Is there a worse thing than being a cat lover and being allergic to cats? I don’t think so!
But, hey! Don’t be disappointed yet, as there’s still a chance for you to become a cat parent without experiencing allergy symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, skin irritations, watery eyes, and similar.
Even though there’s no such thing as a hypoallergenic cat, luckily there are cats that produce fewer allergens making them a safer option for allergy sufferers.
Now let’s check out some of the worst cats for allergies that should be avoided at all cost.
1. Maine Coon
The thing with Maine Coon cats is that some consider them hypoallergenic, while others consider them non-hypoallergenic. Therefore, most people tend to say that Maine Coons are a somewhat hypoallergenic breed.
Well, if you ask me, I would advise you to avoid Maine Coons if you’re an allergy sufferer especially if you have severe allergies.
These cats don’t shed much, however, they produce a standard amount of the allergen Fel d1. So, owning such a cat, if you’re an allergy sufferer, would be quite challenging and would require high maintenance to keep your home clean and allergen-free.
2. Norwegian Forest Cat
Yes, the Norwegian Forest cat breed is fascinating. But, if you’re allergic to cats it may not be that fascinating to you.
Norwegian Forest cats are perfect pets, mostly because of their friendly personality, and plus they look gorgeous. However, their long, thick fur can be high maintenance, especially during the shedding season.
Not only do these cats shed a lot, but they also produce a higher amount of the protein Fel d1 that is responsible for allergic reactions. Additionally, during shedding season, it’s very hard to keep the cat’s hair out of your environment.
They produce a lot of dander and this protein, so even though they look like a fluffy cat from your dreams, if you have allergy issues, make sure that you avoid this breed of cat.
3. Persian Cat
Persian cats are unusual-looking felines which makes them one of the most popular cat breeds in the world. They’re characterized by flat faces and short jaws, as well as long thick coats.
When it comes to grooming care, Persian cats only require regular brushing to keep their coat soft and smooth.
However, the reason why they’re on the list of worst cats for allergies is that they also shed huge amounts of dander along with producing higher amounts of Fel d1.
With that being said, you should give up on the idea of getting a Persian cat, and instead find a feline friend that is safer for allergy sufferers.
4. Oriental Longhair Cat
Oriental cats are felines with unusual looks. They’re characterized by smaller heads, lemon-shaped eyes, and extremely big ears. These cats have lovely personalities, but when it comes to hair type, you have two different options – the longhair or the shorthair Oriental cat.
Even though Oriental Longhair cats don’t have hair as long as Maine Coons or some other breeds, they reduce a lot of dander and leave a lot of saliva on their hair during self-grooming.
That makes this cat one of the worst cats for allergies. However, their twin, the Oriental Shorthair cat, has a very short coat that doesn’t shed a lot.
They don’t produce high amounts of the protein Fel d1 which should make them completely safe for people with mild allergies. The only thing you should do is brush them regularly to reduce the amount of dander, thus decreasing the risk of possible allergic reactions.
5. Himalayan Cat
The Himalayan cat is another beautiful breed, similar to the Persian; however, it’s characterized by different coat color and pattern combinations. Just like Persians, Himalayan cats are one of the sweetest cat breeds.
However, if you have cat allergies, unfortunately, it would be best for you to avoid this breed. The main thing that makes these cats non-hypoallergenic is the fact that they have a double coat that is long and fluffy.
That means that Himalayan cats require proper and regular brushing and grooming care in order to keep their coat in a healthy condition.
Moreover, these cats produce a higher amount of Fel d1 and tend to shed a lot which is more than enough reason why you should avoid this breed as your pet if you have allergies.
6. Exotic Shorthair Cat
Many people may think that this cat breed is perfect for allergy sufferers but don’t let the short coat trick you! The Exotic Shorthair cat is a beautiful feline with, as the name suggests, an exotic appearance.
Their coat is short but thick which is why it requires proper grooming care. The main problem with Exotic Shorthair cats is that they produce higher amounts of Fel d1 and shed more dander.
