Cats are adorable, snuggly creatures that can be endearing to most people. They are also playful, affectionate, and can comfortably bond with their caregivers, making them excellent emotional support animals (ESA). Cats and dogs are the most popular choices for a pet that will always be there for you as your companion.

However, pet allergies are common, and cat allergy is twice as common as dog allergies in the U.S. Many people think they can be allergic to the cat’s fur. But the truth is that the Fel d 1 protein found in the cat’s saliva is the one causing allergies.

That said, receiving emotional support from a cat that may give you allergies can be troublesome. Thankfully, there are hypoallergenic cat breeds that are also great ESAs. Here are six different cat breeds for those allergic to cats.

1. Siberian

Siberians, also known as the Siberian forest cat, originate from Siberia in Russia. If you live in a cold weather place, their luxurious, long, triple coat hairs make them perfect ESAs for you. This breed is fantastic for people with allergies because they have less Fel d 1 protein in their saliva.

These cats are intelligent, easy to train, and very social animals who adore their human companion. Since Siberians are happy to have an audience, you can count on them to get along well with children, other animals, and visitors.

2. Balinese

Like Siberians, the Balinese are well known to have lower levels of Fel d 1 protein than other cat breeds. Many cat lovers favor this breed because of its intelligence, friendliness, curiosity, and striking beauty. They also have a playful nature, tend to be adaptable, and are often vocal — but can be rather demanding.

Nevertheless, they are excellent around children and other pets, making them ideal pets for giving emotional support.

3. Cornish Rex

Cornish Rexes may be unusual looking with huge ears, but they are very clever, highly social cats with an acrobatic, clownish personality. Although they don’t produce less Fel d 1 compared to other cats, they have thin coats that often do well with people with cat hair allergies. Plus,

these unique coats make them feel warm to the touch and enjoy snuggling under blankets or with their favorite human companion.

4. Siamese

Siamese cats are not only similar to Balinese cats in terms of looks, but they also have less Fel d 1 in their system, so allergic cat lovers can have them as ESA. This cat breed is highly intelligent, talkative, and loves to socialize. They also have a fondness for playing fetch and prefer to have their human companion by their side.

5. Burmese

Burmese cats make excellent emotional support animals due to their intelligence, affection, and extreme loyalty. They are also very social and love being with people. If you own a Burmese, you’ll notice that they tend to follow you from room to room and sit on your lap often. Their charmingly scratchy meow can surely help cheer you up.

6. Russian Blue

Russian Blue cats are easily recognizable due to their stunning silver-tipped hair. Their emotional intelligence, sweet-tempered nature, loyalty, empathy, and adaptability are all astounding qualities that make them great ESAs. However, this cat breed is the least hypoallergenic on this list. So, for individuals who have severe allergies, Russian Blue cats may not be the best option for them.

Conclusion

If you have allergies and want a cat as your emotional support companion, look into cat breeds with low levels of Fel d 1, minimal shedding, and low grooming needs. Every cat is unique and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. So choose what cat personalities endear you the most. As for hypoallergenic tendencies, it’s better to consult breeders, veterinarians, or other experts to help you decide which cat breed is best for you.

Read related articles here:

• Do You Need An Emotional Support Animal? 5 Signs
• 6 Best Cat Breeds That Provide Emotional Support
• How to Ask a Doctor for an Emotional Support Animal Letter

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