14 Purr-fect Cat Breeds That Even Allergy Sufferers Can Cuddle!

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About 32.1% of U.S. households are home to at least one cat, according to the American Pet Products Association (APPA). Love cats, but you can’t help but sneeze?

Pet allergies impact about 10 to 20 percent of the world’s population, and symptoms of cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies. The good news is that not all cats cause allergy attacks equally.

Some breeds are naturally hypoallergenic, susceptible to producing fewer allergens like the infamous Fel d 1 protein contained in saliva, skin, and fur. These 14 cat breeds – from sleek beauties to fluffy cuddle bugs – are perfectly okay for allergy sufferers to snuggle with!

Siberian

Even with their dense, luxurious coats, Siberians are acknowledged for producing much lower levels of the Fel d 1 protein than most breeds. Affectionate, playful, and great with kids, these gentle giants are kids’ favorites and, thus, the perfect pick for families.

Who knew that all that fluff could come with fewer sneezes? If you’ve ever wanted a giant, snuggly lap cat, your dream feline might be the Siberian.

Balinese

This rare breed is slick, beautiful, and a perfect hypoallergenic cat (sometimes simply called the ‘ideal hypoallergenic cat’). These cats have silky, medium-length fur but surprisingly don’t produce as much Fel d 1 protein as other cats.

Balinese cats are chatty and social, making them great pets for allergy sufferers who need a vocal cat who loves them. In addition, their bright blue eyes are hard to resist!

Bengal

Bengals are famous for their leopard-like coats, but they are also an allergy-friendly option. Their short, fine fur needs minimal grooming, meaning no exposure to allergens will spread around your home.

Bengals are active, intelligent cats and do best in homes that can match their energy. Who would not want a tiny jungle cat that isn’t going to make you sneeze?

Devon Rex

Devon Rex cats are as adorable as their big ears, pixie faces, and wavy coats. They have very little fur and shed even less, leaving less Fel d 1 spreading around your house.

They are playful, affectionate cats that like to be a part of everything you do.

Cornish Rex

The Cornish Rex has a short, wavy coat comprised only of down hair, the softest of the hair layers. As a result, they are one of the lowest-shedding breeds available.

Cornish Rex cats are best for active households as they are energetic, curious, and love to climb. Their velvety fur feels like petting a fuzzy, warm peach!

Oriental Shorthair

Close relatives to the Siamese, Oriental Shorthairs have the Siamese’s striking looks and social and talkative nature. Their short, fine coats shed practically nothing and thus are not likely to provoke allergies.

There are over 300 possibilities for colors and patterns for these cats! You’ve found your match if you’re looking for a fashionable, hypoallergenic feline friend.

Russian Blue

Russian Blues have emerald green eyes and plush silver-blue coats and are a dream for allergy sufferers. They produce less Fel d 1 protein and tend to be very meticulous self-groomers, which reduces allergens to a minimum.

These are gentle, reserved, loyal cats — perfect for quieter homes. Who wouldn’t want such an elegant, sneeze-free companion?

Javanese

The Javanese cat has a single medium-length coat without an undercoat that usually holds allergens. Its silkier fur is also easier to manage, and it produces fewer allergens than many other breeds.

Javanese cats are known for being playful and people-oriented. They make great companions for allergy sufferers looking for an active buddy.

Sphynx

The Sphynx may be the ultimate hypoallergenic cat because it doesn’t have any fu r to trap allergens. Although it’s not totally allergen-free, it is hairless, so allergy triggers are easier to deal with through regular baths.

These cats crave human interaction and are best for those with allergies looking for a devoted lap cat.

LaPerm

LaPerms are well known for their curly, short-to-long fur. As they shed less, allergen trapping is reduced, making them a good cat for sensitive people.

LaPerms are friendly, adaptable, and love to cuddle, so they’ll fit into any home. Their wavy coats make them look truly one of a kind!

Siamese

Siamese cats are known for their beauty and vocality, but did you know they are also considered hypoallergenic? Their short coats are less likely to shed dander, and their grooming routines keep allergens at a minimum.

Siamese cats are very social and faithful to their owners. The breed is a hard-to-beat choice for a talkative, loyal companion.

Burmese

Burmese cats are known for their short, silky coats and affectionate and friendly nature. They make less Fel d 1 protein and shed minimally, which makes them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

Playful and people-oriented, Burmese cats like to be the center of attention in a home. A Burmese would be great if you’re seeking a cuddly and lap-friendly cat.

Ocicat

Ocicats may look wild, but they are entirely domestic and surprisingly allergy-friendly. Their low-maintenance, weatherproof short coats don’t shed much, making them less likely to trigger reactions.

Ocicats are social, energetic, and well-suited for life with other pets. Their delightful personalities are like a cherry on their striped, spotted coats!

Chartreux

A rare breed, the Chartreux has a dense, water-resistant coat that generates less fur than most cats. These quiet, sweet cats are often good for allergy sufferers looking for a low-maintenance, calm companion.

As lovable as they are, their blue-gray fur and soulful golden eyes are simply gorgeous.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.