Is there such a thing as “no allergy” cats? Is it possible to finally enjoy a feline companion without worrying about taking pills and keeping your itchy, watery eyes under control?
We will review a few facts about some of the breeds deemed to be hypoallergenic to disclose the reality behind such a myth.
Allergic To Cats?
A list of hypoallergenic cats for those people who want a pawsome companion but are worried of living with a constant stuffy nose and watery eyes. Some of the most well known hypoallergenic breeds are Balinese, Javanese, Oriental Short Hair, Devon Rex, Cornish Rex, Sphinx and Siberian Cats. The reason behind this is either the shorter or absence of hair or a special enzyme in the saliva that is produced in less quantity in these breeds.
What triggers allergies to cats
The primary cause of allergies to cats is a glycoprotein called Fel D1, that is produced by the sebaceous glands under their skin and in minor quantity is present in cats saliva.
Cats are very unique in the animal world because they produce this protein which other animals do not; that’s why often people who are allergic to cats have no issues when it comes to dogs (cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies).
So while we are brought to think that certain breeds or hairless cats do not trigger allergies that is, in fact, untruthful as they all produce the same enzyme but ,through research, was found that certain breeds either do not produce Fel D1 or do so at significant lower levels therefore, the claim of hypoallergenic cats.
Balinese Cat
Balinese cats do to come from Bali or anywhere in Indonesia as the name would suggest; instead its beginning starts with the first siamese that was originally imported from Thailand to Uk and USA in the mid 1800s and subsequently bred. They are amongst the few breeds that produce a lower amount of Fel D1 protein therefore claiming to be hypoallergenic.
They are very similar to siamese when it comes to personality, they are extremely fond of their owner, curious andintelligent and they crave activities and play. Find out more about this breed…
Sphynx Cat
Sphynx are well known hairless cats. Their skin can be completely hairless or like chamois leather .
Their selective breeding started in the 1960s. They display a high level of energy, intelligence, curiosity and attachment to their owner. They have webbed feet and their skin is the color their fur would be. They can be observed exhibit behavior very similar to dogs.
Find out more about this breed…
Cornish Rex
Cats fur is composed of three different kind of hair: the outer layer, the middle layer and the down hair.
The main characteristic of this breed is having only the down hair or undercoat. This particular trait makes them sensitive to low temperature and adapt to live indoors.
They have a sleek appearance and are prone to keep a kitten behavior throughout their life, enjoying an active and playful environment.
Find out more about this breed…
Devon Rex
Making his debut in England in the 1950s they are recognizable by the slender bodies, the wavy fur and large ears.
Their whiskers are very short making it seem as they don’t have any at all.
They are highly intelligent and they can be taught to walk on a leash, perform tricks and fetch, similarly to a dog. They will chose one person in the household to whom they’ll devote their attention.
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Javanese Cat
Javanese term was created by merry Mews Cattery in 1950s and its breed is characterized by a long, silky, single coat in a variety of colors.
Similarly to the siamese breed tends to be very vocal and playful. He can become depressed if left alone for long period of time or not entertained.
Most of Javanese cats have blue eyes.
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Siberian
Called also forest cat, their size vary from medium to large and is a natural breed from Siberia.
Siberian cats are caring parents, the male takes part in caring for the litter and they are often observed having one partner for life.
Their bodies are powerful and of strong built and they are agile creatures.
Find out more about this breed…
