Hypoallergenic Cats: Breeds and Facts To Know

We were overdue for a cat feature so given this month hosts several cat observances, and given we received a tip on hypoallergenic cats, it all aligned.
If you or someone you know is considering a cat (no not one injured in an accident) and allergies are a concern,  the dream of finding a feline companion who won’t trigger sneezes and itchy eyes is a strong one. While no cat is completely hypoallergenic, certain breeds produce fewer allergens, have less layers or shorter coats making them easier for allergy-sensitive people to live with.

What Causes Cat Allergies?

The main culprit is a protein called Fel d 1, which is found in cats’ saliva, skin, and dander. When cats groom themselves, the protein sticks to their fur and spreads into the environment. People with cat allergies react when they inhale or touch these proteins.

Different breeds can affect allergy sufferers differently, based on their coat type, grooming habits, and even how much Fel d 1 they produce, but let’s be clear that all cats produce this protein.

1. Hairless Cats  

These cats don’t carry allergens in fur, but they still produce Fel d 1 on their skin. With regular baths and cleaning, they can be easier for allergy sufferers if you can afford one:

• Sphynx – The most famous hairless breed, known for being affectionate and playful. Needs frequent bathing to remove oil and dander.
  

• Peterbald – A rare breed from Russia, sometimes fully hairless and sometimes with a fine peach-fuzz coat and are quite stunning creatures.

2. Cats with Fewer Hair Layers

Some breeds have only one or two layers of coat (compared to the typical three-layer coat (guard, awn & down) in most cats. This means less shedding and fewer allergens floating in the air:

• Devon Rex – Has all 3 layers of hair and a genetic mutation causes the hair to be soft, wavy coat or “rexed” that’s very short and fine. Requires occasional cleaning of skin oils.

• Cornish Rex – Even curlier and finer fur than the Devon Rex, with just one layer of down hair.

3. Short-Haired Cats

Shorter coats don’t hold onto as much saliva or dander, and they shed less than long-haired breeds:

• Oriental Shorthair – Sleek, short coat that requires little grooming.

• Bengal – Their coat has a unique pelt-like texture that sheds less than typical cat fur.

• Siamese – Often cited as easier for allergy sufferers than many other breeds.

4. Cats That Naturally Produce Less Fel d 1

Some breeds seem to produce lower levels of this allergenic protein, making them easier to tolerate:

• Balinese – Sometimes called the “hypoallergenic longhair,” despite their silky coat, they are reported to produce less Fel d 1.

• Javanese – Closely related to the Balinese, with a single silky coat that sheds less and, like the Balinese, may produce lower Fel d 1.

• Siberian – Despite their thick triple coat, studies suggest they often have lower Fel d 1 levels than average.

• Russian Blue – Their dense double coat may help trap allergens near the skin, and they are believed to produce less Fel d 1 overall.

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Are Black Cats Hypoallergenic?

A common question is whether black cats are hypoallergenic.  The short answer: no.  Coat color does not affect Fel d 1 production though some believed the stunning Bombay cat, given it was  breed to mimic the panther with its deep black, sleeker, shinier coat.  Allergies depend on the individual cat’s biology, not its fur color. While some people anecdotally feel they react less to darker cats, there’s no scientific evidence to support this.

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Can Cats Be Tested for Fel d 1?

Yes — though it’s not a routine procedure.

• Veterinary Labs: Some veterinary laboratories can measure Fel d 1 levels in a cat’s saliva, fur, or skin swabs. This kind of test can indicate whether a particular cat produces higher or lower levels of the protein.

• Genetic Research: Breeding programs and research institutions have studied genetic markers linked to Fel d 1 production, but commercial DNA tests for this aren’t widely available yet.

• Practical Testing: The simplest way most people “test” is by spending extended time with the cat before adopting. Since individual immune responses vary, a cat that’s low-allergen for one person may still trigger symptoms in another.

  If allergies are still destined to hold you back from ownership and having a cat in the home long term, you may consider fostering a feral cat through any of these organizations:  Montgomery County Community Cat Coalition, Metro Ferals, Feral Cat Rescue of Southern Maryland,  OR enlisting/owning an outdoor feral through Montgomery County Working Cats:  “freelance feline” program directed to folks who wish to keep mice out of their homes, sheds, or barns.   All you have to do is provide it food and outdoor shelter and let it work for you.

  NOTE:  This article will be posted on our website blog should you ever wish to refer back to it.