13 Hypoallergenic Cats for People With Allergies
So you can enjoy kitty snuggles without sneezing.
If you love cats but sneeze every time one curls up nearby, you’re not alone. While no feline is completely allergen-free, some “hypoallergenic” cats produce fewer of the proteins that trigger allergic reactions. These cat breeds could make life a little easier for people who want to share their home with a furry friend.
Key Takeaways
- No cat is completely hypoallergenic, but certain breeds produce less of the Fel d 1 protein that causes cat allergies.
- Hairless and low-shedding breeds—like the Sphynx, Balinese, or Russian Blue—are often considered the best cats for allergies.
- Managing your allergies by brushing your cat, vacuuming your home, and using an air purifier might still be needed—even with “hypoallergenic” cat breeds.
Are There Hypoallergenic Cats?
Technically, no cat is 100% hypoallergenic. Cat allergies are caused by a protein called Fel d 1, which is found in cats’ saliva, skin, and dander. When cats groom themselves, this protein spreads onto their fur and into the air.
However, some cat breeds naturally produce less of the allergen or have coats that shed and spread it less widely. These “hypoallergenic” cat breeds can be a better fit for sensitive pet parents.
What Cats Are Hypoallergenic?
From sleek, low-shedding coats to hairless breeds, these are some of the best cats for allergies.
1. Balinese
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 10–15 years
Temperament: Social, affectionate, intelligent
Often called the “long-haired Siamese,” the Balinese cat produces less Fel d 1 protein than many other felines, which can make them a good choice for people with allergies. Balinese are playful cats who thrive on interaction and form close bonds with their families—often following you from room to room. Their fine, silky coat rarely mats and—despite its length—requires only a weekly brushing session to stay beautiful.
2. Bambino
Size: Small
Lifespan: 9–15 years
Temperament: Playful, outgoing, curious
The Bambino is a hairless hypoallergenic cat with short legs, thanks to its Munchkin ancestry. Despite their small stature, Bambinos are active and social—they love climbing, exploring, and engaging with their humans. Because they lack fur, regular bathing helps keep their skin clean and healthy.
3. Bengal
Size: Medium to large
Lifespan: 12–16 years
Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, confident
The Bengal is one of the most unique and beautiful cat breeds out there. Created by crossing domestic cats with Asian leopard cats, Bengals are large, spotted cats who look like mini leopards—and they’re also among the best hypoallergenic options. But Bengals aren’t for everyone: they’re highly intelligent and energetic felines that benefit from lots of interactive play and climbing spaces, like extra-large cat trees and wall-mounted shelves, to channel their curiosity.
4. Burmese
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 10–17 years
Temperament: Friendly, loyal, people-oriented
Burmese cats have a glossy, fine coat that doesn’t shed much—making them easier to live with if you have mild cat allergies. They’re known for their strong attachment to their humans and often prefer to be wherever you are. Their affectionate and loyal personality makes them an ideal lap cat for those seeking companionship.
5. Cornish Rex
Size: Small to medium
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Temperament: Active, affectionate, curious
The Cornish Rex has only a soft undercoat of downy fur instead of the typical triple coat most cats have. This limited coat reduces shedding and dander spread—earning them a reputation as a hypoallergenic cat. Cornish Rexes are energetic cats who enjoy games, high perches, and being the center of attention. Daily playtime—and plenty of cat toys—is essential.
6. Devon Rex
Size: Small to medium
Lifespan: 10–15 years
Temperament: Playful, affectionate, mischievous
The Devon Rex looks similar to the Cornish Rex, with soft, curly fur that clings closely to its body and sheds very little. Like the Cornish Rex, Devons are bright, lively, and love social interaction—they might even choose to curl up on your shoulder.
7. Javanese
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 10–15 years
Temperament: Intelligent, social, talkative
The Javanese cat sports a single, fine coat that lacks an underlayer—meaning less shedding and fewer airborne allergens. Known for their intelligence and vocal nature, these cats enjoy puzzle toys and chatting with their humans. Regular brushing helps maintain their silky coat and further reduces dander.
8. Oriental Shorthair
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 10–15 years
Temperament: Social, vocal, affectionate
A slender cat with big eyes and bat-like ears, the Oriental Shorthair has a short, smooth coat that lies close to the body. They’re social and expressive cats who thrive in lively, energetic households. Expect this hypoallergenic breed to form strong attachments and communicate frequently through their distinctive, almost goose-honk-like meow.
9. Russian Blue
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 10–20 years
Temperament: Gentle, loyal, reserved with strangers
The Russian Blue is prized for its plush double coat that sheds surprisingly little—some owners find brushing isn’t even necessary! Their calm, gentle nature suits quiet homes, and their affectionate loyalty often leads them to form close, lifelong bonds with their pet parents.
10. Siamese
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 12–20 years
Temperament: Affectionate, chatty, curious
It’s easy to recognize the Siamese: this cat has a short, color-point coat—meaning its ears, face, paws, and tail are darker than the rest of its body—as well as striking blue eyes and a famously affectionate, talkative personality. While not the most hypoallergenic breed, Siamese shed less than the average cat, making them a good fit for some people with allergies. Keeping Siamese cats at a healthy weight is important—and FurPetVo recommends consulting your veterinarian about nutrition tailored to their needs, such as FurPetVo’s line of breed-specific formulas available at furpetvo.com.
