Hypoallergenic cat breeds: a complete list

Hypoallergenic cats: what are they? Many people who suffer from allergies yearn to be friends with a feline. Thankfully, some cat breeds have a reputation for producing fewer allergens, which makes them better suited for people who suffer from allergies.

Certain characteristics of these hypoallergenic breeds frequently cause them to produce less saliva and dander. Those who adore cats but experience allergic reactions may find their surroundings more comfortable as a result.

A comprehensive list of cat breeds that are hypoallergenic will be covered in this article. You will discover useful information to assist you in making an informed choice, regardless of whether you’re looking to adopt or just want to learn more.

Hypoallergenic cat breeds may be the ideal choice if you’re looking for a pet but have allergy concerns. These cats are better for people with allergies because they don’t produce as many allergens. To help you choose the perfect pet for your house, we’ll go over a comprehensive list of hypoallergenic breeds in this post, emphasizing each one’s special qualities and attributes.

Causes of allergies to cats

Many people wrongly believe that animal hair causes allergies, but in reality, the protein Fel D1 (allergen-Laden), which is present in all of a cat’s physiological secretions—saliva, sweat, urine, and sebum—causes allergies. A cat that licks spreads protein particles to its fur, which then gets carried by the animal’s hairs throughout the space.

Reference: Even if the cat moves out of the house, the Fel D1 protein is incredibly stable and can linger in the surroundings for up to six months.

Researchers have found that true allergies to cat fur are very uncommon. Approximately 15% of people worldwide experience animal allergies at the same time. If you calmly wear a wool coat while being in close proximity to a cat and your body breaks out in an itchy rash, the irritating protein is likely the source of your allergic reaction.

Signs of a cat allergy include:

• rhinitis;
• swelling of the nasal mucosa;
• itching and burning in the throat and nose;
• sneezing,
• shortness of breath,
• cough,
• swelling of the nasopharynx;
• dryness, itching and burning of the skin;
• rash and blisters on the skin;
• stomach pain;
• nausea;
• inflammation of the conjunctiva, profuse lacrimation,
• lethargy, irritability, headache.

Allergy symptoms can take many different forms and vary in severity. Both the breed of cat and the features of the human body play a major role.

Are there hypoallergenic cat breeds

It is a common misperception that certain cat breeds are hypoallergenic and never uncomfortable. This is untrue because not everyone understands how allergic reactions work. The sphinx is therefore regarded as a hypoallergenic breed; however, these cats’ physiological secretions, like those of Persians or any other breed, contain the Fel D1 protein. Regretfully, no breed exists that does not naturally cause allergies.

However, some cat breeds still produce undesirable symptoms even though they release fewer allergens. Allergists recommend selecting a pet based on fur type: steer clear of animals with a thick undercoat and choose hairless breeds and cats with thick, curly fur that reminds them of astrakhan. Since they shed their hair less frequently, there is less hair on the rest of the house. Representatives of the Cornish Rex breed have fur of this type.

Hairless cats secrete proteins as well, but if you bathe your pets 1-2 times a week, it will be easier to remove them from their bare skin.

Interesting. Because they release fewer allergens than dark-colored cats, light-colored cats are thought to be less allergenic. Furthermore, compared to female cats, male cats are more allergenic.

List of breeds for allergy sufferers

We recommend getting acquainted with cat breeds that release very little Fel D1 protein. Allergy sufferers find it simpler to settle in with them.

Bengal

In 1963, an Asian wild leopard and a domestic cat were crossed to create the Bengal cat. I am the author, Jean Mill. Larger specimens are less common; most of these animals are medium-sized. Their bodies are muscular, flexible, athletic, and strong. Adults typically weigh 4–8 kg.

Large triangular heads, round-tipped small ears, a broad, massive nose, oval-shaped eyes, a strong, muscular neck, large, fleshy paws, and short, dense fur that feels silky to the touch are characteristics of Bengal cats. Unique feature: shades of gray, red, and white, with a marble or leopard color.

Since hypoallergenic cats are intelligent, witty, and active, their owners must provide them with ongoing care. These are amiable, affectionate animals that are skilled at building bonds with every member of the family. Animals adore the water and swimming. My favorite thing to do is watch the water come out of the faucet.

