Nine hypoallergenic cat breeds for people with allergies

Few would argue that pet ownership brings many rewards, including companionship, reduced stress and improved mental health.

But for a long time, if you suffered from allergies, having a pet, and especially a cat, used to be a no-go.

Luckily, there are a number of so-called hypoallergenic cat breeds so people with allergies can also have a pet.

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While all cats produce some allergens in the form of hair, saliva and other bodily fluids, some produce less of the Fel d 1 protein – the common allergen linked to cat allergies in humans.

Here are nine cat breeds considered hypoallergenic:

Siamese

The Siamese cat is perhaps the best known of the hypoallergenic cat breeds.

The legendary ‘temple cat’ of the King of Siam, they were not just valued for their beauty but stood guard over the king’s throne from tall columns and pounced on anyone who came close.

A beautiful, but also highly intelligent cat, they can be trained to walk on a lead, and are known for their vibrant blue eyes.

The Siamese has a short, glossy coat that lies close to the body – so will not shed as much hair.

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Russian blue

The Russian Blue is a large, sweet-tempered cat that is loyal to family members but may not take well to guests.

Known for their bright green eyes and ‘smile’, they have a very dense, soft double coat which doesn’t shed much hair.

They also produce lower levels of a known cat allergen, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

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Sphynx

With its almost hairless body, small triangular face and super long ears, the Sphynx is not everyone’s cup of tea, but it does make a good choice for allergy sufferers thanks to its, well, lack of hair.

A medium-sized cat with wide-set eyes and prominent cheekbones, the Sphynx dates back to Egyptian times, and loves jumping, playing and climbing.

While they appear hairless, they actually have a very fine, short coat of hair that feels like suede. However, their skin produces normal amounts of allergens so those with allergies will need to still take care.

Bengal

Bengal cats are a unique hypoallergenic breed known for a spotted, short coat that gives them a leopard-like appearance.

In fact, they are ancestors of the Asian leopard cat.

As a large, athletic cat, the Bengal needs to have the chance to run and jump, and is considered curious.

Their short coat is easy to care for, and they shed very little hair. They also produce less of the common cat allergen Fel d 1.

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Siberian

Despite their furry and fluffy look, Siberian cats are considered hypoallergenic because of their lack of two of the allergens that affect humans.

A friendly, affectionate cat that is great for ­families, they are also a large, robust cat that is able to leap long distances.

Sporting a triple-layered coat that is water-resistant, they shed twice a year and will need regular grooming with a weekly comb to help them look their best.

Burmese

Burmese cats are amongst the most popular cats in Australia, thanks to their adaptable and easy personality.

Most Burmese are brown or champagne in colour, and they are known for their golden eyes.

They have a short coat requiring minimal grooming and do not shed excessively.

Devon Rex

The Devon Rex is a breed of cat with an unusual curly coat that is actually very fragile. Sometimes, they will develop bald patches from self-grooming and even broken whiskers.

The breed, which originated in England, has a triangular face with high cheekbones and large, flaring ears.

They are an active, playful breed.

Oriental shorthair 

The Oriental shorthair is known for its distinctive appearance, including a very long neck, body, neck, legs and tail.

They are similar to a Siamese cat, with a coat that is short and glossy, and lies close to their body.

They also shed very little and produce less of the allergen that affects humans, making them a great choice for those with allergies.

Balinese

Balinese cats have a medium-length coat that is soft and silky, but it has no undercoat.

They also produce less allergens than some other breeds.

A slender and fine-boned cat, they love to climb and are also vocal, much like the Siamese.

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