As a cat lover who is allergic, you might have heard the term hypoallergenic cat thrown about. In fact, so-called hypoallergenic cats are commonly promoted as the answer for people who want to have a pet but simply cannot due to allergies. So what does that even mean? However, are these all cats truly hypoallergenic and is this something you should be looking for in a pet. Here, we will go over what hypoallergenic cats are. They are a good option for anyone who has allergies and a few benefits of having one in your life.
What is a Hypoallergenic Cat?
First, let’s clear up a common misconception: No cat is completely allergen-free. However, a hypoallergenic cat is a breed that tends to produce fewer allergens than other cats. These cats either shed less fur or produce lower amounts of the protein Fel d 1, which is found in cat saliva, urine, and skin oils. This protein is the primary culprit behind most allergic reactions to cats.
When cats groom themselves, the Fel d 1 protein gets transferred to their fur. As the fur dries, the allergen becomes airborne and eventually lands on surfaces around your home, which leads to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. A hypoallergenic cat either has less fur to spread around or produces less of this allergenic protein, making them a more suitable choice for people with cat allergies.
What Makes Hypoallergenic Cats different?
While there are hypoallergenic cats that have shorter coats, likely not releasing as much fur or dander, in other cases it has more to do with the texture of their fur, and (in the case of a Sphynx) even with them being hairless. The more hairless Sphynx cat, for instance, contains less airborne allergens. Other hypoallergenic breeds, such as the Siberian or Balinese have long hair but still produce lower levels of the Fel d 1 protein.
It would be beneficial to remember that calling a pet hypoallergenic does not denote lack of any allergic effects. Still, because sensitivities differ from one person to another, some people may perhaps react to a hypoallergenic cat. Until, that is, cricked neck–style allergy sufferers decide to adopt these cats over regular cats and find that they trigger many fewer symptoms.
Is it okay to pet a hypoallergenic cat?
This same issue is also a fundamental question for individuals who are allergic to cats, and it’s one area where everyone should do a little more research before welcoming a pet into their home. There is no fixed answer to this question and instead, the answers primarily depend on how severe your allergies are. In some cases, a hypoallergenic cat breed can mean the difference between living with a constant allergy-or asthma-trigger reaction or not. But if your allergies are more than usual, or they start to trigger an asthma attack then you might want to be a little careful.
If you are considering adopting a hypoallergenic cat, you should spend some time with the specific breed as well. However, other than that misinformation, many cat breeds can kick off an allergic reaction despite being classified as hypoallergenic. After just a few hours with the particular cat, your body can tell you if this is something it is capable of doing peacefully.
The second question is whether you will follow through with additional methods for reducing allergens in your home? Keep your house clean with frequent vacuuming, air purifiers and regular grooming of your allergen-producing cat even if it is hypoallergenic! The extra buffer can further reduce airborne allergens and thus increase your overall wellbeing.
Benefits of Owning a Hypoallergenic Cat
There are many benefits to owning a hypoallergenic cat, especially for animal lovers who suffer from allergies. Below are a few of the most compelling benefits:
1. Reduced Allergy Symptoms
The biggest advantage of owning a hypoallergenic cat is minimizing allergy symptoms. These cats, which are not completely allergy-free, could significantly decrease the sneezing and watery eyes of people affected by cat allergies. Most people with minor allergies discover they can live with a hypoallergenic cat without the need for constant medication or other interventions.
2. Wider Variety of Cat Breeds
There are many different breeds of hypoallergenic cats which is great. Top Hypoallergenic Cat BreedsThere are a few hypoallergenic cat breeds including the Siberian, Balinese, Devon Rex, and Sphynx. There are many of them out there to choose from, and each breed has slightly different care needs, characteristics, and appearance creating the opportunity for a cat that should be perfect for everyone! With this variety, you can choose a pet that suits both your allergies and aesthetic preferences.
3. Improved Air Quality at Home
Hypoallergy cats: They shed less and release fewer allergenic substances into the air, which in turn can only have a beneficial effect on the air in your home. This advantage is available to the other members living in the same house and not just rouesufferers all defeated allergies. With cleaner air there will be fewer allergens floating around your home as well which can just lead to a healthier environment in general. Furthermore, typical cats cleansing exercises will lower the number of allergens when dwelling with your invited guests.
4. Pet Ownership is Good For Your Feelings
They also offer emotional comfort, reduce stress and help to fight off loneliness. A cat can be a great companion, especially if you’re living alone and/or working from home. Petting and playing with a cat can actually lead to reduce blood pressure and anxiety. A hypoallergenic cat allows you to enjoy all these emotional advantages without needing to fight with allergies constantly. Nevertheless, the happiness of acquiring one pets overcomes occasional minor allergic reactions.
5. Low Maintenance Grooming
The hair of most hypoallergenic breeds do not shed or produce dander as much, thus there is little grooming required compared to other cats. Some, like the Devon Rex, have short curly coats that obviate shedding problems without demanding onerous grooming (and at the other extreme we have hairless Sphynx who require more frequent skin care than most cats require fur grooming). Additionally, with less shedding, there is also less cat hair on your furniture and clothing to clean up. Furthermore, the constant grooming of a hypoallergenic cat also assist in managing allergen circulation.
Common Hypoallergenic Cats Breed
Before you adopt a hypoallergenic cat you must research the breed to make sure it is a match for your allergies and your lifestyle. Many of the most popular hypoallergenic breeds include:
- Siberian: This breed of cat has long hair which gives them a luxurious appearance, as well as less allergens. It may be a good choice for people who suffer from allergies.
- Balinese: Named the “long-haired Siamese,” the Balinese provides somewhat less Fel d 1 than short-haired Siamese counterparts.
- Devon Rex: The Devon shines with their short, curly fur which sheds infrequently — perfect for an allergy-prone owner.
- Sphynx: The hairless, wrinkled Sphynx is a high-maintenance cat breed requiring regular skin care but no grooming requirements otherwise.
All of these breeds have different traits making it important to be around a dog before deciding.
Living with a hypoallergenic cats
If you do choose to have a hypoallergenic cat, follow these tips as well to reduce allergens in your home:
- Frequent Grooming: Regular brushing (for breeds with fur) and bathing can help reduce allergens.
- Clean Living Space: Vacuum your home regularly and use an air purifier to capture airborne allergens.
- Limit Cat Access: Restricting your cat’s access to certain areas, like your bedroom, can help reduce exposure to allergens.
Conclusion: Should You Get a Hypoalljson Cats?
In summary, a hypoallergenic cat is a good choice for those with cat allergies who still want pets. While no cat is completely hypoallergenic, these cats produce fewer allergens than regular cats. This can significantly reduce allergic reactions. With the right breed and measures to limit allergens, you can enjoy a hypoallergenic cat without constant allergy flare-ups.
If you’re considering adopting a hypoallergenic cat, research different breeds first. Visit the cats to see if they fit your allergy and lifestyle needs. With proper care and preparation, a hypoallergenic cat can be a wonderful addition to your home, providing a loving companion without allergy issues