequent occasions where these felines trigger allergic reactions.
Are Russian Blue cats a good pet for allergy sufferers?
There are only a few cat breeds that are labelled hypoallergenic. Fortunately, Russian Blues are included on this elite list. They are a small set of felines producing fewer Fel D1 allergen molecules. Therefore, if you have a mild cat allergy, a Russian Blue may be a breed that you can tolerate. However, if you have a severe cat allergy, the effect will likely be too severe for you to maintain a cat at home.
How to reduce allergies caused by a Russian blue cat
If you are determined to bring a cat into your home despite having allergies, you must be willing to take extra precautions for your health. Some allergic reactions are still possible, even if a Russian Blue cat is hypoallergenic. Here are some techniques to enhance your defenses and reduce allergies caused by a Russian Blue cat:
Frequently vacuum and dust your surroundings
Clean, squeaky-clean surroundings prevent you from inhaling your Russian Blue cat’s loose fur. Vacuum your floors, carpets, furniture, walls, worktops, and your cat’s preferred locations.
Invest in a vacuum with microfiltration to ensure that it can remove even the smallest particles. Regularly wiping down sofas and furniture will lower airborne pollutants by 95%. Consider applying furniture polish to surfaces to eliminate dust particles.
Utilize an air cleaner
According to studies, a HEPA purifier or HEPA vacuum can remove 99.97% of all mold, pollen, germs, dust mites, and other airborne particles. We recommend using portable air purifiers so that you are always protected. It is most effective in rooms containing several textiles, such as the bedroom, laundry, and carpeted rooms.
Keep your Russian blue out of your bedroom
If you have allergies, avoiding cuddling or sleeping with your cat in your bedroom can be tough. However, the bedroom is filled with materials that easily catch cat fur.
Early on, teach your Russian Blue that the bedroom is off-limits by always closing the door, ignoring door scratching, or erecting door obstacles. Additionally, you can install their litter box outside your bedroom.
Routinely clean and replace your bedsheets
If you cannot avoid snuggling with your cat in bed, you should wash your sheets every three to five days. Whenever necessary, act more frequently.
Additionally, you may wish to get cotton or linen bedding. These materials are hypoallergenic. Therefore they will provide further protection against allergens. Using various types of bed covers can increase the likelihood of hair accumulation and allergen sensitivity.
Regular hand washing
Always wash your hands after playing with your Russian Blue (or Russian White) cat or touching an object your cat frequently uses. Since allergens can adhere to any surface, it is prudent always to maintain clean hands. Take care not to contact your face after touching your cat, its toys, other belongings, or any surface with fur. Your eyes, nose, and mouth are highly susceptible to allergens, so be cautious.
Play with your Russian Blue in pajamas or long sleeves
It would help if you went to great lengths to prevent causing allergies, especially during the shedding season of your Russian Blue cat. Long-sleeved shirts and pajamas can help reduce exposure to allergens. It would help if you changed soon after playing with your kitty companion to prevent transferring dust or fur to your exposed skin.
Medication
Modern allergy medicines do wonder against most allergies – including cat allergy. Speak to your doctor first, of course.
Conclusion
The truth is that there are no cats that are ideal for people with severe cat allergies. However, if you have moderate cat allergies, a Russian Blue is one breed that may have less of an effect on you. Your best bet is to locate a Russian Blue and spend time with it to determine your reaction. Even if Russian Blues may not trigger an allergic reaction in every cat-allergic individual, your experience may differ.
Image credit: beornbjorn on Deposit Photos
