Even if you are allergic to felines, do you still feel the desire to have a furry friend? Well, it is possible! Don’t believe it? Then come and meet the hypoallergenic cat .
Speaking like this, it almost seems like something out of a science fiction film where animals are transformed to meet people’s needs. However, that’s not the case! In reality, there are cat breeds that don’t cause allergies .
Why do cats cause allergies?
Cat allergies can be caused by eight substances (Fel d1 to d8) present in felines. Many people think that the condition is a reaction to the cat’s fur, but it is not only this that causes discomfort.
If you’ve been around a feline and started sneezing or experiencing other symptoms, it’s worth understanding why. The most famous substance that causes allergies in humans is the Fel d1 protein , which is responsible for more than 90% of cases.
It is present in cat saliva and can cause symptoms ranging from simple sneezing to severe reactions such as itching and flaking of the skin. Allergic attacks vary from person to person and may have genetic causes.
Reactions become more severe in cases of pre-existing respiratory diseases, such as asthma and rhinitis. In addition, allergic cases can be intensified by other factors: lack of space to keep more than one cat, the breed of the animal and neglect of the hygiene of the environment and pets.
The hair is not the villain
The important thing to keep in mind is that it is not the fur that causes problems, but the substances Fel d1 to d8. Therefore, there is no point in having cats that shed little fur if your problem has to do with Fel d1.
Since this protein is in the cat’s saliva and it takes tongue baths, it is spread throughout its body. The best thing to do is to look for cats that naturally produce small amounts of this substance. That’s why there are cat breeds for people with allergies .
Cat breeds that do not cause allergies in humans
The expression “hypoallergenic cat” does not mean that there is a 100% safe breed that does not produce any of the eight substances mentioned above. They will always be present in the cat’s body, but some produce them in smaller quantities.
Therefore, hypoallergenic cats cause milder allergic reactions, or even no allergies at all. Interesting, isn’t it? So, get to know some of these breeds below!
Siberian Cat
It is a hypoallergenic cat of Russian and Ukrainian origin that lived among Russian royalty. It is estimated that the breed originated over a thousand years ago, although it was only officially recognized in 1990.
The feline can reach 9 kg. It is calm and loves to play. Therefore, it can be the ideal pet for a home with children. It is one of the examples of cats that produce the lowest amount of Fel d1.
Balinese Cat
This is a medium-sized cat with a long, tubular body. Although it looks slender, it is muscular, much like the Siamese. Females can reach 4 kg, while males tend to reach 5 kg.
Like other oriental breeds, the Balinese is very attached to people. It is a breed that loves the attention of its owners, and can even be insistent. In general, this intelligent animal likes to be busy all day long.
Devon Rex
This is a slim, hypoallergenic cat with large ears, a small face and bulging eyes. Many people compare it to an elf due to its appearance. With its short fur, this is one of the ideal breeds for avoiding allergies.
Anyone who wants to have this breed needs to take care of their pet’s health. They tend to be very resilient, but they can have some genetic diseases, such as myopia and patellar luxation . In addition, if the owner wants the cat to breed, they need to pay attention to the blood types.
To deal with these problems, all you need to do is go to the vet and do DNA tests and blood typing. This way, the owner can discover all pre-existing conditions and treat them.
Cornish Rex
This is one of the most exotic breeds in the world, with a beautiful, curly coat that is very characteristic. Originally from Cornwall, it is very common in the United States and Europe today.
This cat has a strong personality, but is also very playful. It is attached to its owner and very loving. Therefore, anyone who has this breed at home will never feel alone. In addition, its tendency to make friends with children and other animals is also good.
I already have a cat and I’m allergic to it: what should I do?
If you already have a cat and suffer from allergies, there may be a solution to this problem! There is a food that reduces allergic reactions by inhibiting the Fel d1 protein.
This food contains an egg protein that binds to Fel d1 in saliva, causing it to lose its allergic action. The food does not alter the cat’s physiology, so it is safe for him!