As we talk from a facts point of view, there are many people who love to parent a cat but are prone to feline allergies, and they simply drop their plan of parenting a cat.
But, as people are becoming friendly with technology and gaining knowledge by surfing. And maybe encountered information regarding hypoallergenic dogs, and must be wondering if the same exists in the case of felines.
Questions like hairless breed are better for allergic people? Well, Breeds like Sphynx cats are hypoallergenic or not?
To clear your clouds of doubts, we are here with an ample amount of information regarding the Sphynx cat breed. We will also tell you whether they are hypoallergenic or not and people with allergies can enjoy the perks of parenting, etc.
Are Sphynx Cats Hypoallergenic?
As PetMD states, “No cat is entirely hypoallergenic, and since it is the body oils that generally produce the allergic reaction, the body oils of the Sphynx may be more of an allergen for some people because of the excess oil.“[1]
As per the study, it has been concluded that no cats are 100% hypoallergenic. If we talk about Sphynx cats, it’s true that they don’t give off allergies much because of the hairless factor. But, their body extracts oil that produces allergic reactions.
If you are prone to allergies, adopting a Sphynx cat is a good option but still, follow necessary precautions to avoid any skin reactions. It has been observed that people get allergic reactions to hairless breeds also because humans usually get an allergic reaction to cat skin as compared to hair.
Do Sphynx Cat Shed?
CFA states, “Some short hair is usually present on the nose, ears and sometimes on toes and tail. Seasonal and hormonal changes in the cat may also effect hair development.“
Sphynx cats are mostly hairless, and if in case they have hair it’s usually on the tail, nose, and ears. As discussed in the above paragraph, so they don’t shed much as compared to other breeds. And because of this, there are fewer chances of spreading dust particles, dirt, and airborne particles in the house.
Plus, the Sphynx cat is a hairless breed, which means they don’t easily trap dirt or dust on their skin.
Are All Sphynx Cats Hairless?
International Cat Care states, “Hairless cats have to be bathed on a regular basis. The skin may be prone to yeast infections and obviously the cats are susceptible to cold and to sunburn if they go outside.“
Well, all Sphynx cats are hairless, they only have light hair on their nose, tail, ears, and toes. However, all hairless breeds are not Sphynx cats, there are breeds that don’t have hair on their skin, which might be because of genetic or health issues.
Some hairless cat breeds are- Minskin, Donsky, Bambino, Elf cats, etc.
Can Sphynx Cats Have Dander?
As per PetMD, “Because of its fineness, the skin of the Sphynx is often compared to warm suede. It is often heavily wrinkled around the shoulders, between the ears, and around the muzzle. A well-behaved, high energy cat, the Sphynx is a true extrovert who loves human attention and will show off to keep it.“
Well, all cats produce allergy- protein through their skin, saliva, hair, etc. Sphynx is no exceptional case, they also produce protein but in a low amount. Still, it’s one of a kind, in their case they don’t produce allergy protein via shedding or losing hair, through saliva, the germs and bacterias trigger allergy.
So yeah Sphynx cats do have dander and it’s a fact via dander and saliva they transfer germs which leads to different types of allergy symptoms for those who are prone to allergy. Like mild symptoms, those who are perfectly fit can spend hours with them and no bacteria can harm their immune systems.
Friendly Tips for People With Allergies
As you must have got an idea that you won’t be able to get totally free hypoallergenic cat whom you can adopt and shower your love and affection. If you are one of those who are prone to allergies by feline pal’s surrounding, their smell, etc.
You need to check the following tips which we have jotted down after doing a lot of research and consulting with experts regarding allergies.
Scroll down to know better.
1. Create a Cat-Free Corner
This is one of the best ways to keep yourself away from the allergies which can cause by your feline pal. All you need to do is create a cat-free corner in the house, and make sure your kitty doesn’t step in like it can your favorite corner of the house, the bedroom where you spend more time.
In this way, that area will not get affected by her presence, and no dust particles will be there so you can spend your time comfortably.
However, by following this tip you won’t be able to snuggle up with your kitty while sleeping or give her a hug before bedtime. But it’s ok at least you can take care of her, and show your love and affection from distance.