Interesting. Since bengals adore bright objects, it is best to keep jewelry hidden from curious onlookers.

Achieving hypoallergenicity is possible because short hair virtually never sheds.

Although Bengals are a generally healthy breed, occasionally an animal’s diagnosis may include:

• flat chest syndrome;
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy;
• dysplasia;
• retinal atrophy.

Range of prices: $600-5000.

Burmese

The Siamese breed and Burmese "copper cats" are the ancestors of the Burmese cat, or Burma. For many centuries, the aristocracy valued the animals, which were bred and housed in hallowed temples. The cats of today are descended from a cat named Wong Mau, who immigrated to the US in 1930 after being crossed with American Siamese.

Unusually for purebred cats, there are Burmese standards in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The British Burmese have almond-shaped eyes, pointed ears, and a wedge-shaped head. They are long and lean. The large American Burmese breed has round eyes, wide ears, and a rounded muzzle.

American Burmese people are colored in tones of sable, blue, lilac, and coffee with milk. The British Burmese are colored in shades of chocolate, lilac, brown, and tortoiseshell.

Females weigh 3-5 kg and males 4-6 kg as adults. The average lifespan is 15 to 16 years.

Burmese coats were originally dark brown (sable), but they now come in a range of colors. The cat has short, glossy fur and is graceful, powerful, and muscular. Despite having a medium-sized appearance, its massive skeleton makes it quite heavy.

The most gregarious and people-oriented people are thought to be Burmese. Pets and owners can develop a strong bond with their animals. They are kind, loving, upbeat, and enjoy being in the center of things.

Interesting. Nicolas Cage frequently poses for photos with Burmese cats, which he adores.

Achieving hypoallergenicity is possible because short hair virtually never sheds.

Burma is vulnerable to amyloidosis, gangliosidosis, and hypokalemia.

$250–1500 is the price range.

Siberian

Siberian cats are the oldest breed, dating back approximately a millennium. Written sources contain information as far back as the thirteenth century. The breed’s initial specimens were shown at Madison Square Gardens in the United States in 1870 and 1884.

Siberian: a large, medium-sized, pawed, powerful, and agile animal with a pleasing appearance. Large eyes, either green or golden, crowned ears, and a ruff around the neck characterize "Siberians." There is variation in color. The body is powerful and squat. Males weigh 7-8 kg, and females weigh 5–6 kg. 12 to 15 years old is the life expectancy.

"Siberians" are tender but guarded by nature. They always sense when the owner needs attention, at which point they will come up and start their motor. They won’t get tangled and cause trouble. Since cats enjoy heights, cupboards, doors, and refrigerators will always be some of their favorite spots in the house.

Since animals’ bodies produce the least amount of Fel d1 protein, they are a good option for allergy sufferers.

"Siberians" are robust, healthy creatures. Occasionally, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and pyruvate kinase deficiency are diagnosed in some.

Cost: $1200–$2500.

Siamese

In Thailand, the Siamese cat first made its appearance. She is revered and housed in Buddhist temples. The English consul in Siam received kittens from the King of Siam in 1880, which led to the breed’s introduction to Europe and subsequent global expansion.

Siamese cats are known for their distinctive color and stunning sky-blue eyes. The animal’s paws are graceful, and its body is balanced, athletic, flexible, and elegant. The chin is robust, the profile is straight, the eyes are almond-shaped, and the head is wedge-shaped.

The Siamese breed has short, silky, shiny coats with distinct dark markings on their paws, tail, ears, and muzzle. The fur on the body is light, with shading on the sides and back. The breed is hypoallergenic because of its light color and nearly non-shedding fur.

Males weigh 4–7 kg, while females weigh 3-5 kg. You have 12 to 15 years to live.

Siamese are gregarious, loving, and energetic dogs. They enjoy making physical contact with people and are intelligent and athletic. Cats like to converse with their owners for extended periods of time and have a deep, loud voice. Given that Siamese dislike loneliness, it is advised to have multiple of them in the home if the owners will be gone for an extended period of time.

Diseases of breeds:

• liver amyloidosis;
• vestibular disease;
• aortic stenosis;
• retinal atrophy.

Cost: between $100 and $700.

