Are Domestic Shorthair Cats Hypoallergenic? (Allergy Talk)


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Pet allergies can be discouraging, especially if you want a furry friend keeping you company at home. If you have allergies but want a cat in your life, what can you do? Some people recommend keeping domestic shorthair cats; however, are these cats hypoallergenic?

Domestic Shorthair cats are not hypoallergenic. Instead, these cats will shed and possess the Fel d 1 protein which is a cat’s main allergen.  The best cats for people suffering from allergies are the Sphynx, Cornish Rex, or Russian Blue.

Read on to learn more about Domestic Shorthair cats and allergies!

If you wonder what the best products are for your cat, check out this article that will break down all my recommendations for you: Things To Buy For A Cat Right Now!

Are Domestic Shorthair Cats Bad for Allergies?

Yes, Domestic Shorthair cats can be bad for allergies. However, they’re normally better for people with allergies than longhair cats since they shed less. However, keep in mind that domestic shorthair cats still shed and possess the Fel d 1 protein in their saliva, which is the primary allergen.

All mammals produce dander, even if it’s in small amounts. Because of this, no cat breeds are entirely allergen-free.

However, domestic shorthair cats shed less than some other breeds. The fact that they shed less makes them better for allergy sufferers than some other felines. However, if you have allergies, Domestic Shorthair cats will likely still trigger them. 

Additionally, since domestic shorthair cats shed less, they also cause fewer breathing problems.

Some people have breathing issues when they’re around cats. Domestic Shorthair cats are not the best cats for people with allergies. Instead, it would help if you investigated the Sphynx or the Russian Blue.

These issues happen because they’re breathing in the airborne allergens that their pet is producing. Less shedding means fewer airborne particles getting into their lungs.

Domestic Shorthair Cat

Are Shorthair Cats Hypoallergenic?

Most Shorthair cats are not hypoallergenic, so they aren’t 100% allergen-free. However, they are usually better for people with allergies than longhair cats. That’s because they shed less than longhair cats, which can help reduce allergy symptoms. 

Whether you have a short hair or a long hair cat, keep in mind that all cats shed. The more your pet sheds, the more it’ll cause allergies and uncomfortable symptoms.

If you are concerned about allergies and shedding, take a look at these shorthair cats that are good with allergies and not shedding as much:

Shorthair Cats That Don’t Shed MuchDescription
Russian BlueOriginally from Russia, short grey coat
BengalA hybrid cat with a short coat, looks wild
SiameseNative to Thailand (Siam), popular in USA
Oriental ShorthairOriginally from Thailand, related to the Siamese
Domestic Shorthair Cat

What Hypoallergenic Means

Allergies are the worst. If you suffer from allergies, you have most likely heard of hypoallergenic products. But what does hypoallergenic mean exactly?

Hypoallergenic products contain few, if any, substances that are irritating and trigger allergies. Using hypoallergenic products helps lessen allergy symptoms. These are great products to use if you suffer from terrible allergies.

The term hypoallergenic can extend beyond products. We also use this word to describe animals and cosmetics that are less likely to trigger allergy symptoms.

Pets that produce fewer allergens, such as amphibians or reptiles, are hypoallergenic animals. But those aren’t the only animals considered hypoallergenic.

Are There Furry Hypoallergenic Cats?

The Siberian and Balinese cats are furry and nearly hypoallergenic.  Most furry cats are not hypoallergenic, but the Siberian and Balinese are furry and are better for people who suffer from cat allergies. Most cats that are good for allergies have shorter coats or are hairless.

When a person is allergic to an animal, they’re usually allergic to the Fel d 1 protein found on its skin. Being exposed to that protein, either through the pet’s dander or saliva, can cause an allergic reaction.

Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds

Some cats produce less dander, making them better for people who have allergies. The following cat breeds are nearly hypoallergenic:

Nearly Hypoallergenic Cat BreedsDescription
SphynxNearly hairless, Modern Sphynx is from Canada
SiberianLong hair, produces less Fel d 1
BalineseLong hair, resembles Siamese
BengalHybrid cat from mainly Egyptian Mau and Asian Leopard cat
Russian BlueIconic grey cat with short hair
PeterbaldSimilar to Oriental Shorthair but have a hair-losing gene.
Oriental ShorthairFrom Thailand, intelligent and vocal

Of the cat breeds mentioned above, the Siberian and Balinese have longer hair. Though these cats are long-haired breeds, they produce less of the Fel d 1 protein.

What Is the Friendliest Hypoallergenic Cat?

The Siberian cat is the friendliest nearly hypoallergenic cat. This cat breed is very amiable and playful. Oriental Shorthair, Siamese, and Sphynx cats are also great options if you’re looking for a friendly nearly hypoallergenic cat breed. 

Siberian cats are brilliant. Additionally, they’re unique because, unlike other cat breeds, they enjoy playing in the water.

