Allergy cat breeds: Which are suitable?

Imagine being able to finally cuddle with a cat without sneezing and watery eyes! For people who are allergic to cats, this dream often seems unattainable. However, there are cat breeds that are considered hypoallergenic and are therefore better suited for allergy sufferers.
In this article, you will learn everything about cat breeds that are allergy-friendly and receive valuable tips on how you can lead a happy life with a furry friend despite allergies.

What is a cat allergy and which breeds are considered hypoallergenic?

A cat allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction of the immune system to certain proteins secreted by cats, particularly the protein Fel d1 . This protein is found in the animals' saliva, sebaceous glands and tears and can cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes and skin rashes in people with a cat allergy.

Some cat breeds are considered hypoallergenic because they produce less Fel d1 or have a different form of it. These breeds may cause less severe reactions in people with cat allergies. Examples of hypoallergenic breeds include the Siamese cat or the Devon Rex. However, it is important to understand that hypoallergenic does not mean that these cats are completely allergen-free, but that the likelihood of allergic reactions may be lower.

Overview of allergy-friendly cat breeds

Cat lovers with allergies often face the challenge of finding a suitable cat breed that won't aggravate their symptoms. Fortunately, there are some breeds that are considered allergy-friendly and produce fewer allergens. These breeds have certain characteristics that make them a better choice for people with a hypersensitivity to cat allergens.

The characteristics that qualify a cat breed as allergy-friendly include:

• A lower production of the allergen Fel d1
• Less hair loss or a coat that releases fewer allergens into the environment
• Easier care that minimizes the spread of allergens

It is important to note, however, that "hypoallergenic" does not mean that a cat will not cause allergic reactions. Each cat is individual , and reactions may vary from person to person. Some cat breeds may be suitable for some allergy sufferers, while others may still cause reactions.

When deciding to get a cat, you should not only consider the breed, but also the individual animal . It can be helpful to spend time with different cats to see how you react to them. A medical consultation and possibly an allergy test can also help you make the right decision.

The Siamese cat: a good companion for allergy sufferers?

Known for its elegant appearance and lively personality, the Siamese cat has a short, fine coat with no undercoat, meaning it sheds less than many other breeds.

Although no cat is truly hypoallergenic, the Siamese cat may be a better choice for allergy sufferers as it releases fewer allergens into the environment . However, it is always advisable to seek medical advice before purchasing a Siamese cat.

Devon Rex: fewer allergens, more fun?

The Devon Rex is a breed that is characterized by its curly coat and large ears. Its coat consists of fewer guard hairs and more undercoat, which can contribute to less overall shedding.

Their characteristics could make them a good choice for allergy sufferers, as they potentially spread fewer allergens . However, it is important to consider individual reactions and, if in doubt, to conduct an allergy test before choosing a Devon Rex.

Persian cat: Not the best choice for allergy sufferers?

The Persian cat, with its long, thick fur, is often not the first choice for allergy sufferers. Its fur can collect and spread more dander and saliva, which can lead to a higher allergen load.

Therefore, the Persian cat is generally not considered allergy-friendly. If you have a cat allergy and are considering a Persian cat, you should take special measures to minimize allergen exposure in your home.

Hypoallergenic: Are there really allergy-free cat breeds?

The term "hypoallergenic" means that something is less likely to trigger allergies. Cat breeds are said to be hypoallergenic if they produce less of the allergen protein Fel d1 or have a different form of it, which can lead to less severe reactions in allergy sufferers. So there are cat breeds that are considered more tolerable for allergy sufferers, but they are not completely allergy-free .

It is important to understand that the term "hypoallergenic" is not a guarantee that a cat will not cause allergic reactions. Rather, it means that the likelihood of reactions may be lower. Here are some points that may apply to hypoallergenic cat breeds:

• They have less or altered Fel d1 in their saliva and on their skin.
• They lose less hair or have fur that binds fewer allergens.
• They often require less maintenance , which can reduce the spread of allergens in the environment.

Ultimately, there is no breed of cat that can be described as completely allergen-free . Allergy sufferers who want to live with cats should therefore not rely solely on the breed, but also consider individual factors such as their own reaction to the animal in question. A visit to an allergist and an allergy test can help you find out which cat is best suited to you.

Tips for an allergy-friendly home with cats

Creating an allergy-friendly home starts with reducing allergens . It is crucial to create cat-free zones . The bedroom in particular should remain a place of refuge where the cat is not allowed. This way you can relax in an area that is free of allergens. You should also make sure that the clothes you wore during the day are not taken into the bedroom to prevent allergens from being carried over.