Ocicat

Ocicat: a diminutive mammal that bears resemblance to the ocelot of South America. The breed happened by accident in 1964 when an Abyssinian and a Siamese were crossed. Writing credit goes to Virginia Daly. The breeder crossed one of the cats with a Siamese cat because she was unhappy with the outcome. Consequently, offspring emerged with an uncommon spotted color.

Ocicats are great for housekeeping because they lack keen hunting instincts. Animals have a graceful, harmonious body type. The ears are large, and the hind legs are longer than the front ones. There are two hues: silver and gold speckled.

Ocicats are gregarious cats that will never turn down the chance to play and sit on your lap, even if you don’t plan on doing so at the moment. You can be sure that your pet will play with your leg if it decides to do so at any moment. His upbeat, playful demeanor and sharp mind will prevent any family member from becoming bored.

Women weigh 3–4 kg, while men weigh 4-6 kg. The average lifespan is 12–14 years.

Ocicats are amiable and loving, enjoy going for walks on a leash, are quick to adjust to new situations, and dislike being alone.

A breed’s short hair, which sheds infrequently, contributes to its hypoallergenic qualities.

Diseases not identified as intrabreed.

Cost: $700–1000.

Oriental

Oriental cats are genetically related to Siamese cats, but they also bear nearly all of the physical characteristics of their royal ancestors. Animals from an experimental breed that was created artificially. Following World War II, Britain started to replenish its population and acquire new hues and patterns. Abyssinians, British shorthairs, and Russian blues were crossed with animals.

Oriental shorthaired and Balinese cats were crossed to create longhaired oriental cats in addition to the shorthaired varieties.

Cats that are hypoallergenic have long, thin tails, elongated bodies, and long limbs. Triangular head equilateral in shape. There are 300 variations in the color scheme. With the exception of white, the iris is always green in color.

These cats are happy and outgoing, eager to amuse their owners at all times, but they are also very sensitive. This was passed down from the Siamese.

Males weigh 4–7 kg, while females weigh 3-5 kg. The average lifespan is 12–14 years. A small amount of Fel D1 protein and non-shedding fur are the reasons for hypoallergenicity.

One cannot categorize Orientals as the healthiest breed. Animals can suffer from:

• gastrointestinal diseases;
• nystagma
• bronchial asthma;
• heart pathologies;
• retinal atrophy;
• squint.

Cost: between $800 and $1500.

Balinese

Balinese: a Siamese cat with longer hair. Despite the name, the breed’s representatives are unrelated to Bali and first appeared in the USA in the first half of the 20th century.

Balinese are intelligent, gregarious, and highly curious animals. The breed’s representatives are medium-sized, with long, thin legs and a balanced, muscular build. The base of the ears is broad. large, fluffy tail and a muzzle with a wedge shape. Blue, almond-shaped eyes. Character is a lot like a Siamese in terms of temperament. They are affectionate, inquisitive, and tenacious.

Males weigh 3.3–4.1 kg, while females weigh 2.3–2.8 kg. A 15-year lifespan is anticipated.

The breed’s hypoallergenic qualities are attributed to its light coat color.

Within-breed illnesses:

• amyloidosis;
• bronchial asthma;
• lymphoma;
• congenital heart defects;
• strabismus;
• gastrointestinal diseases;
• retinal atrophy.

$150–300 is the price range.

Javanese

Javanese named after the, or Javanese cat. Java, but it has nothing to do with the animals. Balinese, Siamese, and colorpoint cats served as the foundation for the artificial breeding of this breed.

Large ears, a wedge-shaped head, an elongated body, slender paws, and deep almond-shaped blue eyes set Javanese apart from other breeds. elegant body type.

The breed is hypoallergenic because its members have thin, silky hair without an undercoat. Pets enjoy walks on a leash, are physically fit and resilient, and enjoy performing tricks. Simultaneously, Javanese cats are incredibly social and can completely take over a home when their owners are not around. They have a friendly and affectionate disposition.

Women weigh 2.5–4 kg, and men weigh 3-5 kg. You have ten to twelve years to live.

Illnesses

• bronchial asthma;
• lymphoma;
• congenital heart defects;
• strabismus;
• gastrointestinal diseases;
• retinal atrophy.

Cost: between $900 and $1500.

