best hypoallergenic dogs for cats

11 Hypoallergenic Cats for People With Allergies

More than 46 million homes in the U.S. have a cat. But if youre allergic, opening your house to a feline friend can be complicated. That said, there are some hypoallergenic cats that can be a good fit for your allergies.

What Is a Hypoallergenic Cat?

While all cats produce allergens in their fur, saliva, and urine, some breeds (commonly called hypoallergenic cats) produce lower levels of the proteins that trigger allergies. There is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic cat, but certain breeds might be a better fit for some people who sneeze and itch around kitties.

11 Cats That Are 'Hypoallergenic'

Here are some of the most common cat breeds for people with allergies. Keep in mind that, before bringing home a hypoallergenic cat, spend time with the breed to determine how your allergies react.

1. Siberian

Siberians are a popular hypoallergenic breed. Despite having thick, long hair, they produce less allergen-causing proteins than many other cats. Along with being a good cat for allergies, Siberians are friendly, affectionate, and make great family petsif you can keep up with their regular grooming needs.

2. Siamese

Another hypoallergenic cat is the Siamese. While there are zero non-shedding cats, this blue-eyed feline has a short coat that doesnt shed heavily. This means they dont produce as many allergens as some other breeds. Known for their vocal nature and adoration for their pet parents, Siamese cats have a lot to offer. However, they can be demanding in terms of attention and arent a good fit for families that are often away from home. To keep your Siamese healthy, talk to your veterinarian about Siamese cat-specific food and whether it's the right fit for your kitty.

3. Bengal

Bengal cats are a unique hypoallergenic breed. Their gorgeous, spotted short coat comes from their Asian leopard cat ancestors, giving them a wild appearance that makes them stand out. But these energetic and intelligent cats can be a handful for the unsuspecting pet parent, and some cities have regulationsor full-on bansin place against them. Bengal cats also have a breed-specific cat food; talk to your veterinarian if it's a good fit.

4. Russian Blue

Hypoallergenic Russian Blue cats have an affectionate personality and a quiet nature that make them popular pets. These calm kitties can be shy around strangers and may take some time to warm up to new people.

5. Sphynx

Compared to other cat breeds, Sphynx cats have a unique hypoallergenic quality: their near-nakedness. Sphynx cats can be completely bald or have a thin layer of peach fuzz, but all produce fewer allergens than many furry breeds. But that lack of hair doesnt mean they dont need to be groomedfor their skin to remain healthy and free of oil, they need regular maintenance.

6. Devon Rex

With short, curly hair, the Devon Rex is another one of the best cats for allergies. This breed is affectionate and intelligent, but they need a lot of attention from their family. So, if you are away from home for long periods of time, the Devon Rex may not be the best breed for you.

7. Cornish Rex

Like the Devon Rex, the curly hair and affectionate personality of Cornish Rex cats make them popular pets. Theyre known for loving attention and being great with kids. A Cornish Rex cat is high-energy and requires a lot of playtime and exercise, plus regular grooming sessions to keep their curly coat healthy. So, if youre looking for a low-maintenance pet, they might not be the best choice.

8. Javanese

Javanese cats are another hypoallergenic cat breed with a longer coat. Because of this, they need consistent grooming to prevent their fur from matting. These vocal kitties are playful, smart, and love being around peopleso much so, that they might seem a bit demanding for pet parents looking for a more independent cat.

9. Balinese

The Balinese is a long-haired breed closely related to the Siamese. As another affectionate cat breed, the Balinese is a great fit for all kinds of families, including those with children. They are also smart kitties and can be trained to do tricks.

10. Oriental Shorthair

Oriental Shorthair cats have a sleek and elegant appearance. Along with being a good cat for allergies, they require only minimal grooming because of their short coat. Bringing home an Oriental Shorthair gives you the perfect combination of intelligence and playfulness. Known for their activity and curiosity, they can be fun companions, love being around people, and have a distinct meow that sounds like a cute goose honk.

11. Burmese

The short-haired Burmese is another hypoallergenic cat breed that doesnt need much grooming. Theyre affectionate, smart, and high-energymeaning they need lots of playtime and exercise.

Tips for Adopting a Hypoallergenic Cat

Do Your Research

If youre looking for a hypoallergenic cat, you need to do your research to find the right fit. Getting to know the cat in person is crucial before bringing them home. By doing this, you can determine if the breed triggers your allergies and how you react.

Talk With Your Allergy Specialist

Consulting with an allergy specialist to determine the severity of your symptoms can be helpful before you bring home a new cat. They might also provide medication recommendations that can ease your symptoms.