2. Bathe Your Kitty
VCA states, “The general condition of your cat’s skin and coat are good indicators of her health. Although health and nutrition influence the shine and texture of your cat’s coat from the inside, regular grooming and skin care on the outside will help keep your cat’s coat clean and free of tangles, no matter what type of hair coat she has.“
Pampering your feline pal is very important as it not only gives her an attractive personality but also keeps her skin hydrated and healthy.
- It is advisable to take her for a shower and properly clean her body. They do not have hair and still need to clean their oily skin. Once a week taking her to a professional grooming center is a great idea because they will use high-quality shampoo and will effectively clean her full body removing all dirt and dust which are there on their skin.
- Try to use shampoo in minimal ration because too much of anything is also not good. You will end up damaging her skin and will create a skin allergy issue for her. It is also possible that her skin reaction will give off allergies to you also like itching. So be careful while taking her bath.
3. Clean Your House
Yes, it’s true Sphynx cats don’t have hair but they have oily skin. So, it’s equally important to keep your surroundings clean, no oily touch should be there on your bed, carpets, floor, furniture, etc. Look at a few factors, such as-
- Keep your sphynx cat away from your bedroom because that’s the place, where you spend most of your time. It’s advisable to keep your bedroom clean and cat-free area so that you won’t get affected.
- You can also do one thing, after knowing your kitty’s favorite corner in the house, cover those furniture, and carpet with not-so-attractive covers, and once she is back to her cozy corner you can remove those cover, and put it into the washing machine.
- Always keep a habit of dusting your furniture, and covers, with disinfecting spray. If on regular basis you keep on cleaning the surface, furniture, and carpets with disinfecting spray it will help to reduce the airborne particles and dust particles.
- In Sphynx cats, you don’t need to worry much about the loose hair but still, you can use an air purifier and vacuum, to keep the surroundings cleaner and hygienic.
4. Visit Doctor’s Clinic
If you are prone to allergies and after following all precautionary measures still you are getting affected by your beloved feline pal. In such a situation, it is advisable to visit the best allergy specialist, they will help you out in a better way by prescribing you medicine as per your health.
If you follow their prescribed course on a regular basis, you will overcome your allergy symptoms to some extent and can freely enjoy your kitty’s company.
FAQs
How much does a Sphynx cat cost?
As per the current survey, it has been observed that Sphynx cats are high-maintenance, and they will cost you around $1500-$4400. Due to their grooming, health check-up, and other related factors they are a bit costly among the other breeds available in the market.
Do Sphynx cats smell?
Cats groom themselves and like to keep their body and surrounding clean and hygienic. But still, it’s quite rare that certain breeds stink very much, and Sphynx is one of them. Like, it’s not because they are not hygienic, due to their genes and external factors, Sphynx gives off a strong smell, kinda stinking one.
Are Sphynx cats high maintenance?
Yes, Sphynx cats are very high maintenance, they don’t have much hair so doesn’t need brushing. But, they do have oily skin, and bathing is mandatory for them at least once a week. This is because if not washed their body properly the extracted oil will cause allergies and skin reactions. It is advisable to use premium quality shampoo or body wash for their bathing.
Well, It’s a Wrap!
Concluding our article on, Sphynx cats are hypoallergenic?
Confidently we were able to serve you the appropriate content to the table with all the facts-check and also covered experts’ views. It will help you to understand in a better way.
Now you know very well that Sphynx cats do not have hair, they don’t shed much as compared to other breeds so it reduces the chances of giving off allergies.
But, we also can’t overlook the fact that as they don’t require brushing and combing so oil is extracted in great volume, dirt and dust get stuck to their body. If on regular basis you don’t give her bathing then there are chances of getting skin allergies and will give off to others.
If you have allergies and still want to parent a feline, especially the Sphynx breed because of no hair. Then let me tell you one thing, spend a few days with her, observe yourself, and if you are comfortable with adopting her and ready to follow all the precautionary measures which we have mentioned above then you are more than welcome to enjoy the parenthood.
References:
- Genovese, D. W., Johnson, T. L., Lamb, K. E., & Gram, W. D. (2014). Histological and dermatoscopic description of sphynx cat skin. Veterinary dermatology, 25(6), 523-e90.