There is a popular notion that cats with long fur cause more allergies in sensitive individuals but is there any truth to that?
Long-haired cats do not cause more allergies and the length of their fur does not affect the allergenic potential. Felines produce several proteins that could cause a reaction. Several breeds, such as Siberian, Russian Blue, and Sphynx cats, produce very small amounts of a common allergen, Fel d1, which is why many people do not have allergies around them.
Why Are So Many People Allergic To Cats?
Cats cause more allergic reactions, ranging from very mild to severe, in a higher number of people than dogs and many other popular pets. As many as 3 in 10 people experience a reaction to felines.
The most common substance that causes problems for so many people is a protein called Fel d1. It is present in high amounts in the secretions and body fluids of cats. Saliva and oils produced by sebaceous glands contain the highest amounts of Fel d1. The protein is shed into the environment by the animal via hair, dander, and saliva.
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.
Furry Cats And Allergies
Long-haired cats do not cause more allergies than short-haired ones, despite the common belief. The amount of allergens they produce is not related to the length or thickness of the fur but they may trigger milder reactions.
The pet’s dander and skin particles are not as easily shed into the environment, thanks to the long fur. So, fluffy kitties may give off less allergen into the environment, although they can still produce large amounts of it.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict if a particular long or short-haired cat will trigger a reaction in any individual, so it is important to spend some time with the cat to test if the animal will elicit a reaction.
Interestingly, female cats are less allergenic than male ones, and neutered male cats are less allergenic than those who have not been neutered. Several breeds produce less Fel d1, so they are not as allergenic for most people. Of course, if a person is allergic to another protein, then the amount of Fel may not make much difference to them.
Breeds That May Be Safer For People With Allergies
A prospective cat parent may look at several factors when choosing a pet for their home. If you have cat allergies and you love cats, then the allergenic potential of a kitty is one of the chief factors for you.
Among other breeds that are less likely to cause allergies are the following:
- Russian Blue
- Burmese
- Siamese
- Sphynx
- Balinese
- Oriental Shorthair
- Siberian
To reiterate, it is important to predict if a particular cat will trigger a reaction. These breeds may be a good option because of their low Fel d1 production but only if that’s the element you are allergic to.
How To Reduce Allergens In Your Environment
There are things you can do to reduce allergens in your environment.
- Clean your cat’s fur with a microfiber cloth
- Giving your cat an occasional bath could be helpful and long-haired cats benefit from baths once in a while
- A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter minimizes allergens on the floor and carpet
- A HEPA air purifier may be helpful if one is an option for you
- If you are sensitive to dust and wool, too, synthetic blankets and covers are usually a safer option
- Avoid upholstered furniture, if possible
- Use lint rollers for the couch and other cushioned surfaces your pets love to spend time on.
- 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
- Wash your sheets often, in hot water. High temperatures will help get rid of any dust and pet dander mites
- 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.
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.
