11 Best Cats For Allergy Sufferers – Ultimate Guide
Allergies don’t have to rule out a cat. Some breeds cause fewer symptoms than others, and these 11 are the ones allergy sufferers tend to get on with best.
Hypoallergenic or Allergy Friendly?
First, a distinction. The terms hypoallergenic and allergy-friendly are often used interchangeably, but they mean slightly different things.
A hypoallergenic cat is usually one from a breed that produces fewer allergens, such as dander or the Fel d 1 protein, which are known to trigger allergic reactions. No cat is truly hypoallergenic (producing zero allergens), but some breeds produce less than others.
An allergy-friendly cat may not be hypoallergenic, but has traits that suit people with allergies, such as minimal shedding or less grooming.
Sphynx Cats
Hairless, and a top choice for allergy sufferers. With no fur to shed, there is less hair spreading allergens around the house. They’re wrinkly, too.
Balinese Cats
Long, luscious fur and striking blue eyes make the Balinese look like an odd choice for allergy sufferers. But they have low levels of the Fel d 1 protein (a common allergen), which makes them a good option.
Siberian Cats
The thick, triple-layered coat makes the Siberian an unlikely contender. But they produce lower levels of allergenic proteins, so they suit allergy sufferers who can’t resist their majestic looks.
Read More: Are Siberian Cats Hypoallergenic?
Russian Blue Cats
Sleek and elegant, with a silver-blue coat, and known for producing fewer allergens. Their short, dense fur means less shedding and less chance of setting off your allergies.
Devon Rex Cats
The Devon Rex has an unusual curly coat that sheds less than most breeds. Their short, soft fur means fewer allergens floating around your home, and they’re playful and affectionate.
Cornish Rex Cats
Like the Devon Rex, the Cornish Rex has a curly coat that cuts down on shedding. Their fine, soft hair is less likely to trigger reactions, so you can enjoy their mischief without your allergies acting up.
Oriental Shorthair Cats
Slim and sleek, with striking almond-shaped eyes, and they produce fewer allergens. Their short, fine fur makes them a good option for allergy sufferers who still want an elegant cat.
Javanese Cats
The long, silky coat doesn’t look hypoallergenic at first glance. But reduced levels of allergenic proteins can make them suitable for people with allergies who want a touch of luxury.
Bengal Cats
Known for their leopard-like spots and playful personalities, Bengals produce fewer allergenic proteins than other breeds. The short, dense coat may still trigger allergies in some people, but many allergy sufferers tolerate them quite well.
Read More: Are Bengal Cats Hypoallergenic?
Abyssinian Cats
Short, ticked coats and almond-shaped eyes, and they produce fewer allergens. They’re active and sociable.
Burmese Cats
Affectionate, with glossy, short coats. Reduced levels of allergenic proteins make them appealing to allergy sufferers who want a loving, snuggly cat.
Read More: Are Burmese Cats Hypoallergenic?
Is A Cat Right For you?
Having allergies doesn’t mean you have to miss out on owning a cat.
A hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly breed can mean far less sneezing and sniffling, and there are options to suit different tastes, from the hairless Sphynx to the elegant Russian Blue.
Spend time with the specific breed you’re considering before you commit, to see how you react. Hypoallergenic cats may produce fewer allergens, but individual sensitivities still vary. Regular grooming, a clean home and advice from your allergist can help too.
Read More About Hypoallergenic Cats
All cats produce the Fel d1 protein which is present in their saliva, fur and urine. This protein is what triggers allergic reactions in humans.
Some breeds produce more or less than others and may be better suited to allergy sufferers.
When cats shed fur, groom themselves and use the litter box, they spread the Fel d1 protein around your home, which can cause allergies if you come into contact with it.
Read More: Are Any Cats Hypoallergenic?
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it takes careful management to limit exposure and allergic reactions.
Keep the cat out of your bedroom, use high-efficiency air purifiers, clean your home regularly to reduce allergens, wash your hands after handling the cat, and consider allergy medication or immunotherapy.
No. There is currently no vaccine designed to reduce allergies to cats, though some research is exploring possible immunotherapies.
Some people build up tolerance or become less sensitive to cat allergens over time, but not everyone does. It varies from person to person.
Not usually on their own. Some people have fewer symptoms over time, especially if they limit their exposure to cats.
They can, especially with repeated or prolonged exposure to cat allergens, but not for everyone. It depends on individual sensitivity.