Top 14 Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds

If you’re a cat lover but have allergies, your dreams of owning a feline friend may seem impossible. However, there’s a bunch of hypoallergenic cat breeds that have low levels of Fel d 1, the primary allergen in cats, making them less likely to cause sneezing fits or watery eyes. These cats are great for people living with allergies who still crave the companionship of a feline friend. Here are some remarkable hypoallergenic cat breeds.

Cornish Rex

Height: 9-10 inches

Weight: 6-10 pounds

Coat: Silky, curly undercoat

Color: Pure white, smoky black, bi-color, and more

Life Span: 12-16 years

Known for its curly coat that looks like a lamb’s fleece, the Cornish Rex is an ideal breed for those allergic to cats. They shed less than other long-haired cat breeds because of their unique coat. The Cornish Rex’s distinctive luminosity and playful personality make it a great fit for any family. 

Siberian

Height: 9-11 inches

Weight: 8-20 pounds

Coat: Thick, double coat that’s dense and water-resistant

Color: Smoky grey, rich brown, clean white, and an array of multi-colors

Life Span: 10-18 years

The Siberian cat is a muscular buddy and hearty companion. They are far from being dainty as they can endure harsh environments. This is because their thick, soft coat is as cozy and warm as the best fake fur blankets. Siberians are playful and affectionate. They’re perfect for those looking for a loyal friend who enjoys active playtime. Although their coat doesn’t tangle, they still need regular brushing to maintain them.

Siamese

Height: 8-10 inches

Weight: 8-10 pounds

Coat: Short and silky

Color: Four varieties- seal point, chocolate point, blue point, and lilac point

Life Span: 10-15 years

Most people know the Siamese cat for its distinctive, sleek coat and vibrantly colored eyes. They’re renowned as one of the oldest and most elegant breeds. These cats are highly social and intelligent. They even form strong bonds with their human companions. They possess shorter coats, which means they don’t shed as frequently, which means less fur on your couch! 

Burmese

Height: 9-12 inches

Weight: 8-12 lbs

Coat: Short, Satiny

Color: Varies (brown, blue, cream, lilac, and more)

Life Span: 10-16 years

The Burmese cat breed originates from Thailand. They have a muscular, medium-sized body with expressive, golden eyes. These cats are both elegant and tough. Burmese cats possess an affectionate and playful personality that makes them ideal companions for families with children or other pets. Plus, they’re highly sociable. However, they don’t appreciate being left alone for long periods. Give them regular grooming and mental stimulation to keep them in tip-top shape.

Bengal

Height: 8-10 inches

Weight: 8-15 pounds

Coat: Short, thick, and uniquely spotted or marbled

Color: Brown, snow, charcoal, silver, and leopard spots

Life Span: 12-16 years 

Despite the Bengal’s wild-looking appearance with their leopard-like spots, these cats are all domesticated love. They are an active and playful breed that adores games and puzzles. What’s more, they even like water! They’re intelligent and mischievous, so expect no dull moments with this cat.

Sphynx

Height: 8-10 inches

Weight: 6-12 pounds

Coat: Hairless

Color: White, black, red, black, or patterned, bicolor, and more

Life Span: 9-15 years

The Sphynx cat is known for its distinctive hairless appearance. Their outgoing, playful personality complements their wrinkled skin and oversized ears. Typically, they have a muscular and healthy build. They’re perfect for families looking for an interactive feline friend. They require a regular bath to remove skin oils and need protection from excessive sun exposure. 

Devon Rex

Height: 10-12 inches

Weight: 6-9 pounds

Coat: Short and curly

Color: White, black, red, black, or patterned, bicolor, and more

Life Span: 14-17 years

The Devon Rex has a mischievous face and a short coat. This unique breed is known for its playful and friendly nature.  The Devon Rex’s low shedding nature makes it an ideal breed for people with allergies. They also love activities, so they’re perfect for playful kids or lively households. Owners need to brush their coats weekly to prevent skin oil buildup.

Russian Blue

Height: 9-11 inches

Weight: 7-15 pounds

Coat: Short, dense, double-layered

Color: Silver to dark gray-blue

Life Span: 10-20 years 

A cat that can double as a royal companion, the Russian Blue is known for its short dense coat of shimmering silver-blue fur. This makes them a symbol of elegance. Still, their true charm lies in their loyalty and gentle behavior. Maintaining the Russian Blue’s stunning coat is relatively easy since they’re minimal shedders. Regular brushing with a soft bristle brush will keep their fur looking sleek and glossy.

Balinese

Height: 8-10 inches

Weight: 5-10 pounds

Coat: Long, silky and fine

Color: Color points similar to Siamese (seal, blue, chocolate, lilac)

Life Span: 18-22 years 

The Balinese are the long-haired version of a Siamese with softer fur and softer meows that are pleasing to hear. These cats have striking sapphire blue eyes and silky coats and are known for their chatty personalities. 

Oriental Shorthair

Height: 8-10 inches

Weight: 6-12 lbs

Coat: Short and fine

Color: Over 300 variations

Life Span: 10-15 years

Lean, sleek, and elegant, the Oriental Shorthair breed sports a rainbow of over 300 colors. Aside from their multiple variations, they are also social. They demand your attention, so they’re best for those who love interactive pets. These cats boast short, fine coats that require only weekly grooming. They also have high energy and require regular stimulation and exercise. 

Selkirk Rex

Height: 9-11 inches

Weight: 6-16 pounds

Coat: Thick and curly

Color: Various, including solid, colorpoint, and particolor

Life span: 12-15 years

This adorable breed is known for its plush waves of curls. Bust rest assured, their shedding is minimal. The Selkirk Rex is a highly sociable breed, known for their playful and patient nature. With their affectionate temperament, they’re a great match for families. Caring for them involves regular grooming to keep their curly coat tangle-free and healthy. 

Ocicat

Height: 9-11 inches

Weight: 7-15 pounds

Coat: short and satin

Color: Varies, with spots

Life Span: 12-18 years

The Ocicat is a fascinating breed, resembling a wild cat but with no wild DNA in its gene pool. This breed is known for its fantastic spots and robust athletic build. The Ocicat is friendly and sociable. They’re perfect for families who enjoy active pets. They require regular exercise and a healthy diet to maintain their muscular body. 

Colorpoint Shorthair

Height: 8-10 inches

Weight: 5-10 pounds

Coat: Short, fine and glossy

Color: Multiple color points

Life Span: 12-15 years

The Colorpoint Shorthair is the Siamese’s cousin. It’s a playful, affectionate breed known for its distinct color patterns. Always up for a game or puzzle, this breed is perfect for those wanting a playful companion. They need regular grooming due to their short yet dense coat.

Donskoy

Height: 8-12 inches

Weight: 6-12 pounds

Coat: Hairless

Color: All colors and patterns

Life Span: 12-15 years

The Donskoy, or Don Sphinx, is one of the hairless breeds. They have wrinkled skin and oversized ears. Donskoys are intelligent and friendly. They are well-suited for those looking for a low-allergen cat. To keep their skin healthy, owners must give them regular baths.

14 Adorable Signs That Your Cats Think of You as Their Parent

14 Adorable Signs That Your Cats Think of You as Their Parent