You either love them or you hate them: Sphynx cats are pretty divisive pets. This breed is one of the few that have almost no hair on their bodies, and because of their furless appearance, some might think they’re adorable, and others think they look a little like aliens. Whichever side you’re on, their baldness also means that Sphynxes are one of the first animals that come to mind when talking about hypoallergenic pets – but what’s the truth behind this idea? Keep reading to find out.
Understanding Hypoallergenic Pets
First of all, it’s important to understand the meaning behind the word “hypoallergenic.” While many people misunderstand this term to refer to something that cannot cause an allergic reaction at all, it actually means that something is “below average” or “slightly” allergenic.
This basically means that hypoallergenic animals (or items) are less likely to cause an allergic response. However, we all have varying degrees of sensitivity to allergy-causing ingredients, which means that anyone could still have an allergic reaction to these hypoallergenic things.
A very common misconception is that all hairless animals are hypoallergenic, based on the belief that it’s simply the animal’s hair that’s causing your sneezing, burning eyes, and itchy skin. Unfortunately, it’s not quite as simple as that, and we’ll explain why.
The Allergen Behind Cat Allergies
While cat hair is definitely a contributing factor to your allergic reactions, it’s not purely the fuzz that’s causing your strife with cats.
In reality, all cats biologically produce a protein complex called “Fel d 1,” and this is found in large amounts in various areas of the animal’s body – their skin, saliva, and even their anal glands. This protein can be spread all over – including to you – through shedding but also through grooming, licking, and other forms of contact with the cat.
As you might have guessed, hairless cats like the Sphynx and the Donskoy also produce this protein, which can potentially cause an allergic reaction.
Sphynx Cats and Allergies
The good news is that the lack of fur in hairless cats like the Sphynx does indeed impact the spread of this allergen. The Fel d 1 protein is most often spread when cats shed, which is obviously not a problem for cats with so little hair.
Less shedding means that there are far fewer allergens in the air and getting onto your bed, clothing, and skin. Those who are less sensitive to the allergen are not likely to experience much of an allergic reaction in these cases.
Frequently bathing your Sphynx cat can further help to reduce allergens by washing away the secretion of the Fel d 1 protein from their bodies. This means that, for many people, a cat cuddle will be possible without a serious allergic reaction!
Managing Allergies with a Sphynx Cat
Of course, it’s important to remain aware that you’re not completely “safe” from having an allergic reaction to these cats, and it’s all dependent on your sensitivity and the amount of allergens in the air.
If you do normally struggle with cat and dog allergies and choose to adopt a Sphynx cat, there are a few simple things you can do to help manage and reduce any symptoms you might still experience with any animals in the house:
1. Regular Bathing
Unlike other cat breeds, bathing your Sphynx about once a week is important for their hygiene and health. It can also be really beneficial for reducing and managing your allergies! Your Sphynx might not like the water, but this shouldn’t deter you from a weekly scrub.
2. Keep Your Home Clean
Your own hygiene in your home can play a role here, too. Make sure to keep your home clean to help reduce your allergies. Clean out your cat’s litterbox regularly, don’t let your pets on surfaces like kitchen counters, and make sure to vacuum your floors and sofas at least once a week as well.
3. Air Purifiers and Filters
Anyone who struggles with allergies of any nature should invest in an air purifier and filter! These devices can vastly improve the quality of the air in your home by removing all of the dander, dust, and general bacteria from the air you’re breathing. Not only will this help reduce your allergies, but also improve your general health.
4. Allergy Medication
If you still find yourself struggling with allergic reactions to your Sphynx cat, there are lots of different options for medication you can try out to help manage them. You can use typical over-the-counter allergy pills or try out natural remedies like Quercetin, Stinging Nettle, Vitamin C supplements, and even probiotics!
Are Sphynx Cats Right for You?
Now that you have all of the necessary information, you’re geared up to make a decision. Is adopting a Sphynx cat the right decision for you? If you have allergies but really want a pet, this can be an enticing option.
However, you still need to remember that a hairless cat won’t necessarily leave you allergy-free! It might be a good idea to implement a trial period and spend some time around Sphynx cats before you commit to adopting one to see whether or not you experience any allergic reactions.
If you have a friend who owns a Sphynx, visit them or ask them to bring their cat over. You might also think about fostering a Sphynx cat for a while or talk to a breeder about handling one of their litters to get a feel for your body’s response. If you find that you cope well, you’ll know that you’re safe to go ahead with your adoption and welcome your new pet into your home!
