Maine Coon lovers, would you like to know if this cat breed is hypoallergenic?
Well, Maine Coon is a pure cat breed that is loved by all cat lovers. Maine Coons are the biggest domesticated cats that are indigenous to the state of Maine. An interesting fact we uncovered about this breed is that it is one of the oldest natural cat breeds in North America.
For individuals with pet sensitivities, we have committed ourselves to answering several questions! But the most important one is finding out if this cat is ideal for your homes. We have gone straight to the details on whether this cat breed is hypoallergenic or not and why that is the case.
For answers to all your questions, please read on!
Are Maine Coons Hypoallergenic?
Regrettably, the answer is no. Maine Coons are not considered hypoallergenic; therefore, they have a high probability of affecting allergy sufferers.
The main reasons why the Maine Coons are not considered hypoallergenic include:
- Double coat with seasonal blowouts
- High maintenance
- Medium shedding level
- High dander & allergen exposure
Cats cause a wide range of allergic reactions, with the main ones being skin and breathing sensitivities. And the Maine Coons have a high probability of causing both.
Need more juicy details on this? Please read on!
How to Decide If the Maine Coons Are Hypoallergenic to You
The allergens that affect more than 90% of individuals with cat sensitivities come from the cat’s skin and saliva. Namely, there are specific proteins all cats produce which are found in all the substances their bodies produce and disperse throughout your home.
The way you come into contact with these proteins can also affect the type of allergic sensitivity you experience. For instance, airborne particles affect breathing allergies while skin sensitivities emerge from direct contact.
Do Maine Coons Shed a Lot?
Maine Coons don’t usually shed more than any other cat breed. However, they do tend to shed more during warmer months. Central heating may also see them shedding during winter months as well. It just depends on the individual cat’s shedding cycle. Normally, Maine Coons have a thick coat in winter and a thinner one in summer.
Maine Coons have medium to long hair length; therefore, you will notice their fur all over your home when they start shedding.
While they shed, all the allergens trapped on their coat also get released into the surrounding environment and are carried through the air. So, regular brushing and grooming can help reduce the level of allergens spread throughout your home!
Maine Coons Saliva and Dander Levels
The main protein that causes cat allergies is referred to as Fel d1. This protein is usually present in your cat’s urine, glands, and saliva. Therefore, when they groom themselves, they tend to spread the protein all over their bodies.
Several cats produce a low amount of Fel d1 protein; unfortunately, this breed is not one of them. So when they shed like crazy during warmer weather, it’s likely going to be allergy city in your home unless you stay on top of it!
All cats produce dander, and the Maine Coon is no exception. Having said that though, compared with other breeds Maine Coons have a low dander production rate.
When it comes to saliva exposure, drooling and self-grooming is quite normal in cats. In fact, your Maine Coon could be purring happily on your lap and leave damp spots all over your clothes. Their drooling levels increase when they have teething or when they have an oral condition.
As for their self-grooming habits, Maine Coons tend to groom the top layer of their coat, leaving saliva all over. Again, another way that you might come into contact with the dreaded allergy causing proteins!
If you love the Maine Coon, but want to reduce the chances of allergic reactions, please read on to the end! We have some suggestions for you coming up. But first…
Grooming and Coat Maintenance
Even though Maine Coons are generally clean cats, they need help. A lot of help! Otherwise their beautifully lush coats can become an allergy sufferers worst nightmare.
Maine Coons have thick coats and they struggle to get to the bottom layers of their fur on their own. This leaves a lot of saliva on the top layers that you come into contact with, and that also get released during shedding season. So that’s where you come in.
Like all the cats, the Maine Coons do self-groom; however, since their coats are very thick and a little grooming can go a long way. Remember, their thick coats can become matted easily; therefore, you must brush their coats at least once a week. You can also wipe their coats with kitty wipes for a quick clean.
However, make sure you brush your cat’s coat with a soft bristle brush. Hard bristles can hurt your cat, and this will make him hate grooming. Remember, cats hate having their coats brushed, so make sure you start grooming your Maine Coon’s coat at a very young age. A soft bristle brush can help keep their coats mat free.
In Love With the Maine Coon Cats and Want One Anyway? Tips for Reducing Allergies
Maine Coons are loved by everyone, and if you have decided to adopt this breed despite the allergies, we understand!
So we have prepared some tips that can help you keep the allergies at bay. However, living with this breed still poses a threat to your health and you should keep this in mind before making the big decision!
Training
Training Maine Coons can be generally challenging, especially for new cat owners. So, you have to be patient with them and use a positive reinforcement approach. With time you can teach your cat to:
- Not lick you
- Stay away from your bedroom, rugs, and furniture
- Always to stay within your compound
Fortify the House
We recommend that you get the following allergy-combating things to help you live with this cat peacefully.
- A high-quality air purifier
- A vacuum cleaner with an attachment for cat fur
- HEPA filters
- Get rid of most rug surfaces in the house
Final Thoughts
One of the best ways to lower allergic reactions is by adopting a Maine Coon hypoallergenic mix. However, Maine Coon hypoallergenic mixes are not all that common. So just try and follow the above tips, and you should be able to keep the allergies at bay. But, make sure you always have your allergy medications with you and be sensible with managing your sensitivities.
