Cat Hair Allergy

Are there cat breeds that are suitable for allergy sufferers? Here you will find all information about it.

Atchoo! If you feel weak and sneeze constantly, it might not be a cold. Sometimes, allergies develop over time. It’s especially tragic if you become allergic to your own cat.

Give it away or live with the allergy? It’s a hard question. It’s much easier for people who haven’t got a cat yet. You can find out if you’re allergic before you have to say a tearful goodbye.

animalfunfacts.net will show you how you might be able to keep your beloved furball despite a mild allergy.

Photo: Goncharenya Tanya/stock.adobe.com

Hypoallergenic Cats

Cats can cause stronger allergic reactions than dogs. Sadly. And unfortunately, there are no 100% hypoallergenic cats. But there are breeds that don’t cause strong reactions. It’s not actually the hair that causes the problem. It’s mostly the saliva and tear fluid. Both get caught in the cat’s hair during cleaning. It’s important to avoid contact with the fur as much as possible. Cats that don’t shed a lot include:

• Balinese
• Devon Rex
• Siberian
• Sphynx

But there’s no guarantee. You can develop an allergy to these cat breeds as well.

What to Do if You Have an Allergy to Cat Hair?

• Vacuum, mop and clean your home

And more often in spring and autumn. At least twice a week, ideally using a vacuum cleaner with a pet hair attachment. If there’s no fur lying around, you’re less likely to have an allergic reaction. The litter tray should also be thoroughly cleaned.

• Wash your hands and clothes often

After petting: wash your hands. Thoroughly. Otherwise, you might accidentally touch your face and your eyes will begin to water straight away. You can also get “fluff balls” to catch the hair off your clothing. You simply put them in the washing machine with your laundry (may not work with delicate fabrics).

• Bedroom and couch are animal-free zones

Your body should be able to rest at night, without having to fight an allergy. So, your cat should be banned from your bedroom. It helps to regularly change your bedding, as cat hair will stick to anything and make its way into your bedroom. Leather or imitation leather couches are ideal because you can simply wipe them with a cloth. Fabric covered sofas are not a good idea.

• Less carpets and furniture

Carpets are an absolute “no go”. Even if you vacuum often, you won’t get rid of every single hair. Laminate and parquet flooring are better, as you can simply wipe the fur away. Furniture and objects that aren’t used often should be either gotten rid of or put into storage. Otherwise, they are just another place for cat hair to gather.

When Nothing Helps

If the allergy gets worse, and it’s more than just a few sneezes, there’s only one thing to do: send the cat to a good home for the good of your own health. Especially if asthma is a problem (can be fatal!), and/or children live in the household, human health must come first.

Once Allergic, Always Allergic?

Dog, cat or rodent - the breed or species isn’t always important. Every animal is different, so you can’t always talk about an allergy to a specific animal. So don’t give up hope!

This article is for information purposes only and does not come with a guarantee. This article does not constitute medical advice, so should not replace a visit to your doctor. Please always contact a doctor for medical advice.