What Makes a Cat Hypoallergenic?
Cats produce allergens in their saliva, urine, and dander that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. However, some cat breeds produce lower levels of the Fel d 1 allergen protein and are considered “hypoallergenic.” While no cat is 100% non-allergenic, certain breeds like the Siberian, Balinese, and Russian Blue are known to be more tolerable for people with cat allergies.
The Siberian cat originates from Russia and has a thick, long coat that remarkably produces less dander. The Balinese cat is a long-haired Siamese that also has low Fel d 1 levels. The Russian Blue has a short, dense coat that doesn’t shed much. While no definitive scientific evidence proves these breeds are hypoallergenic, cat lovers with allergies report having fewer allergy symptoms around them.
In general, short-haired cats tend to produce less dander versus long-haired breeds. Male cats generate lower allergen levels than females. Kittens also initially produce lower amounts of Fel d 1 protein, so early exposure may help some people better tolerate specific cats. However, there are no guarantees when it comes to cat allergies, so meet various breeds first before adopting.
Comparing Hypoallergenic and Regular Cats
All cats produce allergens, but some breeds produce fewer allergens than others and are considered “hypoallergenic.” The main allergens in cats are found in their saliva, dander (dead skin cells), and urine. When a cat grooms itself, the saliva dries on the fur and skin. As the saliva dries, proteins in the saliva cause an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to cats.
Dander also contains allergy-causing proteins. When a cat sheds, the dander becomes airborne and can be breathed in. This causes allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The major allergen in cat dander is a protein called Fel d 1. Hypoallergenic cats produce less of this allergen. Regular cats tend to produce more Fel d 1 than hypoallergenic breeds.
Certain cat breeds, such as the Siberian and Balinese, have less of the Fel D 1 protein in their saliva and dander compared to other cat breeds. That’s why they cause fewer allergic reactions and are considered hypoallergenic. However, no cat is 100% allergen-free, so people with severe cat allergies may still react even to hypoallergenic breeds.
According to PetMD, “Hypoallergenic cats tend to have less undercoat, which is where proteins tend to concentrate.” https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/hypoallergenic-cat-breeds
Additional Considerations for Allergies
While choosing a hypoallergenic cat breed can help reduce allergens, there are additional steps that can further minimize allergic reactions for sensitive individuals. According to the Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center, keeping cats out of bedrooms and using HEPA air filters can significantly cut down on allergens like cat dander and saliva [1]. Frequent bathing, such as every 2-3 weeks, is also recommended to wash away allergens on the cat’s fur and skin before they can be spread around the home. Products like allergen-reducing shampoos and wipes can help maintain lower allergen levels between baths. With the right hypoallergenic cat breed and some additional precautions, those with cat allergies can still enjoy living with and caring for feline companions.
Cost of Adopting a Hypoallergenic Kitten
The cost of adopting a hypoallergenic kitten from a shelter or rescue can vary, but is typically in the range of $100 to $500. Most shelters and rescues charge an adoption fee to cover the initial vet care and vaccinations the kitten receives. This helps ensure the kitten is healthy before going to their new home.
For example, according to Cat Adoption Team[1], adoption fees for kittens between 2-11 months old are $225. Purebred Cat Rescue[2] charges $150-$500 for purebred kittens, with rare breed purebred kittens costing $300-$600.
The adoption fee for a hypoallergenic kitten may be on the higher end, given the increased demand and lower availability of certain hypoallergenic breeds. However, adopting still costs significantly less than purchasing from a breeder.
There are many benefits to adopting from a shelter/rescue beyond the lower cost. The adoption fee helps cover initial medical care, and adopting saves a life and reduces overcrowding in shelters.
[1] https://catadoptionteam.org/adopt/fees/
[2] https://purebredcatrescue.org/available-cats/
Cost of Purchasing a Hypoallergenic Kitten
The cost of purchasing a hypoallergenic kitten from a reputable breeder can vary greatly depending on the specific breed. However, on average, you can expect to pay $800 – $1,500 for a hypoallergenic kitten.
Some popular hypoallergenic breeds like the Siberian, Balinese, or Bengal often range between $1,000 – $1,500. More rare or exotic breeds can cost even more. The price depends on factors like breed, lineage, generation, coat colors/patterns, and breeder reputation.
Purchasing from a reputable breeder is recommended to ensure you get a healthy kitten with the expected hypoallergenic qualities. Avoid “bargain” kittens from irresponsible breeders or pet stores. While initially cheaper, they often end up costing more in vet bills and care.