Oriental Shorthairs tend to be cuddly and curious. They are super social, are great with kids, and extremely intelligent.

Siamese cats are very social. Because of this, they’re very fond of humans and love attention. They’re also very intelligent felines, making them great companions.

Sphynx cats are also highly social. They love keeping their human company and getting all your love and attention. Sphynx cats also lack a fur coat which makes them a great hypoallergenic option.

If you’re looking for a friendly and social pet, you can’t go wrong with any of these breeds. It’s just a bonus that these breeds are also great for your allergies!

Cats and Allergies

Cat allergies are common and can express themselves in a variety of ways. Some of the most common symptoms of a cat allergy are:

  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Itchy skin
  • Nasal congestion
  • Hives
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Asthma

If any of your cat allergy symptoms are severe, you should see a doctor right away.

But if you have mild symptoms and want a furry friend in your home, there are some things you can do to decrease your negative responses to cats.

The most important thing you can do for your health is to get a hypoallergenic cat.

What Is the Best Cat Breed for Someone with Allergies?

The best cat breed for someone with allergies is the Siberian cat. Though they have longer fur than other cats, Siberian cats produce less Fel d 1 protein than other breeds. Siberian cats are also great family pets.

A 2017 study showed that the Siberian cat breed is less likely to trigger an allergic reaction than other felines.

Benefits of the Siberian CatDescription
Less AllergicSiberians produce Less Fel d 1 protein
Highly AffectionateThese cats love people and animals
Dog FriendlySiberians get along well with dogs
Good with childrenSiberians have an excellent demeanor that makes they good with kids
High energySiberians love to play

Ways To Reduce Cat Allergies

Having a shorthair cat can help reduce allergy symptoms. But if you’re allergic to cats, you may still have some side effects from your furry friend.

Here are some things you can do to help reduce your symptoms even more:

  • Vacuum a lot. Vacuuming will help your home remain dander-free, thereby reducing your symptoms. Dusting will also help clear your home of allergens that your pet produces.
  • Avoid rugs and carpets. Rugs and carpets trap allergens. Avoiding carpeted areas in your homes will ensure that your space doesn’t trap any pet dander.
  • Bathe your cat. You may think cats and baths don’t go together. But it’s important to bathe your cat to avoid allergen buildup on their skin.
  • Invest in an air purifier. Air purifiers work wonders for people who have allergies. An air purifier will help absorb any airborne allergens before you have a chance to breathe them in.

Final Thoughts

Video: Domestic Shorthair Cat Facts

Cats are wonderful creatures; no wonder they’re loved by many! If you want to have a pet cat but suffer from cat allergies, you aren’t alone. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to relieve allergy symptoms and still enjoy the company of your furry friend.

If you suffer from cat allergies, be sure to get a nearly hypoallergenic cat – the Siberian cat is a good choice. Also, clean your home and bathe your cat regularly, and invest in some allergy medication.

With these helpful tips, you’ll be cuddling your furry friend in no time!

If you enjoyed this article, please check out a few more:

  • Do Domestic Shorthair Cats Shed a Lot:  Click Here.
  • 6 Reasons Domestic Shorthair Cats Need Haircuts:  Click Here.
  • Are Domestic Shorthair Cats Friendly? (Or Aggressive?):  Click Here.

Here are some of my favorite cat products

In addition to checking out some other More Meows articles, I hope you’ll check out some of my favorite cat products as well.  These are affiliate links, so if you end up using them, I’ll get a commission at no extra cost to you.  These are the products I really do find most helpful.

Litter Box:  I started out with normal, traditional litter boxes for my cat.  Then, I tried this automatic litter box on Amazon (affiliate link), which helped reduce the litter upkeep.  Finally, I am now a believer in the Litter-Robot 3 Connect on Amazon (affiliate link).  This robotic litter box is not for everyone based on the price tag, but for me the benefits (very little upkeep, works efficiently, clean, mobile app) far outweighed the cost. 

My Cat’s Litter-Robot 3 Connect (with night light on) – See the link above the photo!

Cat Tree:  I have purchased a couple of this Amazon Basics Cat Tree on Amazon (affiliate link).  My cat spends a lot of time on and around this cat tree, which I position near my sofa.  She uses the scratching posts on this cat tree multiple times a day, which means she is not scratching the sofa instead.

Cat Water Fountain:  I love this cat water fountain on Amazon (affiliate link).  There are three main benefits to having a water fountain like this for your cat.  The first benefit is that it keeps water running so that your cat doesn’t need to drink still water.  The second benefit is that it filters the water.  The third benefit is that it will keep your cat hydrated!

Christopher Carlson

I have an Domestic Shorthair Tabby named Charlotte. She is full of energy when she isn't sleeping most of the day. I share what I learn about cats on this site.

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