Want to Have a Cat in Your Home, but Unfortunately Suffer From Allergies?
Perhaps you’ve tried dealing with this by taking antihistamines, or even have a fancy air filter at home to keep the dander at bay. Well, did you know the term “hypoallergenic pet” doesn’t only apply to dogs, but applies to cats as well?
Do Hypoallergenic Cats Really Exist?
A few cat breeds do exist that are considered low allergy or ‘hypoallergenic’. This is due to the fact that they produce fewer allergens than others. Cats do produce pet dander, a common allergen, but the REAL culprit for the estimated 10 percent of the population who are allergic to cats may actually be a protein called Fel d 1, that is present in the cat’s saliva.
Technically speaking, there are no 100 percent hypoallergenic domestic cats or cats that are entirely non-allergenic. All cats produce some amount of dander, so you won’t have any luck finding a dander free cat. However, there are some breeds that produce a lot less of it, therefore making them good cats for people with allergies. The following list of the top 3 “hypoallergenic” cats is a guideline of recommendations for people who want to adopt a feline friend, yet feel their options are limited because of allergies:
#1. Siberian
The Siberian cat breed is affectionate and intelligent, and rarely unable to solve its own problems. The cat is also attracted to water, occasionally throwing toys in it or playing around it. Despite the cat’s size, the Siberian is quite agile and can easily jump onto bookcases or on top of cupboards.
#2. Balinese
This breed is ranked as one of the most intelligent of cat breeds, and is also remarkable for its good humor, good nature, and high energy. Getting along well with both animals and people is one of the strongest qualities the Balinese possess. Its intelligence naturally pushes it to the top of the hierarchy amongst other animals, but it is amiable enough not to lord its superiority over them. Getting along with children is also one of the main pluses, but care must be taken not to allow active children to mishandle them, lest child-averse behavior form.
#3. Bengal
Because of its feral lineage, the Bengal is often assumed to be difficult to handle, but the reverse is true. Breeders insist that the Bengal can be tamed easily and has an affectionate personality, though it is not a lap cat. However, it does enjoy human company, and will often stay close to its family members. The Bengal cat breed particularly enjoys the company of children, since its energetic nature makes it very fond of playing games.
Don’t Let Allergies Stop You From Adding a Feline Friend to Your Family!
Hopefully this list has given you hope that you can still adopt a cat into your home despite your allergies! Although no cat is 100% hypoallergenic, these breeds with less of the protein, Fel d 1, that is present in the cat’s saliva, can ease the intensity of your allergy symptoms!
Do you have an allergy to cats? If so, which breed do YOU have? Let us know in the comments below!
