Will there be an allergy to a hairless cat if I am allergic to fur? - briefly
Yes, you may still experience allergies with a hairless cat even if your primary trigger is fur. The main culprit behind cat allergies is not the fur itself but the proteins found in cat saliva, urine, and dander (dead skin cells). Therefore, while a hairless cat has less fur to shed, these proteins can still cause an allergic reaction. It's crucial to spend time with any specific cat before committing to ensure that you do not experience symptoms.
Will there be an allergy to a hairless cat if I am allergic to fur? - in detail
Those who are allergic to cats often assume that the culprit is the cat's fur. However, it is important to understand that cat allergies are not solely caused by fur but rather by proteins found in the cat's saliva, dander (dead skin cells), and urine. These proteins, known as Fel d 1, are responsible for triggering allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Hairless cats, such as the Sphynx breed, do not have fur, but they still produce these allergenic proteins. Although the absence of fur may reduce the amount of dander and saliva transferred to your environment, it does not eliminate the allergens entirely. Therefore, if you are allergic to traditional cats with fur, there is a high likelihood that you will also be allergic to hairless cats.
Moreover, hairless cats can still shed skin cells, which contain the Fel d 1 protein. These skin cells, or dander, can become airborne and settle on surfaces throughout your home, continuing to trigger allergic reactions. While some people with cat allergies may experience milder symptoms around hairless cats due to reduced dander transfer, others may not notice any difference at all.
It is essential to remember that individual responses to allergens can vary greatly. Some people might be more sensitive to one type of allergen than another, and the severity of an allergic reaction can depend on numerous factors, including the amount of exposure and the specific cat breed. However, if you are highly allergic to cats, it is generally advisable to avoid contact with any type of cat, regardless of whether it has fur or not.
In conclusion, while hairless cats may produce less dander and saliva than their furred counterparts, they still carry the Fel d 1 protein that causes allergic reactions. Therefore, if you are allergic to furry cats, it is likely that you will also experience allergic symptoms around hairless cats.