Devon Rex lovers, would you love to know if this breed is hypoallergenic?
Blessed with a unique appearance and looks, Devon Rex is known worldwide for its large ears, wavy coat, and slender body. An interesting fact we uncovered about this breed is that it emerged in the United Kingdom during the 1950s. It is a highly intelligent breed that can learn complicated tricks, but motivating them can be quite challenging.
We are committed to allergy sufferers to find out if Devon Rex cats are hypoallergenic and can be ideal for their homes. True to our style, we’ve gone right down to the detail on all things Devon Rex and allergies.
Need more details on this? Please read on!
Are Devon Rex Hypoallergenic?
Yes, Devon Rex are considered to be hypoallergenic. This hypoallergenic weirdo is known for its curly hair, triangle face shape, and large ears. Devon Rex are considered hypoallergenic because their hair absorbs the oils containing the Fel d 1 protein and they do not shed very much. With regular bathing, they are less likely to irritate your allergies. Well suited for allergic families seeking a furry goofball to keep life interesting!
The leading cause of allergies is the allergy-causing protein found in all cats known as Fel d1. This protein is present in dander, saliva, and urine, among other bodily fluids. Some allergy sufferers react less to some breeds, but no reputable breeders can guarantee that their cats are 100% allergy-friendly, even Devon Rex cats.
So in saying that, Devon Rex can still trigger several allergies in highly allergic people. The most common being skin and breathing allergies, and there is always a chance that even a hypoallergenic Devon Rex can trigger both.
How to Know If Devon Rex Cats Are Hypoallergenic to You
First thing’s first, it will depend on your unique sensitivities. Some people with allergies to cats find that they are totally fine around a Devon Rex and you may find the same. Spending time around this breed can help you see if they trigger your allergies or not.
If you’re prone to breathing allergies, you may find that since this wavy-haired, waif-like breed barely gives your nose a tickle since they don’t really shed that much not do they release many other airborne allergens like dander. We’ll get more into this in another section below.
For people who are prone to skin allergies, your risk is when coming into direct contact with the Fel d1 protein produced by cats and found in substances they secrete like saliva, urine and even their dead skin cells. If your skin gets itchy when you touch a Devon Rex, better look for another hypoallergenic cat breed which naturally produces less Fel d1.
Do Devon Rex Cats Shed a Lot?
No, Devon Rex is a low shedding cat breed. Even though they still shed, their unique coats make their shedding less obtrusive than in most cats. Since their fur is thin and fragile, it is unlikely you’ll notice it around your home.
These cats have a short to medium hair length with a soft and wavy coat and a distinctive texture. Remember, no two Devon Rex cats have similar coats. Some coats have uniform marcelling lines, while others have almost straight furs with gentle waves.
One thing to note, Devon Rex are prone to skin conditions which can lead to increased shedding and dander production. If you do notice your cat is shedding abnormally, there may be an underlying health condition that needs a vet’s attention.
Devon Rex Dander and Saliva Exposure
For people with skin sensitivities, the Fel d1 allergy-causing protein in Devon Rex’s saliva and skin is still a concern. But, allergies depend on a person’s unique sensitivities. So, you might be safe if your allergies are on the mild end and you aren’t affected by this particular breed’s saliva and dander after spending time around it.
All cat breeds produce dander, and Devon Rex is no exception. Just like all cats, Devon Rex also releases the trapped dander and outdoor allergens when they start shedding. And this can trigger severe allergies in highly sensitive sufferers. But, since they are low shedding cats, less allergen is usually released in the house.
The unique texture of their coat also absorbs much of the Fel d1 they produce which further prevents it spreading throughout your home.
On the other side, when it comes to saliva exposure, Devon Rex cats tend to self-groom numerous times every day. And their saliva has a high likelihood of affecting sufferers when trapped in their coat. A good brand of cat wipes can be your saving grace here!
Grooming and Coat Maintenance
Devon Rex cats are generally clean pets that should not be bathed regularly. This breed can do with little to no baths thanks to the fragile nature of their coats. Devon Rex should only be washed when they get into something nasty and cannot clean themselves up.
Make sure you wash them using the right shampoo.
These goofball cats have soft, wavy fur that requires a minimum amount of care. Devon Rex kittens have delicate fur that can be easily pulled out. And this is one of the reasons why this breed is rarely brushed. Just a simple stroke using the owner’s hand, damp cloth, or chamois leather can help smoothen their coat and emphasize the waves.
Devon Rex cats also have three layers of fur; modified guard, awn, and down hairs. Since their sparse guard furs can easily break, it is ideal to avoid brushing them.
We gotta say, compared to some of their high-shedding counterparts, this breed can be a total breeze to maintain for allergy sufferers. The ease of grooming and the fact that you can easily minimise direct contact with their skin and fur can be a real godsend if you are prone to skin allergies!
In Love With Devon Rex Cat and Want One Despite Your Allergies?
Devon Rex cats are unique cats that are absolutely adorable goofballs, so we get it!
Here are a few tips to help you live peacefully with your beloved Devon Rex. Even though these tips are a great way forward, living with any kind of pet will always pose a great risk to your allergies. So, make sure you do everything you can to protect yourself if you choose to bring a Devon Rex home.
Training
Devon Rex cats are known for their friendly and comical personality. These cats strive to please their owners, and they can do anything just to stay near people. They are intelligent creatures that can be taught numerous tricks.
Living with a trained Devon Rex can be quite enjoyable. And since they are indoor creatures, potty training is mandatory. So we recommend that you also teach them the following:
- To not lick you, especially if you are allergic to their saliva
- To stay away from your bedrooms, furniture, and textile surfaces
- To always stay and play within your residence’s boundaries
If your cat goes outside, make sure you wipe them down immediately after so they do not bring in pollen or other outdoor allergens back with them.
Protect Your Home
Managing your cat is one thing, protecting your indoor air quality and eliminating allergens from your home is another. With a pet in your household, you should fortify your home using the following allergy-fighting devices:
- HEPA filters for your air conditioner and cleaning devices
- High-quality air purifier
- High-quality vacuum cleaner
- Lint rollers for cleaning the textile surfaces
- Get rid of most of the textile surfaces in the house
Also remember to keep your allergy medication in the house and handy, just to be on the safe side!
Choose a Hypoallergenic Devon Rex Breed Mix for Less Allergic Reactions
If you are allergic to the Devon Rex but still want one anyway, you may find that a hypoallergenic Devon Rex cross breed may be the answer. There are two hypoallergenic mixes worth looking into.
The first is the Devon Rex Siamese mix. Both are low shedding breeds by nature. However, the Siamese cat’s longer fur helps trap dander closer to its body, which is a feature that may make this cross breed the perfect option for you.
The other mixed breed worth considering is a Devon Rex Sphynx cat. Sphynx cats are also naturally hypoallergenic, they are hairless and produce less of the allergy causing proteins than most other cat breeds. Therefore, there is a huge probability that this hybrid will have a lower probability of triggering allergies.
Final Thoughts
While the Devon Rex is considered hypoallergenic because there is a reduced likelihood that it will trigger allergies, if you are highly sensitive to cats, you may still react to this breed.
However, if you experience low to moderate levels of allergic reactions to cats, you may be in the clear. In either case, spending time around Devon Rex cats will be the only way to know for sure. Just make sure to have your allergy meds handy just in case.
You can also check out our list of hypoallergenic cats if you think a n alternative breed may be a better option for you!
