A Guide to Hypoallergenic Pets

 There are dogs and cats out there, however, that are labeled as hypoallergenic and are said to be better pets for those who may be allergic to them. Here’s what to know about hypoallergenic pets. 

There Is No Such Thing as a 100% Allergen-Free Pet

While some dog and cat breeds may be deemed hypoallergenic, it’s important to note that research has not found any dog or cat breeds to be truly hypoallergenic in the sense that they are fully allergen free. So what exactly is a hypoallergenic dog or cat? Over the years it’s come to mean a pet that sheds less. This trait can be beneficial to people who are allergic to dog or cat fur. 

It’s important to note, however, that shedding is not the sole factor in pet allergies. The major allergens in dogs, Can f1 and in cats, Fel d 1, are present in both dander and saliva. So even non-shedding breeds can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. But choosing a hypoallergenic pet can help reduce the amount of pet fur you have around your home, which can potentially lower airborne allergens. And this comes with the added bonus of cutting down how often you have to vacuum up clumps of pet fur or lint roll them off your clothing. 

Hypoallergenic dogs

While some dog breeds are considered hypoallergenic, research has not found any breed to be completely free of allergens. Some dog breeds that are often linked to being more hypoallergenic include: 

• Poodles
• Yorkshire Terriers
• Schnauzers
• Bichon Frises
• American Hairless Terrier
• Portuguese Water Dogs
• Maltese
• Afghan Hound
• Barbet
• Barbado da Terceira
• Chinese Crested
• Bolognese
• Irish Water Spaniel
• Lagotto Romagnolo 
• Lowchen
• Peruvian Inca Orchid
• SOften Coated Wheaten Terrier
• Xoloitzcuintli

Hypoallergenic cats

When it comes to cats, there are popular breeds that shed less than other cats and are therefore often considered hypoallergenic and potentially better choices for allergy sufferers. These include: 

• Siberian
• Siamese
• Bengal
• Russian Blue
• Sphynx
• Devon Rex
• Cornish Rex
• Balinese
• Oriental Shorthair
• Burmese
• Tonkinese

These cats are lower shedding than most but note that even the hairless varieties produce dander and saliva. 

Tips for reducing allergies to pets

While you can’t truly bring home a completely allergy-free pet, you can take some steps to make pet parenthood come with less sniffles on your end. Here are some steps to take:

1. Consult your allergist

If you notice you exhibit signs of having a pet allergy, get tested by an allergist. You may think you’re allergic to all pets but it may just be cats – or it may just be dogs and so on. Signs to look out for after spending time around animals include:

• Sneezing
• Cough
• Nasal congestion
• A runny or itchy nose
• Facial pressure or pain
• Postnasal drip
• Red, watery or itchy eyes

2. Ask your doctor if a hypoallergenic pet is right for you

Talk to your allergist and get their opinion on whether you’re more sensitive to pet saliva versus fur and so on. See if they think a hypoallergenic pet would ease your symptoms and be a good fit for you.

3. Talk to your veterinarian

Certain pet food companies make products that can help reduce allergens in pets. There is a cat food by Purina, for instance, that is made to help reduce allergens in the hair of cats. Brushing your pet more often and giving them baths with certain shampoos may also help. 

4. Do your research before purchasing a hypoallergenic pet

Make sure the pet you are interested in is truly hypoallergenic and sheds less and that the label is not just a fancy marketing tactic by a certain breeder who is trying to sell puppies or kittens. If you’re adopting a pet, be mindful that you may think you’re getting a certain breed that is hypoallergenic but if the dog or cat is mixed with another breed, they may not have inherited the low-shedding trait that you’re looking for.

5. Keep your home clean

Vacuum and dusting frequently can help dander from building up in your environment, which may result in less sniffles on your end. Some HEPA air filters also market themselves as having the ability to help cut down on pet allergens by pulling them out of the air. For more information, ask your allergist.