All felines produce allergens in their fur, saliva, and urine. However, so-called “hypoallergenic cats” produce lower levels of the proteins that trigger allergies.
While there is no 100 percent hypoallergenic cat, certain breeds produce such a low level of allergy-triggering proteins, that they are unlikely to produce the allergic reactions of itching, watering eyes, and sneezing in people with cat allergies.
Allergic feline fans can now enjoy cats too! Here’s our roundup of the 11 best hypoallergenic cats.
1. Siberian
Siberians are intelligent and can be trained to do simple tricks. They develop slowly, taking up to 5 years to reach full size.
Siberian cats are active, playful, and love water — but are also affectionate lap companions. They make excellent house pets and get along well with children and other pets.
2. Siamese
Siamese cats are known for their intelligence and social nature which includes “talking” through various vocalizations. They can be a bit needy.
Siamese cats thrive on human interaction and form strong bonds with their owners, making them ideal for people who can give them the attention they crave, but not a good fit for people who are gone a lot.
3. Bengal
Bengal cats aren’t like their Tiger relatives. These relatively small felines are a hybrid of an Asian leopard cat and a domestic house cat.
Bengals are intelligent, curious, and very active, requiring more exercise than other cat breeds.
4. Russian Blue
The cute and cuddly Russian Blue is named for its striking bluish-gray coat, but those large green eyes may steal your heart.
Despite the dense fur of the Russian Blue, they’re hypoallergenic. They love their owners, but they can be shy with others.
5. Balinese
Closely related to the Siamese, Balinese are very affectionate and perfect for families and children.
These highly intelligent felines can even be trained to do tricks.
6. Burmese
These intelligent cats are affectionate but also need a lot of playtime and exercise to burn off their high energy.
They are otherwise low maintenance due to their shorthair, which requires little grooming.
7. Devon Rex
These adorable cats with big, piercing blue eyes, love to cuddle with people, socialize, and even interact with other household pets.
The Devon Rex breed is its unique thin and wavy coat, courtesy of a genetic mutation, which also makes them hypoallergenic.
8. Sphynx
Sphinx cats can be completely bald or have a thin layer of peach fuzz. But they do produce fewer allergens than many furry breeds.
But don’t think their lack of hair means they don’t need to be groomed – their skin needs regular maintenance to remain free of oil and healthy.
9. Oriental Shorthair
As their name implies, Oriental Shorthair cats have sleep coats that require only minimal grooming.
These curious and active cats are fun companions that enjoy being around people.
10. Cornish Rex
These affectionate cats love attention and cuddling and are great with kids. Their curly coats require regular grooming and are not low maintenance, but well worth the time and effort.
Cornish Rex cats require a lot of playtime to get enough exercise to burn off their high energy.
11. Javanese
These playful kitties are very intelligent and love being around people. They are vocal and let you know they want attention.
They have a long coat, which needs consistent grooming to prevent their fervor from matting.
