There is nothing worse than allergies, and being allergic to animals when your an animal lover can be quite upsetting. Perhaps you’re here on behalf of a family member searching for a new type of pet breed so that you can welcome them into your home. Or maybe you have allergies and are so desperate to have a cat. I can understand that it is very frustrating. So, let’s find out if Russian Blue cats are hypoallergenic.
Russian blue cats are not considered full hypoallergenic. However, the good news is that they produce much less Fel d 1 protein from their skin than other cats. The less Fel d1 protein can cause fewer irritations for people that suffer from allergies.
We know that a Russian Blue cat is not full hypoallergic; however, the good news is there is a strong possibility that you or your family member will be less allergic to these cats due to having less Fel d 1. Unless you plan to get a Sphynx cat, these cats are entirely hairless; you will struggle. There are a few other breeds near hypoallergic, and I will go through these shortly. But first, let us learn about the Fel d 1 protein in cats.
Fel d 1
Fel d 1 protein is produced from the saliva and sebaceous gland in cats and kittens. Humans are sometimes allergic to this protein, and it shows in us by sneezing and an itchy, runny or blocked nose. A person that is allergic to cats can also start wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and a cough. Plus itchy, red rash (hives) and all these symptoms are from this one protein. We are all different, and symptoms will vary from mild to extreme cases.
We know that the Fel d 1 protein is the primary cause of allergies. However, we know that the Russian blue cats have far much less of this protein. So, let’s learn a little about the Russian blue cat in case you take the leap and welcome a Russian blue cat into your home.
About Russian Blue
Originally from the port of Arkhangelsk, located in Russia, these cats came to Great Britain and Europe in 1860, thanks to the sailers. The Russian Blue cats are also known as Archangel Blues.
They can be a somewhat curious breed and are considered smart cats. So smart that they have been known to learn tricks and open doors. They are quite laid back and can give off a reserved mood around strangers. They love their toys and need mental stimulation, or they can become mischievous if bored.
The Russian Blue cats have a fantastic memory and can remember familiar faces with ease.
Buying A Cat When Someone In Your Household Has Allergies (Advice)
When and if you decide to get a cat, however, you or your family member has allergies, tell the seller, this won’t be the first time they have heard of this, and they will more than likely accommodate you. See your options in case of any unbearable allergic responses. Please note that when your around new animals, allergies are high and will tend to settle after a few days. Explain to the cat seller, and hopefully, they will be understanding. It would be better to give the cat back to the breeder instead of re-homing them yourself. Be upfront and honest about the possibilities with your family also, especially if you have younger children. Kids will get attached pretty quickly, but if you pre-warn them first, there will be fewer tears if it ever has to come to it. This is the last thing you want to do, and you will realise in a few days that it’s not working out and the increased allergy responses have started.
- Speak to the seller be honest about the possibilities of bringing the cat back
- Stock up on allergies tablets
- Keep the whole family in the loop of the possibilities of having to re-home the cat.
- Females produce less Fel d 1 protein.
- Neutered males produce less Fel d 1 protein.
Full List Of Cat Breeds With Low Level Of Fel d 1 Protein
- Balinese
- Sphynx
- Russian Blue
- Cornish Rex
- Devon Rex
- Siamese
- Javanese
- Oriental
- shorthair
- Burmese
- LaPerm
Conclusion
If you love cats and have allergies, it is an unfortunate thing; however, the good news is you could be well on the road to having your very own cat with the help of these breeds. Even though they are considered hypoallergic, this does not mean they are suitable to be with someone who is allergic to cats, they will still cause allergy problems, but this might not even go noticed and will be a much lesser reaction. I hope this is the case as every person and every cat will play a part in the response.
