People often query ‘Are Sphynx cats hypoallergenic?’ People often assume they are because they have no hair – but this is not always the truth.
The main reason people want hypoallergenic cats is due to allergies. Therefore it is important to have access to all the correct information before making the commitment of buying a hairless cat.
Technically and sadly, there are no such things as a truly hypoallergenic cat, there are just breeds that produce less Fel D1. Certain breeds like Siberian, produce less of this protein than other breeds but sadly Sphynx is not one of these breeds.
Cat allergies are very common, with people being twice as likely to be allergic to a cat than a dog – sad right? We could not imagine a life without cats.
You do not want to bring a new cat into your home and then have to go through the heartbreak of rehoming due to uncontrollable allergies (not to mention the price of a Sphynx cat!)
There is a lot of misinformation on the internet and sadly, some backstreet hairless cat breeders will say anything to get you to purchase one of their kittens. Therefore it is important you have all the facts.
So firstly, let’s look at the science.
What does hypoallergenic mean?
“Hypo” means under or less than, so it’s a product (or animal) that’s less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.
A Hypoallergenic cat does not mean it will not trigger an allergic reaction – It simply means it is less likely to.
What causes allergies to cats?
Most people are led to believe it is a cat’s fur that predominately causes the allergy flare and therefore believe Sphynx cats are the best hypoallergenic cats.
But this is not strictly true, it’s actually a protein called Fel D1 found in cat saliva that causes a cat allergy to flare. Once a cat licks their coat, the allergen-laden saliva dries and dander(dried skin) then becomes airborne, increasing the likelihood of a response.
So, are Sphynx cats hypoallergenic?
Technically and sadly, there are no such things as a truly hypoallergenic cat, there are just breeds that produce less Fel D1.
Certain breeds like Siberian, produce less of this protein than other breeds but sadly Sphynx is not one of these breeds.
This is not also something that can be ‘bred’ therefore do not believe a breeder that uses this as an ‘exclusive’ selling point.
So why do people say hairless cats are hypoallergenic?
It is because Sphynx cats have no fur.
If they have no fur they spend a lot this time grooming cats with thick coats such as Maine Coons. In turn, this results in less of the Fel D1 salvia on their skin and fewer allergens in your home environment.
This is the reason why Sphynx are referred to as allergy-friendly cats, the same as Bengals.
However, it is important to know that cats do not only groom their coats for cleanliness. A behavioural trait of all cat breeds is to over-groom themselves when they feel stressed.
Therefore a stressed cat is more likely to trigger an allergy response and cause more allergens in your home.
Behaviour issues in cats are upsetting for all involved, including the cat, therefore it is important that the route cause is figured out and a solution is found promptly. During this time, we recommend using Feliway to assist with the situation.
Are Sphynx cats good for allergies?
Well, sort of yes. By being hairless they spend less time grooming and therefore are less likely to have the protein on their skin. Also, by not having any fur they do not shed fur into the environment – meaning less chance of having it in your home environment.
However, it is important to be aware that hairless cats can suffer from dry skin. The dry skin will then produce the dander (flakes) into the environment which can cause an allergy response.
Maintaining healthy skin is essential for hairless cats and why many owners bath them every week. Bathing and exfoliating ensure their skin stays healthy and itch-free making a Sphynx cat as hypoallergenic as possible!
Are Sphynx kittens hypoallergenic?
Unsurprisingly, Sphynx kittens grow into sphynx cats – therefore it is exactly the same.
Remember, a cat is a 15-20 year commitment not just for the cute kittenhood.
So you have a cat allergy, but you have your heart set on a hairless cat – what can you do?
How to prevent triggering allergies
Firstly, do not rush into any decisions, this is not a decision to take lightly if it may affect your health.
But, if you really have to have one, then the following things may assist with Sphynx cat allergies –
Spend some time with Sphynx cat before committing to ownership – a good few hours at least, contact friends who may have one or know someone. See if their hairless cat triggers your allergies.
Female cats are said to produce less Fel D1 than males – therefore buy a female Sphynx.
If you do have a male, neutered male cats produce less Fel D1 than intact males. Just one of the many reasons you should neuter your cat.
Feed your cat a good quality diet. Good quality foods reflect on the inside and outside of your cat, a healthy cat will have good skin and fur meaning they produce less dander from dry skin. Some people also recommend adding Omega 3 supplements into their diet to further nourish their coats.
Be committed to bathing your Sphynx cat weekly, this is essential for both the health of you and your cat. Hairless cats are not easy, they take a lot of love and commitment but they give a lot of love in return.
Ensure your home is kept clean by purchasing a vacuum cleaner designed for pet fur. A pet fur hoover will usually contain a HEPA Air filter meaning any dander that does shed is quickly and efficiently removed from your home environment.
It is also recommended your hypoallergenic Sphynx cat is not allowed to sleep on any bedding or pillows where the allergy sufferer sleeps.
One of the best things you can do is invest in a good quality HEPA air filtration unit. These units are useful, if not essential, for every modern home with low ventilation. These well designed yet still discreet small units filtrate the air in the room, removing the dander and fur as well as any other germs, smells and even mould spores that may be present.
In our opinion, a HEPA Air unit should be present in any cat owner’s home.
So next time you ask yourself ‘Are Sphynx Cats hypoallergenic?’ you will know the answer and you will know exactly why.