Lovers of the Scottish Fold, would you like to find out if this cat breed is hypoallergenic?
Originally called lops or lop-eared, the Scottish Fold is known worldwide for its unique owl-like appearance. An interesting fact we discovered about this breed is that its unique appearance is caused by a natural dominant-gene mutation affecting its cartilages. This breed became known as the Scottish Fold in 1966.
For allergy sufferers, we have devoted to finding out if the Scottish Fold is an excellent option for your residence. And true to our style, we have gone straight to the details on whether Scottish Fold cats are hypoallergenic or not.
So, let’s dig in!
Are Scottish Fold Cats Hypoallergenic?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Scottish Fold cats are not considered to be hypoallergenic since they can affect allergy prone people. Despite their short coats, the Scottish Folds are moderate, shedding cats that can trigger both breathing and skin allergies. This breed also produces Fel d1 protein, just like most other cats. Despite a low dander production rate, it can still trigger allergic reactions in many people.
No cat is 100% guaranteed to not cause any allergic reaction since they all produce the substances known to irritate people with cat allergies. The main one in question is Fel d1 protein which is found in their skin, saliva, and urine, among other bodily fluids. And with the Scottish Fold, the probability of allergen exposure is quite high.
How Scottish Fold Cats Affect Breathing & Skin Allergies
Like all cat breeds, the Scottish Folds can trigger numerous allergic reactions, with the common ones being breathing and skin allergies. But, since allergies depend on your unique sensitivities, you could be safe if your sensitivities are mild.
Skin allergies are usually caused by exposure to substances containing Fel d1 protein such as urine, saliva, or dander, among others. While breathing allergies are caused by numerous airborne allergens like fur and dander which become airborne during shedding cycles.
Below, we’ll look into all these factors so you can get a better sense of your risk if you bring a Scottish Fold into your home.
Do Scottish Folds Shed a Lot?
Not really. Scottish Folds are moderate shedding cats, however, they tend to shed more when allowed to play outside. The Scottish Folds that are allowed outside shed more during fall and spring in preparation for the coming season. Indoor Scottish Folds shed evenly all year long. Therefore, regular grooming and proper nutrition can help you manage their shedding levels.
Most Scottish Folds have short hair lengths; therefore, you might not notice their fur in the house when they do shed.
However, there is also a long-haired variant of the Scottish Fold. And as they shed, these lovely creatures drop all the trapped outdoor allergens and dander into the environment, which can trigger your breathing allergies!
If you do want to bring a Scottish Fold into your home, it may be safer if you opt for a short-haired variation instead.
Scottish Fold Saliva & Dander Exposure
The Fel d1 protein in this cat breed’s saliva, urine, and skin is a significant concern for people with skin allergies. However, you could be safe if you are not affected by this cat’s saliva or dander.
Scottish Folds have a very low dander production rate, which can be easily reduced further by proper grooming. Like other cats, the Scottish Fold also releases dander when they start shedding.
When it comes to saliva exposure, cats are not big slobbers. Cats tend to drool when happy, and the Scottish Fold is no exception. However, they love licking themselves clean several times a day which coats their fur in saliva – yet another allergen that gets released into the air as they shed.
Grooming and Coat Maintenance
Scottish Folds are generally clean cats that don’t need to be bathed regularly. However, if your Scottish Fold has an itchy coat, then it’s time for a bath.
Make sure you wash them with the right shampoo that will leave its coat and skin healthy and clean.
Even though this breed loves self-grooming, regular brushing can help keep their coats in shape. Regular grooming can help remove loose hair and dander, massage their skin, and stimulate circulation.
The long-haired ones should be brushed twice a week while the short-haired cats can be groomed once per week.
In Love With the Scottish Folds and Want One Anyway? Tips for Managing Allergies
Scottish Fold cats are unique creatures, so we understand!
Here are a few tips to help you manage allergies while living with this breed. These unique tips are a great way forward; however, living with the Scottish Fold still poses an unavoidable risk to your health.
Training
Scottish Folds are intelligent creatures that can be taught anything, including how to high-five and sit. But, you have to do it in a silent place with no distractions when training them. Never use punishment as that will induce stress and fear in your cat. Remember, if they like it, they will do it again. So we recommend that you teach them the following:
- To stay away from your textile surfaces, furniture, and bedrooms
- Never to lick you, especially if you react to their saliva
- To always stay in your house’s boundaries
- Proper potty training
Protect Your Home
We recommend that you get the following devices to help you fight allergies:
- Install HEPA filters
- A high-quality vacuum cleaner
- An air purifier
- Get rid of most of the textile surfaces in the house
- Always keep your allergy tabs near you
Key Takeaways
While the Scottish Fold cat breed is not considered to be hypoallergenic, it really does depend on your unique sensitivities. We hope this article gave you a better sense of what triggers allergies with a Scottish Fold around.
We also suggest you go through our list of hypoallergenic cats to find an alternative breed that may be a safer option for your home!