Neva Masquerade

Neva Masquerade is a colorful subspecies of Siberian cats. The breed was created through artificial breeding; no crossbreeding was done.

These breathtakingly beautiful cats first surfaced in the USSR in 1988. It looks great with its bright blue eyes. A small amount of Fel D1 protein and a unique type of light fur make this breed hypoallergenic.

Animals have long limbs, a fluffy tail, and a large, muscular build.

The average lifespan is 17 years, although some people reach 20 years of age.

The Neva Masquerade is naturally inclined to hunt, enjoys both mental and physical challenges, is not afraid of the water, and is a proficient swimmer and fisherman. An innate hunter skillfully captures mice and scales trees.

Pets get along well with kids; they are gregarious, loving, and devoted to their families.

Males weigh 6.5–7.5 kg, while females weigh 4-5 kg.

Members of the breed are resistant to genetic diseases and have robust immune systems.

Cost: between $100 and $300.

Napoleon

Napoleon or Minuet is a small cat breed. Joseph B. Smith is credited with creating the concept of breeding short cats. Seeing a picture of a munchkin in the Wall Street Journal on June 12, 1995, gave him the idea to develop a new breed. He used Munchkins and Persian cats for breeding.

Napoleon is a loving, caring, and compassionate being. Even though these animals have short paws, they are still able to move swiftly and climb trees despite their size. They have medium-sized ears and a rounded, wedge-shaped muzzle.

The personality is kind and amiable. Animals prefer the company of people and other animals over being alone. These harmonious, non-allergenic cats are cozy and soulful, adding warmth to the home. They enjoy nothing more than to snuggle, explore cracks and crevices, crawl under the bed, and observe their owner at work.

Male cats weigh 2.5–3.5 kg, while female cats weigh 2-3 kg. You have 12 to 15 years to live.

Because of its light color and nearly non-shedding texture, the fur is hypoallergenic.

Within-breed illnesses:

• polycystic kidney disease;
• excessive lacrimation;
• stenosis of the nasolacrimal ducts.

Cost: $1,200–2,000.

Likoi

The breed’s name, Likoi or Lykoi, means "werewolf" when translated from ancient Greek. The genes of common shorthaired cats underwent a mutation that gave rise to this new breed. Patti Thomas, Britney Gobble, and Johnny Gobble are credited as the breed’s founders.

Patti Thomas received kittens in July 2010 that looked like mutant sphinxes. They performed a DNA test to determine the nature of their origin, and the results showed that the kittens had no connection to sphinxes or the Devon Rex breed. Soon after, Patti gave Dr. John Gobble the strange animals. Dr. Gobble started researching the animals and submitted paperwork to TICA to register the breed. The Lykoi breed was given official CFA recognition in May 2018.

The way cats look is genuinely strange and harsh. The exterior, however, is not representative of these loving, compassionate, and perceptive beings’ inner selves. They are incredibly gregarious, loving, and active.

The body is graceful, the eyes are large and expressive, and the muzzle and paws are partially hairless. The breed is characterized by its wedge-shaped muzzle, large, spaced ears, and short, occasionally hairless tail. Because of a unique structure’s non-shedding fur, hypoallergenicity is achieved.

Male cats weigh 3–4 kg, while female cats weigh 2-3 kg. A 12- to 15-year lifespan is expected.

The breed is not thought to be prone to genetic diseases and is thought to be healthy.

Expense: $2,000– $3,000.

Rexes — and cats with curly fur

Rex cat breeds are regarded as non-allergenic because of their distinctive fur type, which is short, curly, and nearly non-shedding.

Devon Rex

The breed was created in 1960 by crossing a wild, curly cat that was found living close to an abandoned tin mine in Buckfastleigh, Cornwall, the home of the original Cornish Rexes. A female common shorthaired cat and the curly cat were mated. Kittens with the male’s brownish-black fur were the outcome.

The Devon Rex is a large, muscular animal with prominent cheekbones, curly hair, large ears, and a broad chest. Any color of coat feels silky to the touch. With the exception of Siamese eyes, which have an iris that is sky blue, eyes of various shades typically match coat colors.

Devon Rex is a clever individual who enjoys having fun. People refer to him as "a monkey in a cat suit" in jest. Members of the breed can sit and jump like dogs, are simple to train, and walk on a leash.

