Yahoo Lifestyle 15 Best Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds for Families With Allergies
Next to dogs, cats are a popular pet choice among Americans. Grey cats, orange cats, hairless cats, and other cats are typically quiet, independent, easily trainable, and low-maintenance household pets. Many breeds do well in apartments and other small spaces and generally have long life spans. But there's one problem that plagues some potential cat owners: allergies. If you, your partner, your kid, or your roommate are allergic to cats, their presence can elicit not-so-fun symptoms like stuffy noses, itchy eyes, constant sneezing, rashes, heavy breathing, and much more. Luckily, these hypoallergenic cat breeds might just be the answer for people with mild allergies wanting to adopt a feline friend.
To be clear, there is no such thing as a 100% allergy-free cat. According to the animal welfare charity organization Blue Cross, cat allergy sufferers react to the protein found in their saliva, skin, and urine, making it impossible to have a totally hypoallergenic cat. That said, these specific cat breeds mentioned below produce fewer allergens, making them the perfect choice for those with cat allergies. Along with choosing a breed with less dander and consulting with your doctor on allergy medication, Blue Cross recommends also grooming your pet on a daily basis, vacuuming floors, changing out sheets, and purchasing a quality air purifier to help alleviate mild allergy symptoms.
After deciding on the perfect cat for you and your family, make sure to check out our top picks for the best cat harnesses, outdoor cat houses, cat trees, and cat water fountains, many of which have been selected and approved by veterinarians.
Javanese
Javanese cats are a relatively new breed that first appeared on the scene in the 1970s. They are playful but intelligent and love to communicate. That means you should expect your new feline friend to purr and meow as if he wants to strike up a conversation. Javanese cats are also fairly athletic and like to run, jump, and play games. Also a plus — they get along well with kids and other pets. They do not have an undercoat, which means they shed less than the average cat.
Height: 10 to 14 inches
Weight: 6 to 10 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
Ocicat
The Ocicat might look like he belongs in the jungle, but he is a 100% domesticated cat. The Ocicat is often referred to as the dog of the cat world, as it loves to play fetch, learn new tricks, and can be walked on a leash. They have short coats that are easy to care for and an outgoing personality that makes them the perfect family cat. They do not produce as much dander as other cats, making them a great choice for those with allergies.
Height: 9 to 11 inches
Weight: 6 to 15 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 18 years
RELATED: Best Cat Harnesses to Keep Your Feline Safe
Oriental Shorthair Cat
These stylish cats appear in a variety of colors and patterns, including solid, shaded, smoke, bicolor, pointed, and tabby. Oriental shorthair cats have an outgoing demeanor, meaning they are highly social and do well in big families. Their short, fine coats mean they shed less than other breeds.
Height: 9 to 11 inches
Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Selkirk Cat
Selkirk cats have a fluffy, wooly appearance, but don't let all that fur fool you. They produce less dander, making them the perfect "hypoallergenic" cat. Selkirk cats are calm but fiercely independent, so don't expect them to want to curl up on your lap all day long.
Height: 9 to 11 inches
Weight: 7 to 12 pounds
Lifespan: 14 to 15 years
Burmese
Burmese cats are highly intelligent cats who love to play and learn new tricks. Owners are immediately drawn to their round, expressive eyes. Unlike Selkirks, these cats love to cuddle, making them the ultimate companion cat. They do not shed as much as other breeds, making them less of a culprit for allergies.
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
Balinese
Also known as the long-haired Siamese, Balinese cats are graceful and intelligent cats who make for great housemates. Fun fact: All Balinese kittens are born white and develop their colors over time. Of all long-haired cats, Balinese shed the least.
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Weight: 4 to 10 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Devon Rex
If you're looking for a cat on the smaller side, the Devon Rex is a great choice. Weighing just 9 pounds, these pint-sized cats have bat-like ears and wide-set eyes that only add to their charm. And the best part is, they do not shed. Their fine, wavy hair is soft and manageable.
Height: 12 to 14 inches
Weight: 6 to 9 pounds
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
Cornish Rex
Like the Devon Rex, the Cornish Rex has the same wavy fine coat. But it's their slim, aerodynamic frames that gave them the nickname "greyhounds of the cat world." They are extremely affectionate and love to cuddle.
Height: 12 to 14 inches
Weight: 6 to 9 pounds
Lifespan: 9 to 13+ years
Snowshoe
The hallmark feature of these graceful cats is the white feet, which are characteristic of the name Snowshoe. Known as one of the friendliest breeds, Snowshoes love people and don't mind being in the middle of large gatherings. They are also very curious. Expect them to follow you around the house and take an interest in your daily activities.
Height: 9 to 11 inches
Weight: 6 to 12 pounds
Lifespan: 14 to 19 years
RELATED: Best Grey Cat Breeds
Siamese
These regal cats, nicknamed after the King of Siam, have striking color patterns. Siamese are known for their distinctive low meow. And get ready to hear it often. These cats like to talk. Like the Ocicat, they don't mind the occasional walk on a leash.
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Weight: 8 to 15 pounds
Lifespan: 15 to 20 years
Bengal
These sleek, muscular cats are known for their leopard-like appearance, a trait left over from their wild ancestor the Asian Leopard Cat. It's important to note that they are very active cats that enjoy social and physical stimuli through play and game time. And they also love water. Don't be surprised if they want to splash around in the sink or try to jump into the shower. They don't shed much, making them an appropriate breed for those with allergies.
Height: 13 to 16 inches
Weight: 8 to 15 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
Sphynx
No hair, no problem, and no allergies. But it does make them more susceptible to cold or sunburn, so be sure to take care of their delicate skin. These social cats have outgoing personalities, which make them excellent companions.
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Weight: 8 to 16 pounds
Lifespan: 13 to 14 years
Siberian
These medium-sized, long-haired cats are considered "hypoallergenic" because they produce less of the allergy-inducing hormone that causes those with allergies to produce histamines. Overall, they are energetic, playful, and intelligent, making them the perfect family cat. Just be prepared for their size: Large Siberian cats can weigh as much as 26 pounds!
Height: 9 to 11 inches
Weight: 17 to 26 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Tonkinese
Derived from the Burmese and the Siamese, the Tonkinese cat offers great companionship, although they do not like being left alone for long periods of time. Tonkinese are excellent climbers, so don't be surprised to see them in high, hard-to-reach places.
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Weight: 6 to 12 pounds
Lifespan: 14 to 16 years
RELATED: The Best Cat Trees
Russian Blue
These strikingly beautiful cats have silver coats with blue undertones. Russian Blues are naturally curious, which can get them into trouble at times. So be sure to engage them with games and playtime. They can be very affectionate with family members but shy with strangers. But once they warm up, you're in for a lifetime of cuddles.
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Weight: 10 to 14 pounds
Lifespan: 10 to 16 years
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