7 Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds for Cat Allergy Sufferers

Love cats, but have never been able to share your humble abode with any of them because of the word "dreaded": allergies? You're not alone! According to the American College of Allergy, 10% of the population is allergic to companions, with cat allergies being twice as common among Americans as canine allergies. So, is there a solution to the problem? Kinda-sorta. Races of hypoallergenic cats. It sounds more like fiction than anything else, but hypoallergenic cat breeds do exist - making coexistence with cats a dream come true for people with allergies!

First, are there breeds of hypoallergenic cats?

"Hypoallergenic breeds do exist, and some even have long hair," says Sasha Gibbons, DVM at Just Cats Veterinary Hospital in Stamford, Connecticut. "Contrary to popular belief, these are not the hair that people are allergic, but the saliva proteins that are introduced on the coat through grooming or dander (dead skin cells) in the coat. Some breeds produce less protein that causes a reaction, making them easier to tolerate for people with cat allergies. "

1. The Sphynx

At the top of our list of hypoallergenic cat breeds is a breed that may not surprise you ... the Sphynx. Its lack of fur makes it numero uno when it comes to hypoallergenic cat breeds, but that does not mean it comes without maintenance. A daily cleaning of the ears will keep his big ears in perfect condition, while weekly baths will prevent the accumulation of oil!

2. The Cornish Rex

The hairless Sphynx is followed by two lovely kittens of the Rex lineage: Cornish and Devon. The Cornish Rex is only covered with a fluffy undercoat, unlike the three fur layers (outer, middle and lower) of most breeds, making it the most hypoallergenic of the duo. It also makes him a bit more demanding in terms of maintenance because, like the Sphynx, he needs weekly baths to avoid the accumulation of oil on his skin.

3. The Devonshire Rex

Nicknamed the "Monkey in Cat Suit" because of his circus jokes, the short and curly Devonshire Rex does not need the same baths as the Cornish Rex. However, its foot pads and ears lend themselves to frequent cleaning to remove oil deposits.

4. The Siberian

Recognized for its moderately long coat, the Siberian is the last breed you expect on the list of hypoallergenic cat breeds, but here it is! In fact, the Siberian cat produces less FelD1 protein and dander than other cat breeds, making it the cat's meow for people with allergies.

5. The Balinese

Two more for the long-haired team: Balinese and Javanese. Like the Siberian, the Balinese (known for its long-haired Siamese beauty) is another of those breeds of hypoallergenic cats that produce less FelD1 protein. Therefore, its presence is more pleasant for people with allergies than, for example, a Persian.

6. The Javanese

And the Javanese? It lacks an undercoat, which equates to less fur, and less fur gives ... less allergens!

7. Bengal

Due to its leopard appearance (it has Asian leopard cats genes in the blood), Bengal has been a fan favorite of cat lovers for years, but it is also an incredible choice for hypoallergenic cat breeds. . Bengals groom themselves less often than other breeds. Its fur therefore contains less FelD1 protein, making it an exotic option for your hypoallergenic household!