Cat for allergy sufferers and asthmatics: breeds and their features

Allergies and keeping a cat in the house are most often two incompatible concepts. Complicating matters is the fact that sometimes allergies can develop over time, even in people who have not previously complained of such reactions. It is a misconception that cat hair is the source of all the troubles. In fact, the culprit is a special protein, which is contained not only in the hair of animals, but also in saliva, urine and skin particles. There is a way out - special hypoallergenic breeds of cats, which produce a minimum of malignant protein and practically do not shed.

Hypoallergenic cat breeds

To begin with, it is worth saying that absolutely hypoallergenic breeds do not exist in nature. In the hair and secretions of any cat contains the very protein Fel d 1, which provokes active tearfulness, breathing problems and other symptoms of allergic reaction.

Fel d 1 protein is found:

• in the fur;
• in urine;
• in skin particles;
• in nasal secretions;
• in saliva.

However, among the variety of cat breeds, there are those with minimal or no hair cover. There are among the so-called hypoallergenic breeds and quite fluffy representatives of the feline world. But it should be noted that the prefix «hypoallergenic» does not guarantee that the breed does not cause an allergic reaction. It is worth being careful, because the release of protein will still be present in such cats, albeit in a minimal amount.

Devon Rex

These are «Curly» cats, which are also popularly called poodles. These cats first appeared in the county of Devon, and the prefix «rex» breed inherited from a breed of rabbits with similar curly hair.

Devons molt, but the loss of hairs in them is not as intense as in other cats. Owners may not even notice how their pet molts. These cats also excrete protein, but due to the fact that molting is inactive, the source of allergy problems for allergy sufferers will be minimal.

Balinese cat

This breed was first bred in America. The coloring is very similar to Siamese cats and for good reason, because, in fact, the Balinese cat is one of the varieties of the Siamese breed.

The coat of these cats is long, silky, but the undercoat is completely absent, so there will be few hairs during molting. Balinese cats are very calm and balanced, their genetics simply does not include aggression, so they will be excellent companions for both adults and children.

Don Sphynx

This breed was first introduced in Rostov-on-Don in 1986. Their lack of hair does not cancel the fact that Fel d 1 protein is present in the saliva, urine and other secretions of the animal. However, its percentage is much lower in comparison with other breeds, because the animal is deprived of hair. But there are some representatives of the breed, which have a small fluff, reminiscent of velour.

Cats of this breed are very affectionate creatures that need careful care. In the room where they most often live, it should always be dry and warm, otherwise the cat will get sick. And one more interesting fact - Don sphinxes secrete dark sweat, so do not be frightened. You can solve the problems by simply bathing or wiping the pet with a damp cloth.

Javanese cat

Another breed bred in America. It is a small cat, usually not more than 5 kg, whose hair is as short as possible on the body, but long and silky on the tail. During molting, it does not leave wisps of hair.

The Javanese breed is very playful. It always needs to be close to the owner, it needs constant attention. These cats are perfectly amenable to training, they can perform simple tricks and even feel great when walking on a harness. So such a fidgety cat is suitable only for responsible adults who have enough time for careful care of the pet.