For cat lovers who suffer from allergies, the joy of having a feline companion can often be overshadowed by sneezing, itching, and other allergic reactions. However, there is good news! While pet dander and the protein in cat saliva are the usual culprits behind allergies, there are cat breeds that are believed to be hypoallergenic. These breeds can bring the joy of owning a cat without the annoying allergies. In this article, we will explore five popular cat breeds that are known for their hypoallergenic qualities, allowing allergy sufferers to enjoy the companionship of a feline friend without compromising their well-being. From the elegant Balinese to the playful Devon Rex and the majestic Siberian Forest, let's discover these hypoallergenic breeds that won't have you reaching for the tissues.
Balinese
Similar in looks to the longhaired Siamese, Balinese are known for their beautiful, soft, silky coat. These longhaired cats’ elegant looks are capped off by a luxurious, long, plumed tail. Adding a Balinese to your family will make you a proud cat owner for years to come, since this healthy, robust breed can live up to 20 years! Learn more about the Balinese here.
Cornish Rex
In addition to their bat ears and big oval eyes, Cornish Rexes have a soft, short, wavy coat, the most striking feature of the breed. This considerably hypoallergenic cat breed sheds very little, with curls beginning at their eyebrows and extending all over their body. However, don’t be fooled by the breed’s elegant, dainty appearance. Their athletic bodies help them climb, leap, and sprint to amazing heights, fueling the kitten-like antics that last throughout their lifespan. Learn more about the Cornish Rex here.
Devon Rex
With impish looks and a playful personality, the Devon Rex is known as the pixie of the cat world. Their thin, curly coat doesn’t shed much, making the Devon Rex a low-maintenance breed. Their fur is warm to the touch and feels like soft suede, so the Devon Rex makes an ideal lap cat. Outgoing and friendly, these cats are social butterflies. Devon Rexes are delightful and silly in their antics, serving as a constant source of entertainment. Learn more about the Devon Rex here.
Siberian Forest
Radiating a majestic appearance, the Siberian Forest is a robust cat with a rounded, contoured body and a clown-like personality. The Siberian Forest is slow to mature, taking up to five years to fully develop. In the winter, their thick, water-repellent, multiple-layered coat protects them from the cold, but in the summer, Siberians shed down to a shorter, sparser coat. Learn more about the Siberian Forest here.
Sphynx
Known as the hairless cat, Sphynx have warm, leather-like skin covered by fine down that feels like peach fuzz. Weekly sponge baths rid their loose skin of excess oil and keep their minimal dander at bay, making the breed well-accepted by allergy sufferers. Because Sphynx don’t have a coat to keep them warm, they tend to cozy up on your lap or like to snuggle with you under the covers. Learn more about the Sphynx here.
For cat lovers who suffer from allergies, finding the perfect feline companion can be a challenging task; however, there are cat breeds available that offer hope and allow allergy sufferers to experience the joy of owning a cat without the discomfort.