These dander and saliva particles circulate through the air which isn’t the safest environment for people with cat allergies.
Maintaining an allergy-free environment with these cats may be mission impossible because you cannot easily eliminate tiny dander and saliva particles from the air and you cannot avoid breathing them in.
So, if you’re an allergy sufferer, please be careful and avoid adopting this breed of cat or visiting places where they live.
7. Toyger
This fascinating little exotic-looking cat is called the Toyger. This breed of cat originates from breeding Bengal cats with other breeds. Still, this breed turned out great and it got its name due to its tiger-like appearance.
These miniature tiger cats are very interesting, and you might think that they’re safe for allergy sufferers, especially because they originate from Bengal cats who are thought to be hypoallergenic.
But unfortunately, that isn’t true. If you have cat allergies, it wouldn’t be the best idea to get this cat as a pet for several reasons. The main reason for that is that they tend to shed a lot and produce a higher amount of protein Fel d1 than other cat breeds.
Being near this beautiful feline is unfortunately very risky for your health condition. But, if you would like to have such an exotic cat breed, maybe you should consider adopting a Bengal cat or another similar breed.
8. Birman Cat
The Birman cat is a beautiful fluffy cat that looks like a longhair Siamese cat. But, unlike Siamese cats, these lovely kitties aren’t safe for people with cat allergies, especially because these cats simply adore cuddles.
While they don’t shed a lot, they do produce a higher amount of protein Fel d1. That may not be safe because these cats probably won’t leave you alone and will seek your attention constantly.
With them rubbing against you or cuddling and snuggling in your lap, allergens may trigger your allergies and lead to negative consequences. However, you can check alternative cat breeds that are somewhat safer for people with cat allergies.
9. British Longhair Cat
The British Longhair cat is a lovely feline with chubby cheeks that makes you want to cuddle with it all day. But, in case you’re an allergy sufferer, you should avoid cuddling or being near these cats as they may trigger your allergies.
Grooming care of these cats requires special attention which may not be easy for people with allergies. First of all, their coat sheds a lot and therefore produces dander with it.
As a result of self-grooming, a cat’s hair is often covered with its saliva which contains the protein Fel d1 that triggers allergic reactions. These cats need regular brushing in order to keep their coat in a healthy condition and prevent it from matting and tangling.
Most families choose this cat breed as their family pet because it is great with children and animals. However, if there’s anyone in your family with allergies, I recommend you don’t risk it.
10. Ragamuffin
The main thing that confuses many people is how Ragamuffin cats are not hypoallergenic if they’re pretty much the same as Ragdolls. Well, there are certain differences, and it’s important to differentiate Ragamuffins and Ragdoll cats.
Ragdoll cats are considered hypoallergenic mostly because they don’t have an undercoat and therefore they shed less. On the other hand, Ragamuffin cats are also fluffy, longhaired cats with big beautiful eyes.
Just like Ragdolls, they adore human company, cuddles, snuggles, and being the center of attention. But, if you have allergies, you should avoid Ragamuffin cats as they may trigger allergies.
In fact, people with severe allergies should strictly avoid them in order to prevent negative consequences. On the other hand, if you have mild allergies, you won’t necessarily have allergic reactions to these cats, but still, it’s better to avoid such risks.
People who have these lovely cats may try reducing allergens through regular grooming, but that is more difficult and complicated than it sounds.
11. Munchkin
Although they have short coats, Munchkins aren’t hypoallergenic, which may confuse many cat lovers. Munchkin cats are extremely popular for their unusual look; their short legs are a result of a genetic mutation.
Still, these cats are very energetic, intelligent, and friendly which is why Munchkins are getting more popular. But, if you’re an allergy sufferer looking for a Munchkin cat to be your pet, I recommend you forget about it.
They produce a higher amount of protein Fel d1 which is usually found in the cat’s urine, saliva, hair, and similar. Still, some people believe that they’re not dangerous for people with mild allergies, only for people with extreme sensitivities.
However, I personally think that, if you desperately want a cat friend, you should choose one of the cat breeds that are considered hypoallergenic or the safest for people with allergies.