Keep Your Home Clean

Regular cats shed a lot of hair and dander, which can accumulate on furniture, carpets, and clothing. In addition to being difficult to clean, this can exacerbate allergy symptoms. Its easier to keep the house clean when you have a hypoallergenic cat, as they shed less and produce less dander. That said, its just as important to keep up with cleaning up any fur that falls from hypoallergenic cats, to keep your sniffles to a minimum.

Talk With Your Veterinarian

In addition to choosing a hypoallergenic cat breed, theres an innovated cat food line (Purina Pro Plan LIVECLEAR) thats formulated to significantly reduce the major allergens in the hair, dandruff, and saliva of cats. Your veterinarian can help you determine if this diet would be a good fit for you and your cat.

WRITTEN BY

Nicole LaForest, LVT, BSc, MPH

Veterinarian Technician

Dogs That Are Good With Cats

There are dog people and there are cat people but what about those of us who love both? Can we have a cat and a dog in our household, or are they truly mortal enemies? Rest assured, dogs and cats can become the best of friends, or at least learn to peacefully coexist. If you already have a cat at home and are looking to add a dog, choosing the right breed will go a long way toward a harmonious relationship.

Understanding Breed Groups

Certain breed groups are more likely to get along with cats than others. For example, the Toy Group consists of breeds that are affectionate and sociable. They were bred to be companions and lap warmers. Members of the Sporting Group are friendly and outgoing. These happy-go-lucky dogs are pleased to make friends with anybody they meet, including cats.

On the other hand, spirited Terriers were developed to hunt and kill vermin. A fast-moving cat could trigger those feisty, predatory instincts. And the Sighthounds of the Hound Group are hardwired for a chase. No cat will appreciate being the target of that kind of attention. Finally, members of the Herding Group have a strong desire to herd anything that moves, including their owner and children. Some cats might find this too annoying to tolerate.

Keep in mind that these are generalizations. Most dog breeds can live calmly with a cat if they are socializedas puppies and are trained to leave the cat alone. Teaching your dog a leave it cue and a strong stay can help keep the peace. Proper introductions will also help, and its a good idea to make sure the cat always has an escape route. Never leave your new dog alone with your cat until you are positive they wont have issues.

The individual personality of both the dog and cat will also come into play. For example, an older cat that likes to be left alone might not mix well with an overly bouncy puppy. Do your research before bringing a dog into your cat-owning family and speak with potential breeders about the suitability of a given breed for a multi-pet household.

What Dog Breeds Are Good With Cats?

To start your investigation, here are nine dog breeds that are good with cats.

Basset Hounds

The Basset Hound is loyal, patient, and low-key. Training may be a bit of a challenge because they have a hounds stubborn streak, but their mild-mannered attitude makes them friendly and tolerant of other animals.

Beagles

Beagles were bred to hunt in packs, so they are typically friendly with other animals. Their happy-go-lucky nature makes them a pleasure to live with. They are loving companions that are likely to see a cat as just another member of the pack.

Bulldogs

These thickset dogs could certainly intimidate a cat if they wanted to, but they are renowned for their kind temperaments. Bulldogs are friendly toward other creatures. A Bulldogs easygoing personality makes it likely that theyll enjoy your cats company.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are adaptable, affectionate, gentle, and fearless little dogs. Although not much bigger than a cat, they arent likely to be intimidated. They are not only beautiful and wonderful companions, but they also love other animals.

Collies

These members of the Herding Group are famous for their love of children. For some, that love can extend to cats. Collies are athletic; they do best with a lot of exercise and companionship. They are vocal dogs that tend to be tolerant of other family pets.

Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are known for their playful personalities. They need a good amount of daily exercise, but they are adaptable and outgoing, which makes them potentially great cat companions.

Labrador Retrievers

These enthusiastic dogs are far larger than a cat, but they have more than enough love to give. Labrador Retrievers are kind and outgoing and are known to get along with everyone they meet, regardless of species. They are gentle, intelligent, and eager to please.

Papillons

These butterfly-eared dogs are about the size of a cat, but their happy and curious nature means they could see your cat as a friend. Papillons like to join in on whatever fun the family is having, even if it involves a cat.

Pugs

Pugs pack a lot of love into a little body. These dogs have a ton of personality and love attention. A cat can help keep them company when their owners are away. They may be small, but they are tough enough to have a feline playmate.

Best Dog Breeds for People With Allergies

So, you want a dog but you seem to have an allergy attack whenever youre around one? Youre not alone! Its estimated that 10 and 20% of people are allergic to cats and dogs, causing many prospective puppy owners to wonder which dogs are hypoallergenic. Spoiler alert: none of them are.

Thats right: no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. No, really. Well say it one more time for the people in the back: There is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog. No mixed-breed dog, no purebred dog, and most definitely not any so-called designer dog, is truly hypoallergenic, no matter what people claim or try to sell you.

