Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

I’m Allergic to Cats: Can I Get a Hypoallergenic Cat?

While there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic cat, there are many breeds that are less likely to trigger a reaction. Though we heavily recommend against adopting a pet and “hoping for the best,” we think these guidelines may help you schedule a few kitty play dates to find the breed that’s right for you.

Bengal

Selectively bred to mimic the look of jungle cats, the Bengal is a surprisingly gentle creature. Known for their large spots and rosette patterns on their coat, the Bengal most closely resembles an ocelot or leopard – though we wouldn’t suggest inviting one of those jungle cats to live in your home. Fortunately, the Bengal is a friendly alternative that also produces less dander than some other breeds.

Balinese

Known for their strikingly blue eyes, Balinese cats are a natural mutation of the Siamese breed, another allergy friendly kitty. Widely considered the most intelligent long-haired cat, the Balinese produces low amounts of the Fel d1 protein, which is a common trigger for cat allergy sufferers.

Burmese

Originally bred in Southeast Asia, the Burmese cat is now a popular breed in the United States. The breed has evolved since its American introduction, and how has a slightly different head and body shape than the original, but all Burmese cats are known for being playful and vocal (and surprisingly low dander!).

Siamese

Native to Thailand, the Siamese cat is known for its blue, almond shaped eyes and triangular head topped with large ears. Siamese cats also typically have thin, sleek bodies and are affectionate and social.

Siberian

Hailing from Russia, Siberian cats sure do know how to make a statement. Their long, thick fur coats may not seem like a super allergy friendly option, but they are known to produce less Fel d1 than other breeds, making the risks of allergic reaction lower than one would imagine.

 

Don’t get discouraged if you have trouble finding a cat that doesn’t trigger your allergens. Every animal is different and we believe there’s a furry friend out there for everyone!

 

Be sure to check back here for more cat facts and quick tips, and keep the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill in mind if you find a furry friend who needs medical services or a check-up. Give us a call at (856) 662 2662 and one of our passionate doctors would be happy to help you.

 

Five Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds

cats for people with allergies

Photo Credit: Robert Couse–Baker

Are you saddened by your cat or pet allergy? Wipe away your tears! There is a possibility that you can adopt a cat and still avoid red, puffy eyes.

If you want to get technical, 100% hypoallergenic cats do not exist, or research studies have not fully proven it yet. However, there are many breeds that produce fewer allergies than others. We suggest scheduling a play date with a hypoallergenic cat before making a commitment, in case your allergies are severe.

(Helpful fact: Cats produce pet dander, which is an allergen, but the major culprit that accounts for 10% of allergies is most likely a protein called “Fel d1”, which is found in cat saliva.)

Without further ado, here are five cat breeds that people with allergies should consider adopting!

1. Siberian. These majestic creatures hail from Russia. Their gorgeous fur coats make a statement! The Siberian cat is an ancient breed that is believed to be ancestral to all modern long-haired cats. Studies have shown that Siberian cats produce less Fel d1 than other breeds, which is good news for allergic people.

2. Siamese. The Siamese cat is a popular breed that is native to Thailand. They are recognized by their blue, almond-shaped eyes, large ears, a triangular-shaped head, and a thin, sleek body. These cats are intelligent, affectionate, and very social.

3. Balinese. The Balinese originated as a natural mutation of the Siamese breed. These cats are known for their startling sapphire-blue eyes, and Siamese-style point coloration. They are considered to be the most intelligent of the long-haired breeds. The Balinese is another breed that produces low amounts of Fel d1 protein allergy.

4. Bengal. The Bengal cat came about from selective breeding to imitate the felines of the jungle, such as the leopard and ocelot. They are known for their large spots and rosette patterns on their fur. Their taxonomic name is “Asian leopard cat.” These cats may look wild, but they are actually very gentle creatures.

5. Burmese. The Burmese breed originated in Southeast Asia, and later developed in the United States. In 1930, a cat from Burma was bred with an American Siamese, creating the Burmese cat. Both American and British breeders developed two different breed standards that contrast mostly in head and body shape. Both varieties are known for their playful temperaments and vocalization.

And that’s not all! There are many more hypoallergenic cats that give hope to the allergy-plagued world.

Check back for more information about cat breeds and cat facts. And if your own feline friend is in need of medical services or a check-up, you know who to call…the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill! One of our passionate doctors would be glad to lend your pal a hand.

Call us at (856) 662-2662 or see where we’re located and stop in!