hypo-allergenic cats?

[ferky]

Are there any breeds of cats that are hypo-allergenic? I know that ragdolls supposedly don't shed much, but I also heard that they do nothing to help allergies. Are there any out there that do?

[rpcathouse]

No there are none. What causes the allergies is the dander of the cat. If the cat is brushed and combed every few days and bathed the dander is not bad. Keeping the carpet clean and furniture does help alot also. My daughter has built up a tolerance to the dander and now it does not bother her.

Stella

[moosmom]

Actually, it's the cat's SALIVA that causes allergies. They groom themselves 13 hours a day according to feline statistics I read this morning. The saliva dries and then goes into the air.

The only cats I can think of that might be good for people who are allergic is either a Sphynx (of course, I'm prejudiced cuz I have one ) or another distant cousin is the Cornish Rex or Devon Rex. Both the CR and DR have short wavy hair and don't shed much.

Unfortunately, they can be expensive. I got MooShoo as a rescue from a bad breeder. He's blind in his right eye and has partial vision in his left from a herpes virus she neglected to treat, which caused scar tissue on both his corneas. However, that does not stop him from tearing through my house. All 3 breeds have wonderful dispositions, are very loyal, and love attention.

[carole]

I agree with Donna, but like me you can build up a resistance, and the allergy can become less severe, although it will not disappear completely, and when spring is here I have a big problem, and I suppose my kitty's don't help the situation, but hey I would not part with them for the world, its grin and bear it, with lots of Lora-tabs, and nasal sprays.

I would imagine a ragdoll would not be a good choice, but the devon and cornish rex and the sphynx, I would give them a try. I have also heard the La Perm is a good choice too.

[rpcathouse]

I stand corrected that saliva does cause the air borne particles. And so does the dander. I have a Living Air filter that works wonders. I have had it for 4 yrs now and you can not tell that I have 14 Maine Coons and 1 Ocicat and 1 Ragdoll. NO litter box odor either and my daughter can visit and stay for hours. It has help with my friends with bad allergies, also. What ever type of cat you get good grooming habits are needed to help. Plus it is a good bonding time for you and kitty.

Stella
Dixie the Ragdoll

[Hoozdat]

My Bengal kitty dosent shed or have pet dander, has such soft smooth fur. Although like said in previous thread Slavia could be the cause or pet dander - fleas?