That said, it is possible to find less-allergenic dog breeds that are better suited for people with allergies. These purebred dogs have a predictable, non-shedding coat that produces less dander. Dander, which clings to pet hair, is what causes most pet allergies in people. Even though dogs that are hypoallergenic dont truly exist, many breeds make it possible to enjoy the companionship of a dog, even if you suffer from allergies. That predictable coat of a purebred dog is key: you know what kind of coat these breeds will have, and there wont be surprises that end up making you sneeze.

There are also ways to prepare your home to help keep allergens at bay when you have a dog. Be sure to launder your pets bed often, keep up with their grooming, and consider not letting your dog sleep on your bed. Its also helpful to remove heavy carpets and drapes that can trap dander. Vacuum cleaners for pet hair and pet air purifiers also help remove allergens, and some can even groom the hair and dander right from your dog.

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is known for being aloof and dignified. They require regular exercise and grooming. They should be bathed and brushed twice a week.

American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier is a lively, friendly, and intelligent companion. The breed does well with children and is also good for city dwellers due to their minimal exercise needsregular walks and indoor playtime will do. They also need regular bathing and nail trimming.

Bedlington Terrier

The gentle, loveable Bedlington Terrier is known for its curly, wooly coat that resembles a lambs. The breed doesnt need intense exerciseregular playtime and daily walks will do.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a naturally gentle, happy, playful dog that loves activity. The Bichons hair continually grows and doesnt shed, so regular grooming is important to prevent mats.

Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is an alert, playful dog that thrives on human companionship. They are small and do well in families with gentle children. Cresteds shed little to no hair.

Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a small, hardy dog that is happy, eager to please, and loyal. The breed gets along well with other dogs and children. Their long coat requires daily grooming.

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is intelligent and can be territorial, naturally feeling protective of their family. The breed needs a lot of exercise and loves having a job to do. They require regular grooming.

Irish Water Spaniel

This strong, intelligent breed is the clown of the spaniel family. Irish Water Spaniels are active and energetic, needing daily exercise. Their water-repellant double coat requires brushing every few weeks.

Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier is energetic and fun-loving. The breed enjoys being part of an active family that can provide daily exercise. Their coats need regular brushing and trimming.

Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolois a happy dog with tons of energy, needing plenty of activity. They are affectionate and devoted to their owners. Their thick curly coat is similar to that of a Poodle. They require trimming and regular brushing to prevent mats.

Maltese

Though small, the Maltese is known for being brave, playful, and fearless. They have long, silky white hair that needs to be brushed daily to prevent mats.

Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer has a natural protective nature that makes them a great watchdog. The breed is smart and cheerful. They adapt well to different living environments, and their double coat requires clipping.

Peruvian Inca Orchid (Hairless)

The Peruvian Inca Orchid can be hairless or coated (the hairless variety does well with allergy sufferers). They also come in three different sizes (small, medium, and large). The breed is loyal and protective of its family. They also have a great deal of energy, needing regular activity. They have minimal grooming needs.

Poodle

The Poodle comes in three size varieties (Standard, Miniature, and Toy).The breed is exceptionally smart and active, needing daily exercise. Their trademark coat requires regular professional grooming.

Portuguese Water Dog

An athletic breed, the Portuguese Water Dogneeds vigorous daily exercise and would do best with a very active family. PWDs are intelligent, loyal workers. Their waterproof coat requires regular maintenance.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

This happy dog is active and needs plenty of exercise daily. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier adapts well to city, country, or suburban living, and does well with children. They have a silky, soft coat that needs regular grooming to prevent mats.

Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog is a lively, hardworking dog with natural protective instincts. They are a high-energy breed that does best with an active family. They require little grooming for their curly, wooly coat. No brushing is needed, but at least once a year, they should be shaved down.

Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer is a sociable, affectionate breed that has a fondness for kids. They are athletic dogs that need daily exercise. Their beard and leg hair should be brushed often to prevent mats.

Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli comes in three sizes (Toy, Miniature, and Standard). They also come in two varieties, hairless and coated. The hairless has smooth, tough, protective skin and the coated has a short, flat coat. Theyre calm, tranquil, and attentive, and can also be aloof. They have moderate exercise and grooming needs.

Choosing a Purebred Dog for People With Allergies

With all of these purebred dogs with predictable coat types, shedding, and dander levels to choose from, theres no reason for people with allergies to avoid getting a dog that works for their lifestyle (and their immune system). You can learn more about the activity levels, size, sociability, trainability, and types of sports these breeds may excel at by visiting our AKC.org breed pages, or using our Dog Breed Selector to see which of these less-allergenic dog breeds might be the perfect choice for you.