The term ‘hypoallergenic’ means unlikely to cause an allergic reaction but a reaction is still possible. Any animal has some potential to trigger allergies and no breed of cats is truly hypoallergenic. Is it, however, correct to say that Siberian cats have a lower allergenic potential than most cats?
Siberian cats are much less likely to cause allergies than the majority of cat breeds. Siberians are among the few felines that have low levels of the most common allergen Fel d1. As a result, many people who have reactive asthma or other forms of allergic reactions to cats are not sensitive to Siberian cats.
Other breeds that produce low levels of Fel d1 include Russian Blue, Bengal, and Sphynx cats.
Why Do Cats Cause Allergies In So Many People?
Cats cause more allergic reactions – from mild to severe – in a higher number of people than dogs, for example. As many as 3 in 10 people experience some sort of reaction to felines.
The most common element that is at fault is a protein called Fel d1. It is present in high amounts in the secretions of cats, namely saliva and oils produced by sebaceous glands. The protein, or the allergen, is then shed by the animal via hair, dander, and saliva. Subsequently, it causes a reaction in sensitive individuals.
Long-haired cats do not cause more allergies than short-haired ones, despite the common belief. In fact, the opposite may be true. Cats with long fur give off less allergen into the environment, even if they produce quite a bit of it.
Interestingly, female cats are less allergenic than male ones, and neutered male cats are less allergenic than those who have not been neutered.
Fel d1 is the main allergen but there are 9 more, and they are all present either in body fluid or fur. If a person happens to be sensitive to any one of those allergens, then they will react to an animal even if the pet produces very little Fel d1.
Siberian Cats And Allergies
The level of Fel d1 and several other allergens in saliva and other secretions of Siberian cats is not nearly as high as in the majority of other feline breeds.
Most Siberians are far less allergenic than other cats:
- A small part of Siberians produce so few allergenic proteins that these cats could safely live even in the homes of people with severe allergies.
- And up to 75% of people who are sensitive to cats in general report no reaction to Siberians.
Of course, it is not possible to know if any particular Siberian kitty will or will not trigger a reaction. The animal should spend some time with the person afflicted by allergies to test whether or not a reaction will occur.
Some people may also be more sensitive to proteins other than Fel d1.
In other words, Siberian cats are less likely to trigger allergies but there is a variety of factors at play. For that reason, it is impossible to guarantee that there will be no reaction or that a reaction will be mild.
If you are considering welcoming a Siberian to your home, it is important to spend some time with the cat or the kitten, or both. The cat or cats should really be all over you, too, for an allergy to be triggered if you are sensitive to the animal. Of course, if you have severe allergies, keep your safety a priority.
Remember that female cats are less allergenic than males. If you are getting a male cat, neutering lowers the amount of allergen the cat produces.
Tips To Reduce Allergens In Your Environment
There are things you can do to minimize the allergens present in your environment. Your allergies could subside significantly, if not eliminated.
- Clean your cat’s fur with a microfiber cloth
- Giving your cat an occasional bath could be helpful, as long as the cat tolerates baths
- A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter minimizes allergens on the floor and carpet
- A HEPA air purifier could also be helpful if one is an option for you
- It is better to have linoleum or hardwood floors rather than carpets
- If you do have carpets, vacuum at least once a week and shampoo the carpet regularly
- If you are sensitive to dust and wool, too, synthetic blankets and covers are usually a safer option
- Avoid upholstered furniture, if possible
- Wash your sheets often, in hot water. The high temperature will help get rid of any dust and pet dander mites
- Use lint rollers for the couch and other cushioned surfaces your pets love to spend time on.
- Keep any object that could accumulate animal dander and fur, such as toys or books, in a container or covered. Wash the items frequently, if appropriate.
Depending on the severity of your allergies, medically guided exposure to the allergen could be an option. Most people become desensitized eventually, at least to an extent. Exposure does need to be discussed with your medical provider, of course.
Other Breeds That Are Safer For Allergy Sufferers
A prospective cat parent may look at several factors when choosing a pet for their home. It is important to keep in mind that Siberian cats are among the few feline breeds that cause milder reactions in fewer people than most cats do.
Among other breeds that are less likely to cause allergies are the following:
- Russian Blue
- Burmese
- Siamese
- Sphynx
- Balinese
- Oriental Shorthair
Explore these breeds’ personalities and other factors that may be important for your particular household. If would like to have a fluffy feline in your home, Siberian cats are a great choice for you.
Related Question
Do Long-Haired Cats Shed More?
Long-haired cats do not shed more fur than short-haired ones but their shedding is usually more seasonal. Their fur is longer and often thicker, so it is just more noticeable, too. Furry cats do not, however, cause more allergies. That depends on the animal’s production of certain allergenic proteins.
