If you suffer from cat allergies don’t despair, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can never own a cat.
There are some cat breeds that are hypoallergenic!
So, which cats are hypoallergenic, and what does this mean exactly for those with cat allergies that end up with puffy eyes and an itchy nose whenever they come into contact with a cat!
Does Hypoallergenic Pets Mean You Won’t Experience Allergic Reactions?
Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a 100% guarantee that you will not experience any allergic reactions to pets that are classed as ‘hypoallergenic’.
People who experience all those allergic reactions to cats, such as watering and stinging eyes, runny nose, sneezing etc, are usually allergic to the dander from their fur and their saliva.
Hypoallergenic breeds are the breeds that shed the least fur and produce less saliva. Which is why people have less allergic symptoms around them.
As I already mentioned, however, it’s still not a 100% guarantee. If you’re thinking about buying a hypoallergenic cat for these reasons I recommend visiting one a few times first to see how you feel.
Which Cats Are Hypoallergenic: Top Allergy-Free Breeds
Sphynx
The Sphynx is instantly recognizable with its wide-eyes, big ears, and of course, no fur!
No fur means no shedding of fur. Which not only is this a huge plus when it comes to cleaning up around the home, it means the Sphynx is a hypoallergenic breed and very easy on allergy sufferers.
They make lovely pets too. They are affectionate to humans, follow their owners around and enjoy being social with them, and easy to look after.
Siberian
The Siberian cat produces fewer allergens than the average cat and has less of the Fel d 1 protein in their saliva, which is believed to be responsible for a lot of allergies.
They do have semi-long coats so it’s an option for someone who wants a nice soft cat to stroke, opposed to the feel of a Sphynx that isn’t for everyone.
They are fascinating pets too. They are extremely agile, intelligent, and known for getting along well with other pets, children, all the family.
Devon Rex
The Devon Rex has a distinctive look with a tight, short coat of curly hair. Stroking one certainly doesn’t feel like a soft domestic cat, and they shed a lot less fur.
They are described as being like a poodle that purrs. They wag their tails like dogs when they are happy and have a similar feel to a poodle.
They are known for being very active and even a little mischievous. They get on well with all other animals and people and enjoy being part of a loving family.
Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex is similar to its Devon cousin as you’d expect. They have very short fur and shed a small amount, making them perfect for people allergic to cat dander.
Their coat feels very different to what you would expect. They don’t have guard hairs like other breeds, so their coats feel very silky. It’s nice to stroke.
Be prepared for a lively pet if you’re going to adopt one. They love to climb and explore and are prone to bursts of energy that they burn off sprinting and jumping.
Balinese-Javanese
The Balinese-Javanese is known as the ‘longhaired Siamese,’ and although it has a medium length coat it has less of the Fel D1 protein and causes less allergy flare ups.
It’s an intelligent breed, loves communicating with humans, and forms strong bonds with its owners.
They are less vocal than the Siamese and their tail plume sets them apart. But have a similar look with their long muscular bodies and big ears.
Siamese
The Siamese is also a decently hypoallergenic cat breed.
Which Cats Are Not Hypoallergenic?
So basically, this would be all other cats. Siberians, Maine Coons, Persians, Munchkins and other long haired breeds are not really conducive to allergic owners.
There you go, five of the most popular hypoallergenic cats that will give you all the love, affection, and joy of owning a cat without the watering eyes and sneezing!
This isn’t a complete list, there are some other breeds like the Bengal, Russian Blue, Oriental Shorthair, Ocicat, and a few others.
But these are the most popular, friendly and easiest cats to home.
Good luck, and may you and your cat live free from the symptoms of allergies for many years!