Are you one of the millions worldwide who suffer from cat allergies but still dream of having a feline companion? You’re not alone. Studies show that cat allergies affect up to 20% of the global population.1
While no cat is truly hypoallergenic, certain breeds produce fewer allergens than others. In fact, some cat breeds are considered more tolerable for allergy sufferers due to their unique characteristics.
Here are 15 cat breeds that may be a better fit for those with allergies.
1. Siberian
The Siberian cat, hailing from Russia, is known for its luxurious long coat and affectionate personality. Surprisingly, this fluffy feline is considered hypoallergenic due to producing lower levels of the Fel d 1 protein, the primary allergen in cats.
Siberians are intelligent, playful, and adaptable cats that thrive in family environments. They are also known for their love of water, often enjoying a splash in the sink or a dip in the bathtub.
With regular grooming to minimize shedding, the Siberian can be a great choice for allergy sufferers looking for a loving companion.
2. Balinese
Often referred to as the “longhaired Siamese,” the elegant Balinese is another breed that produces less of the Fel d 1 protein, making it a suitable choice for those with allergies. Despite their long, silky coat, Balinese cats have a single layer of fur that doesn’t mat easily, resulting in less shedding and dander.
Known for their intelligence and vocal nature, Balinese cats are social creatures that love to be involved in their human’s activities. They are also highly trainable and enjoy learning new tricks.
If you’re looking for a talkative and affectionate companion, the Balinese might be the perfect fit.
3. Russian Blue
The Russian Blue, with its striking silver-blue coat and emerald green eyes, is not only a beautiful breed but also one that is well-suited for allergy sufferers. This short-haired cat produces less dander and allergens compared to other breeds, making it a popular choice for those with sensitivities.
Originating in Russia, the Russian Blue is known for its gentle and reserved nature. They are intelligent, loyal, and form strong bonds with their favorite humans.
While they may be shy around strangers, Russian Blues are playful and affectionate with their trusted family members.
4. Bengal
For those who admire the exotic look of wild cats, the Bengal might be the perfect hypoallergenic choice. This breed, developed by crossing domestic cats with Asian Leopard Cats, has a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. Bengals are also known to produce lower levels of allergens compared to other breeds.
Bengals are active, curious, and highly intelligent cats that require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They enjoy playing fetch, learning tricks, and even going for walks on a leash.
With their striking spotted or marbled coats and energetic personalities, Bengals are sure to keep you entertained.
5. Sphynx
The hairless Sphynx is often the first breed that comes to mind when thinking of hypoallergenic cats. While they may lack fur, Sphynxes still produce allergens through their skin oils and saliva. However, regular bathing can help minimize the presence of these allergens in your home.
Sphynxes are known for their outgoing, friendly, and curious nature. They crave attention and love to be involved in every aspect of their human’s life. Due to their lack of fur, Sphynxes require special care to keep their skin healthy and protected from the elements.
6. Devon Rex
The Devon Rex, with its wavy, short coat and large ears, is another breed that is often recommended for allergy sufferers. Their unique coat requires less grooming than other breeds, resulting in reduced shedding and dander.
Devon Rexes are known for their mischievous and playful personalities. They are intelligent, active, and love to be the center of attention. These social cats thrive on human interaction and make wonderful companions for those who can keep up with their energetic nature.
7. Cornish Rex
Similar to the Devon Rex, the Cornish Rex has a short, curly coat that produces less dander than other breeds. Their soft, wavy fur requires minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance choice for allergy sufferers.
Cornish Rexes are known for their acrobatic abilities and love of high perches. They are active, curious, and enjoy playing fetch and learning new tricks. These affectionate cats love to be close to their humans and will often follow them from room to room.
8. Oriental Shorthair
The Oriental Shorthair, with its sleek, short coat and elegant appearance, is another breed that produces fewer allergens than other cats. Their fine, glossy fur requires minimal grooming, helping to reduce the presence of dander in your home.
Oriental Shorthairs are known for their outgoing, social, and talkative nature. They are intelligent, curious, and love to be involved in every aspect of their human’s life. These affectionate cats thrive on attention and make wonderful companions for those who appreciate their lively personalities.
9. Javanese
The Javanese, a longhaired relative of the Siamese, is another breed that produces less of the Fel d 1 protein. Despite their longer coat, Javanese cats have a single layer of fur that doesn’t mat easily, resulting in less shedding and dander.
Javanese cats are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and vocal nature. They are social creatures that love to be near their humans and are often described as “dog-like” in their behavior.
If you’re looking for a talkative and affectionate companion, the Javanese might be the perfect fit.
10. Ocicat
The Ocicat, with its wild-looking spotted coat, is a short-haired breed that produces fewer allergens than other cats. Their sleek, low-maintenance coat requires minimal grooming, making them a suitable choice for allergy sufferers.
Ocicats are known for their confident, outgoing, and adaptable nature. They are intelligent and active and enjoy playing fetch and learning new tricks. These social cats thrive on human interaction and get along well with other pets, making them a great addition to family households.
11. Burmese
The Burmese, with its short, silky coat and expressive eyes, is another breed that is often recommended for allergy sufferers. Their fine, low-shedding fur requires minimal grooming, helping to reduce the presence of dander in your home.
Burmese cats are known for their affectionate, people-oriented nature. They are intelligent, playful, and love to be involved in every aspect of their human’s life. These social cats thrive on attention and make wonderful companions for those who appreciate their devoted personalities.
12. Colorpoint Shorthair
The Colorpoint Shorthair, a cousin of the Siamese, is a short-haired breed that produces fewer allergens than other cats. Their fine, glossy coat requires minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance choice for allergy sufferers.
Colorpoint Shorthairs are known for their intelligent, curious, and vocal nature. They are social creatures that love to be near their humans and are often described as “talkative” in their behavior.
If you’re looking for a lively and affectionate companion, the Colorpoint Shorthair might be the perfect fit.
13. LaPerm
The LaPerm, with its unique curly coat, is a breed that produces fewer allergens than other cats. Their low-shedding fur requires minimal grooming, making them a suitable choice for allergy sufferers.
LaPerms are friendly, outgoing, and adaptable. They are intelligent, active, and enjoy playing and exploring their surroundings. These social cats thrive on human interaction and make wonderful companions for those who appreciate their lively personalities.
14. Siamese
The Siamese, with its striking blue eyes and sleek, short coat, is another breed that produces fewer allergens than other cats. Their fine, low-shedding fur requires minimal grooming, helping to reduce the presence of dander in your home.
Siamese cats are intelligent, vocal, and people-oriented. They are social creatures that love to be near their humans and are often described as “talkative” in their behavior.
If you’re looking for a devoted and entertaining companion, the Siamese might be the perfect fit.
15. Snowshoe
The Snowshoe, a cross between the Siamese and American Shorthair, is a short-haired breed that produces fewer allergens than other cats. Their low-shedding coat requires minimal grooming, making them a suitable choice for allergy sufferers.
Snowshoes are known for their friendly, outgoing, and adaptable nature. They are intelligent, playful, and enjoy interacting with their humans. These social cats thrive on attention and make wonderful companions for those who appreciate their affectionate personalities.
When considering adopting a cat as an allergy sufferer, it’s essential to spend time with the individual cat to gauge your reaction. Remember that factors such as gender, coat color, and grooming habits can also influence allergen production.
With proper care and management, it is possible for many allergy sufferers to enjoy the companionship of a feline friend.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.