Having allergies doesn’t mean that you’re cursed to live a life without ever owning a cat. In fact, there are many cat breeds that are known for being hypoallergenic. This means you won’t have to constantly clean and dust your home to keep cat dandruff away.
If you’re not already familiar, hypoallergenic cats are ones that produce less allergens, which means that they in turn cause less reactions. Fel d1 is a protein in cats’ saliva that can cause allergic reactions and, while no cat is completely free of this protein, there are differing levels of it.
Let’s heck out this list of 9 hypoallergenic cats for people with allergies!
1. Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex is likely one of the most unique cat breeds on this list, not for its hypoallergenic qualities but for its curly fur. If you don’t mind a high maintenance cat, I would recommend checking out the Cornish Rex because they are indeed hypoallergenic.
Just make sure that you pencil in extra time for regular grooming and a play time session – these cats are not for the faint of heart!
2. Siberian
At first glance, you might not think that a Siberian cat could possibly be hypoallergenic, what with their long, thick fur. Thankfully, Siberian cats are considered to be hypoallergenic because they produce less of the Fed d1 protein that you’re sensitive to; this cat’s fur actually has nothing to do with how much or how little it affects your allergies.
Plus, Siberian cats are friendly and affectionate, which means that you also don’t have to give up on a loving family pet.
3. Oriental Shorthair
Oriental Shorthairs are beloved for their long, noisy presence in homes, but they are also a wonderful choice for those of us suffering from allergies.
These cats – known for their large ears and slim faces – are a high-end, hypoallergenic option that could check many of the boxes for you and your family!
4. Russian Blue
Russian Blue cats have become popular for their gorgeous gray coat that almost looks blue, hence the namesake. Russian Blues are a great choice for your household because these cats do not shed as much as other breeds of cats. There will be less cat fur for you to clean up, which is a saving grace for any cat owner whether they have allergies or not!
Stay on top of regular grooming of your Russian Blue, and you might not even need to invest in an expensive vacuum made specially for pet hair.
5. Sphynx
Sphynx cats are one of the most common and popular hypoallegenic cat breeds. Sphynx cats – also known as hairless cats – have less fur than any other breed of cat. While these cats are not completely bald (many have what is called peach fuzz), they do have very little fur compared to many other animals.
Less fur means that Sphynx cats are not grooming themselves nearly as much as numerous other breeds with fur, whether the cat’s fur is long or short. You will obviously see less shedding and clumps of hair around your home, meaning that you won’t have as much of an opportunity to react.
6. Siamese
Siamese cats are popular for American families for being social and intelligent. Did you know that Siamese cats are also considered to be one of the best hypoallergenic cat breeds as well?
Siamese cats are a double whammy for people who have allergies because they produce fewer allergens.
Like some other breeds, Siamese cats produce less of the Fel d1 protein in their saliva, meaning that you’re already less likely to have an allergic reaction. Plus, Siamese cats also don’t shed very much, so you’ll have even fewer chances of having their fur float around your home.
7. Bengal
Bengal cats may not be the first choice for people with allergies, but Bengal cats are more hypoallergenic than other cat breeds. Bengal cats do not produce less Fel d1 protein or shed less than other cat breeds, so why would I consider them hypoallergenic?
Well, Bengal cats are a great breed if you like to groom your cat. Bengals have a short, silky coat that is easy to manage. With regular grooming and consistent vacuuming of soft surfaces in your home, there is a good chance that you will be able to manage your allergies if you’re drawn to a Bengal cat.
8. Devon Rex
Looking for a furry friend that acts like a dog but smaller than one? Check out the Devon Rex!
The Devon Rex isn’t for everyone because it has big eyes and ears with a small head. Some even refer to this breed as the alien cat! Quirky looks aside, the Devon Rex should be on your list of cats that are hypoallergenic.
Like some others on this list, the Devon Rex has low levels of Fel d1 protein. The Devon Rex also doesn’t shred as much, which is a win-win.
9. Burmese
Last to make our list is the Burmese cat breed. Burmese cats have a great combination of everything that we’ve talked about in other cat breeds, making them another ideal option for someone looking to limit their allergic response to feline friends.
The Burmese has short hair that does not shed as often as some other breeds of cats. Their fur also stays manageable without as much grooming as some other breeds we’ve already talked about, so if you don’t like to groom your cat, then that will be a plus for you.