In addition to cat-free zones, there are other measures to minimize allergens in the home:

• Regular washing of clothes, bedding and textiles
• Avoid unnecessary fabrics and decorative pillows
• Frequent cleaning , ideally with a wet vacuum cleaner with allergy filter (HEPA filter) to effectively remove allergens
• Regular ventilation to let in fresh air and remove allergens

The tips mentioned are just some of the measures you can take to make your home more allergy-friendly. It is important that you clean and mop regularly , at least twice a week , to keep the allergen load as low as possible. By taking these simple but effective steps, you can enable a more comfortable life with your cat and significantly reduce your allergy symptoms.

Adopting cats for allergy sufferers from the animal shelter

If you want to adopt a cat from the animal shelter and are allergic, there are a few things you should consider. First, it is important that you know exactly what your allergy is . An allergy test can show you how strongly you react to cats. This will help you better assess whether and which cat is suitable for you.

In the animal shelter you can often find adult cats that have already been tested for their compatibility with allergy sufferers. These cats:

• Are usually medically checked
• Often have a known background
• Are usually vaccinated and neutered

It's also helpful to schedule several visits to the shelter to see how you react to different cats. Spend time with the cats to see if your allergy shows symptoms. This will help you figure out which cat is best for you without making a hasty decision.

Allergy Tests for Cat Breeds: A Guide for Allergy Sufferers

If you have a cat allergy and want to live with a furry friend, it's important to find a cat that's compatible with your allergy. This is where cat breed allergy tests come in. These tests will help you find out which breeds or individual cats you react less strongly to.

The tests measure your immune system's response to certain cat proteins, such as the common Fel d1. An allergy test can be done either through skin tests or blood tests. Both methods can provide information about which cat breeds might be suitable for you as an allergy sufferer.

However, it should be noted that every person and every cat is different. Therefore, a test can only provide a general guide. It is always advisable to spend time with the animal before deciding on a particular cat to test your personal reaction.

European Shorthair Cat: An Option for Allergy Sufferers?

The European Shorthair cat is known for its robust and easy-care coat. Due to its short coat, it could be an option for allergy sufferers as it potentially spreads fewer allergens.

But here too, every cat is unique . There is no guarantee that a European shorthair cat will not trigger allergies. A personal test and spending time with the cat can help you to better assess this.

Living with a Siamese cat: experiences of allergy sufferers

Many allergy sufferers report positive experiences with Siamese cats. Their fur is short and they have no undercoat, which could reduce the allergy potential.

But be careful: not all allergy sufferers react in the same way. Some people tolerate Siamese cats well, while others still show symptoms. It is therefore important not to rely solely on the breed, but to pay attention to individual tolerance .

Chartreux: The underrated choice for allergy sufferers?

The Chartreux cat, also called the Carthusian, has a thick, woolly coat that requires regular grooming. Despite its thick coat, it could be a good choice for allergy sufferers as it sheds less dander.

As with all cat breeds, there is no such thing as allergy-free cats. However, the Chartreux may spread fewer allergens due to its special coat and calm temperament. Direct contact can show you whether this breed is compatible with you.

Flappie: The intelligent solution for a clean home

A clean apartment and a home free of prey are particularly important for cat owners with allergies. Flappie offers an innovative solution: the intelligent cat flap with selective access control. Thanks to a camera and artificial intelligence, it detects whether your cat is trying to come into the house with prey. If this is the case, the flap stays closed and your home stays clean and free of unwanted surprises.

The Flappie app makes life even easier for cat owners. You receive push notifications when your cat wants to come home and you can have videos and photos sent directly to your smartphone. This way you always have full control and can easily make the following settings:

• Control the cat flap from anywhere
• Set access times for your cat
• View your cat's statistics and behavior patterns

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cat breeds are suitable for allergy sufferers?

Cat breeds suitable for allergy sufferers are those that are considered hypoallergenic because they produce less of the allergen protein Fel d1 or have a different form of it. The blog post cites the Siamese cat and the Devon Rex as examples of hypoallergenic breeds. However, it is emphasized that no cat is completely allergen-free and that reactions can vary from individual to individual.

Can you have a cat if you have allergies?

Yes, you can have a cat despite having allergies. There are cat breeds that produce fewer allergens and may therefore be more suitable for allergy sufferers. It is important to take individual reactions into account, spend time with different cats and possibly carry out an allergy test. In addition, measures can be taken to make the home more allergy-friendly, such as setting up cat-free zones or cleaning regularly.