Devon Rexes are also renowned for their gentleness and affection; they enjoy purring while sitting on shoulders.

Males weigh 3.5–4.5 kg, while females weigh 2.5–3.5 kg. You have ten to fifteen years to live.

Illnesses

• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy;
• dislocation of the patella;
• muscle dysfunction.

$150–400 is the price range.

Cornish Rex

In 1950, the Cornish Rex made an appearance in Cornwall. Because of the breed’s coloring resemblance to the Rex rabbit, it got its name. A domestic cat gave birth to a litter that included a kitten with curly hair. He and his mother later mated to produce a litter of dogs with curly hair.

Playful and lovable, Cornish Rexes are delightful creatures. Despite their elegant build, they are incredibly strong and muscular, athletic, and agile. The breed’s characteristic features include a broad head, curly hair, and curly whiskers.

Animals are incredibly intelligent, possess traits of dogs, and pick up tricks fast.

Different patterns and colors.

Males weigh 3.5–4.5 kg, while females weigh 2-3.5 kg. 11–14 years are expected to live.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and congenital hypotrichosis are common in this breed.

Cost: between $100 and $400.

German Rex

In the 1930s, Prussian or German Rex first appeared in the family of German farmer Erna Schneider in what is now Konigsberg (now Kaliningrad). According to experts, the breed descended from the Russian Blue and Angora cats.

This breed is appropriate for households with young children. The cats are friendly, patient, loving, and gregarious. Animals come in almost every color, have medium-sized ears, a developed chest, slender paws, a muscular body, and a wedge-shaped mora.

Males weigh 4-5 kg, while females weigh 3-4 kg. 15–17 years is the average lifespan.

Renowned for its exceptional health as a breed.

Cost: between $100 and $300.

Hairless cats

Because naked cats lack hair entirely or in part, they are less likely than other cats to trigger allergic reactions.

Peterbald

The relatively new breed known as the Peterbald or Petersburg Sphynx was created in 1994 through the crossbreeding of the Oriental and Don Sphynx. The creature is thought to be hairless and have flawlessly smooth skin. Certain people have short velor fur.

These are amiable, compassionate animals by nature, capable of approaching anyone. Their voice and facial expressions are flawless in conveying emotions.

Males in the breed can weigh up to 4.5-7 kg, while females can weigh between 3.5 and 5.5 kg. large, rounded ears with a muzzle that is wedge-shaped. Medium-length legs; slender body; convex chest. 13–15 years are expected to live.

There were no indications of a genetic pathology tendency.

Cost: between $100 and $200.

Don Sphynx

The breed was accidentally discovered in Rostov-on-Don. In actuality, that is the origin of the name. When Elena Kovaleva, a breeder, saw a tortoiseshell-furred cat on the street, she was drawn to it. The cat went totally bald because, around four months, her fur started to fall out.

Although some members of the breed have velor fur that is no longer than 2 mm, the classic type of the breed is entirely hairless.

These creatures have a kind and amiable disposition. They enjoy cuddling, kissing, and hugging the owner while they sit next to him. "Donchans" are gregarious and highly engaged. They have a reputation as medicinal cats because they tend to lie down on people’s sore spots more than others. The breed is known for its excessive perspiration that covers the entire body. Brown sweat stains everything if it is not wiped off.

Women weigh 2.5–4.5 kg, while men weigh 4-5.5 kg. A 12- to 15-year lifespan is expected.

Within-breed illnesses:

• acne;
• dermatitis;
• lichen;
• corneal ulcer;
• conjunctivitis;
• scleritis.

$50 to $300 is the price range.

Canadian Sphynx

A genetic mutation gave rise to the breed. Prune, a hairless kitten, was born to a cat named Elizabeth. In 1966, this occurred in Canada. Because the gene turned out to be recessive, breeders attempted to cross him with different breeds in an attempt to correct it, but they were unable to do so entirely. Following the birth of another hairless baby in Minnesota, this was successful. He was crossed with one of the Z cattery’s hairless cats. Stardust was the starting point for the breed’s breeding.

