Lovers of Sphynx, would you like to find out if Sphynx cats are hypoallergenic?
Well, the Sphynx is a unique cat breed that is known worldwide for being hairless and looking, well, a little alien. A fascinating fact we uncovered about this breed is that even though hairlessness is a naturally occurring genetic mutation, the Sphynx was developed via selective breeding. That’s why these cats can be completely hairless or have fine hair. Some Sphynx cats don’t even have whiskers!
For allergy sufferers, we have dedicated ourselves to finding out if this cat breed can be an excellent option for your homes. We have done thorough research on whether the Sphynx cats are indeed hypoallergenic or not.
So, let’s dive in…
Are Sphynx Cats Hypoallergenic?
For most allergy sufferers, the answer is yes. Sphynx cats were the first breeds to be considered to be hypoallergenic cats. Sphynx cats have a very low probability of triggering allergic reactions though it’s not because they are hairless, contrary to popular belief.
The main reasons why they are considered hypoallergenic include:
- Low to moderate dander production rate
- They don’t shed
- They produce less Fel D1
Even so, no cat is 100% hypoallergenic and Sphynx cats have been known to cause a few allergic reactions in individuals with ultra-sensitive allergic responses.
Cats, in general, are known to trigger a wide range of allergic reactions thanks to over six different allergy-causing antigens in their bodies. These antigens typically trigger skin and breathing allergies in sensitive individuals.
True to our style, we’ll dive deep into both types of allergies and how the Sphynx breed may affect allergy sufferers prone to either.
How to Know If Sphynx Cats Are Hypoallergenic to You
Several cats have a very low probability of triggering skin and breathing sensitivities and the Sphynx is generally one of them:
While the leading cause of breathing allergies is shedding, individuals with skin sensitivities have more factors to consider.Â
Do Sphynx Cats Shed?
No, Sphynx cats have a very low shedding level. Even though they seem hairless, some Sphynx cats have very fine hair on their coat. Fortunately, since Sphynx cats don’t shed much, if at all, there will be less airborne allergens floating around your home. Their hairlessness also means that they don’t trap other allergens in their coat, which is a secondary risk for allergy sufferers.
The other great news is that they also can’t leave saliva all over their coats when self-grooming, like other breeds do. Since some of them have small hair on their bodies, even if they do shed, you will hardly notice it. Therefore, you won’t really find cat hair all over your home.
Sphynx Cats Dander and Saliva Levels
Cats produce over six allergy-producing proteins, but feline albumin and feline d1 protein are the most common ones.
All cats produce these proteins, and this breed is no exception. That’s why the fact that they are mostly hairless isn’t the only thing allergy sufferers need to factor in. Sphynx cats still produce a low amount of fel d1 which is how they can trigger skin allergies. This protein is typically found in dander, saliva, urine and other substances they produce.
Sphynx cats have a very low dander production rate. Therefore, the probability of dander being released into your home environment can be quite low. However, your risk of saliva exposure may still be there.
It just depends on your Sphynx’s self-grooming patterns. Sphynx cats still lick themselves clean like most cats do. But they are also incredibly self-aware that they cannot properly clean themselves on their own.
This leads to some interesting behaviours from our not-so-furry felines friends! Many Sphynx owners notice that their cat simply approaches them when it is time for a bath instead of licking themselves clean. It sure is hard work to lick through all those skin folds!
The other risk with saliva exposure comes to drooling habits. Drooling is quite normal in cats, including Sphynx. Most of them drool when they are relaxed and happily rested on your laps though it’s not as significant an amount as with dogs.
Grooming and Coat Maintenance
Just because Sphynx have little to no hair all over their bodies, doesn’t mean that they can take care of their grooming. The many skin folds they have and their lack of fur means that they don’t have anything to absorb body oil; therefore, they must be bathed regularly.
Sphynx cats must be bathed at least once per week to get rid of the oil buildup on their skin. Just make sure you scrub properly in-between their folds and wrinkles. If not bathed, they can leave oily spots all over your clothing and furniture.
Just like all cats, the Sphynx cats don’t always like being bathed, so make sure you start washing them from a very young age.
Best Shampoo for Sphynx Cats
Since Sphynx cats have rather sensitive skin, it’s important you invest in a good shampoo to ensure their skin stays healthy and shiny! Here are our top picks…
Best Sphynx Cat Shampoo - Overall
Espree for Kittens
A mild shampoo that avoids irritation and itching is the best choice for a sphynx cat. Besides being mild, what we love about this shampoo is that it contains quality and natural ingredients. You don’t want to risk using a shampoo that has ingredients your cat is allergic to, so simpler can be better!
Best Waterless Shampoo for Sphynx Cats
Burt's Bees
If your sphynx doesn’t exactly love getting wet, this waterless option by Burt’s Bees is right up your alley! It’s the easy option for bathing your cat and can make bath time fun and a whole lot less messy.
2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner for Sphynx Cats
TropiClean
Sphynx cats battle with dry skin since it is always exposed and they lack fur which properly distributes moisturising oils across their skin. Especially after a bath, your sphynx needs to be moisturised and this all-in-one product helps you do just that!
Allergy-Friendly Tips for Living With a Sphynx Cat
Like all cats, this breed still produces allergens. And they have been known to cause a few allergic reactions in individuals with the highest level of sensitivities. So, we have prepared these tips to help you live with this breed safely.
Training
Sphynx cats are social and smart cats that respond well to positive reinforcement. So, we recommend that you teach them the following:
- To stay away from your bedroom
- Not to lick you, especially if you are allergic to cat saliva
- Potty training them so you minimise urine and fecal matter inside your home
Protect Your Home From Allergens
Since they rarely shed we recommend that you get the following allergy combating devices to manage any other allergens that may be present:
- High-quality air purifier
- A vacuum cleaner for cat dander
- HEPA filters
- Keep your allergy drugs handy
Key Takeaways
If you’re allergic to most cats but still want one anyway, the Sphynx is a decent option to consider. Even without any fur, they sure can be the cutest little cat angels you welcome into your home!
