Hypoallergenic cats

Although there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic cat breed, there are several that produce less Fel D 1, and people with allergies may handle these breeds better.¹

Fel D 1 is a protein found in cat saliva and is the major cat allergen that causes reactions in humans.¹ When a cat licks itself to exfoliate dead skin, dander accumulates on the cat’s fur and is transported into the environment when it sheds.

Many allergy sufferers who want to own a cat believe that a hypoallergenic cat breed is a good choice, as it produces fewer allergens than other cat breeds and may be better tolerated by those with allergies.

Hairless breeds, such as Sphynx cats and Bengal cats, are often assumed to be hypoallergenic due to their lack of fur.¹¹ While they don’t shed fur, they still produce a regular level of Fel D1 in their skin and saliva through grooming themselves.

However, regularly bathing and moisturising can help manage the release of dander and thus your allergy symptoms. As they do not shed, the allergens can usually be contained with regular maintenance.

Although all the listed breeds are considered hypoallergenic, individual reactions to specific breeds vary.² Before adopting a hypoallergenic breed, you should spend time with the cat to see how your allergies react, as getting a cat is an ongoing commitment. Allergic reactions to cat dander can include itchy eyes, sneezing, rashes, hives and difficulty breathing.

Some specialised breeders that breed hypoallergenic cats conduct DNA and saliva testing to see the amount of dander their cat produces.¹² If you really want a new furry family member, you can always look for these breeders.

If you’re purchasing or adopting a cat from a breeder or rescue group and you know you have cat allergies, always be upfront about your allergies. You can consider requesting or organising a trial period with the breeder or rescue group before fully committing to being a pet parent.

You can also consult an allergist for professional advice on managing pet allergies and how to build your immune system to be less allergic to cats.

While no cat is truly allergen-free, certain breeds and proper care can make cat ownership possible for individuals with allergies. Choosing a hypoallergenic breed with reduced Fel D1 production, practicing excellent cleanliness and minimising environmental allergies can all contribute to a more comfortable living situation.¹³

• Regular grooming: Wiping your cat’s fur with pet wipes every day and brushing your cat on a regular basis minimises excess cat hair that may transfer into your environment, reducing allergens.
• Maintain a clean environment: Use a HEPA air purifier to trap allergens and vacuum frequently with a high-efficiency filter vacuum to remove allergens from carpets and furniture.
• Set up a contained space: Limit your cat’s access to beds and carpeted areas, which can readily trap fuzz. Set apart specific areas for your cat to sleep and groom to keep the fur and dander
• Diet and nutrition: A high-quality diet, including omega-3 fatty acids, can improve skin health and reduce allergen Specialised cat food can also help a cat create less dander.
• Allergy treatments for cat owners: Allergy sufferers may benefit from antihistamines, allergy shots or specialised immunology treatments.

If you’re considering adopting a hypoallergenic cat, pet insurance is a worthwhile consideration. While hypoallergenic breeds like the Siberian, Siamese cats or Russian Blue may reduce allergens, they’re not immune to health issues that could end up costing you a lot at the vet.

Pet insurance can help relieve the financial burden, whether it covers accidental injury, illness, or routine veterinary visits. It can often provide peace of mind when your cat falls sick and allows you to focus on taking care of your pet instead of worrying over the financial cost of vet treatments.

Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and the Target Market Determination (TMD) to know what is and isn’t covered in your policy and that the policy suits you.

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