Large, sensitive ears, an elongated body and legs, a wedge-shaped muzzle, and more mesmerizing eyes are characteristics of the Canadian Sphynx. "Canadians" have no hair at all, though occasionally they have light fluff all over their bodies. These are calm animals with outstanding memory. There are several options for color: light beige, blue, white, black, or chocolate.

Male cats weigh 4–7 kg, while female cats weigh 3–4 kg. A 12- to 15-year lifespan is expected.

Members of the breed are susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and urticaria.

$1300–1600 in price.

Elf

Breeders Karen Nelson and Kristen Lied created the breed’s sketch and standard together, which is how the breed came to be. They crossed the American Curl and the Canadian Sphynx to get a hairless cat with curled ears. Although they have a distinctive appearance, elves resemble other hairless breeds in many aspects.

Interesting fact. Karen Nelson suffered from a cat allergy, but she forgot all about the uncomfortable symptoms when the elf appeared.

The Canadian Sphynx can be crossed with elves, but the most valuable cross to preserve the breed standard is between two elves.

The creature has enormous eyes, large ears, and a medium-length tail. Its build is thin. The muzzle is long, thin, and wedge-shaped. The skin is folded, hairless or partially hairless.

These are tender animals by nature, amiable and loving toward humans. They enjoy kissing, cuddling, and lying on laps.

Males weigh 3.5–4.5 kg, while females weigh 2.5–3.5 kg. The average lifespan is 12–16 years.

There are no known genetic abnormalities in this breed.

Cost: $2000–$3000.

Ukrainian Levkoy

Elena Biryukova, a felinologist, is credited with the creation of the young Ukrainian Levkoy breed at the start of the twenty-first century. A Scottish Fold cat and a Don Sphynx were used in the breeding. A hairless cat with drooping ears was the end result.

Levkoy Primero, the first kitten, had almond-shaped eyes, unusual ears, velvety skin, and was nearly bald.

Levkoy is characterized by his angular head with a stepped profile, his dense, muscular body, and his sharply defined cheekbones and eyebrows. There are numerous folds on the head, neck, armpits, and groyne areas of the skin, which is hot and elastic. In young people, short, thin hair may occasionally cover the muzzle.

Levkoys are observant, energetic, clever, loyal, and devoted. They can spend hours curled up on your lap or sitting next to you.

A 12- to 14-year lifespan is expected. Males weigh 3-5 kg, while females weigh 2-3.5 kg.

Levkoys from Ukraine are prone to:

• blood diseases;
• abnormal structure of the eyeballs;
• disorders of the neuromuscular system;
• metabolic disorders;
• hypovitaminosis;
• hernia and prolapse of the uterus;
• mastitis;
• oncology;
• Aujeszky"s disease;
• panleukopenia.

$250–$500 in price.

Do such breeds require any special care

A few pointers for maintaining hypoallergenic breeds are as follows:

• bathe 3 times a week;
• change the bedding often or wash it;
• wipe the skin of hairless cats with wet wipes without alcohol;
• clean the oral cavity once every 3 weeks;
• elves and Canadian sphinxes, orientals should have their ears cleaned with a damp cotton swab once a week;
• cats with fur should be combed once a week;
• The Burmese cat needs to be cleaned and wiped with chamois once a week to maintain the shine of the coat.

Breed	Description
Siberian	Known for their friendly nature and thick fur that produces less allergenic protein.
Balinese	Often called the "long-haired Siamese," they have a beautiful coat and produce fewer allergens.
Bengal	Active and playful, Bengals have a fine coat that requires less grooming, reducing allergen spread.
Oriental Shorthair	With their short, fine coat, they are known for being affectionate and low-shedding.
Russian Blue	This breed has a dense coat and produces less Fel d 1, the allergenic protein found in cats.

If you have allergies but still want a feline friend for company, getting a hypoallergenic cat can be a great choice. There’s probably a perfect fit for everyone among the many breeds that are recognized for generating fewer allergens.

Breeds like Siberian, Bengal, and Balinese cats tend to produce less of the proteins that cause reactions, but no cat is 100% free of allergens. Before bringing a breed home, it’s imperative to spend some time getting to know it and see how your body reacts.

Recall that regular grooming and upkeep of a clean environment can reduce allergy symptoms. Your health won’t suffer if you make the correct decision and take proper care of your cat.

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