Be sure to ask about health guarantees, vet checks, vaccinations, and other services the breeder provides. This initial purchase price is just the beginning of costs needed to properly care for your new hypoallergenic kitten.
Initial Vet Costs and Procedures
When you first adopt or purchase a hypoallergenic kitten, there will be some initial vet costs and procedures to budget for. The main costs include:
Spay/Neuter – This surgical procedure prevents female cats from going into heat and male cats from spraying and other behaviors. Spaying or neutering kittens early on is recommended by vets and costs between $50-$250 depending on the vet clinic.
Vaccinations – Core kitten vaccinations like rabies, distemper and upper respiratory vaccines will cost around $75-$150 for the full series. Yearly booster shots are needed after the initial kitten series.
Microchip – A microchip implanted under the skin contains identification information. Vets recommend microchipping kittens, with costs ranging from $25-$50.
Initial vet visits and procedures, including spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations and microchipping, may cost $200-$500 for a hypoallergenic kitten. Knowing these costs upfront helps set expectations when bringing home a new furry friend.
Ongoing Care and Supplies
Owning any cat comes with regular expenses for food, litter, and other supplies. For a hypoallergenic cat, these costs are largely the same as a regular cat.
Food costs will depend on the type and brand, but expect to budget around $20-$40 per month for high-quality hypoallergenic cat food. Cats need a constant supply of fresh litter, which could cost $10-$30 per month depending on litter type and your cat’s bathroom habits.
You’ll also need to buy essentials like food bowls, litter boxes, scratching posts, toys, treats, grooming tools, and more. These items can cost around $50-$100 per year to replace and replenish. Interactive toys and scratching posts will need replacing more often as they get worn down.
Annual vet visits for vaccines and checkups typically cost $200-$400. Additional vet fees may be incurred for illnesses, injuries, medications, bloodwork and other medical needs.
For a hypoallergenic cat, be prepared to spend around $50-$100 per month on average for food, litter, routine vet care and other basic supplies.
Average Monthly Costs
The monthly costs of owning a hypoallergenic cat can vary depending on the specific needs of your cat, but you can generally expect to budget between $50-$100 per month for food, litter, and routine care.
Food is typically the biggest regular expense for cat owners. High-quality hypoallergenic cat food designed for sensitive skin and stomachs can cost $20-$50 per month depending on your cat’s appetite and activity level. Cats with food sensitivities may require special prescription hypoallergenic food, which is more expensive.
Litter costs will depend on the type and brand you choose, with clumping litters typically costing $10-$30 per month for one cat. Some owners prefer more expensive natural litters for their hypoallergenic cats.
Routine veterinary care like vaccines, parasite prevention, and checkups will add $15-$30 per month on average. Annual vet visits for exams and bloodwork are extra but can be budgeted at around $100-200 per year.
Other costs like treats, toys, grooming supplies, insurance, and boarding may factor in as well but are not necessarily monthly expenses. With regular food, litter, and basic medical care budgeted, owners can expect an estimated monthly total of $50-$100 for a hypoallergenic cat.
Average Annual Costs
The average annual cost of owning a hypoallergenic cat can range from $800 to $1,500 per year. This factors in expenses like food, veterinary care, litter, toys, grooming supplies, and other necessities. Food is a significant recurring cost, estimated at $200 to $400 annually for a high-quality hypoallergenic diet. Routine vet visits for checkups and vaccines can add another $200 to $500 per year. Litter, litter boxes, toys, treats, grooming tools, and other supplies may cost $100 to $300 annually. Emergency vet visits for illnesses or injuries are hard to predict but should be budgeted for as well. On the lower end, an indoor-only hypoallergenic cat with no major health issues may cost around $800 per year. On the higher end, a more active cat requiring specialty food and veterinary care could cost $1,500 or more annually. Proper preventative care from a vet along with high-quality food and supplies can help control costs and keep your hypoallergenic cat happy and healthy.
Tips for Affording a Hypoallergenic Cat
To make caring for a hypoallergenic cat more affordable, here are some tips:
Get pet insurance, which can offset the cost of vet visits for illness and injuries. According to Reddit, preventative care and grooming is important for allergy management, so having insurance can take some of the financial worry away if issues come up.
Invest in preventative care like vaccines, flea/tick/heartworm medication, and dental cleanings to avoid larger medical bills down the road. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Buy food, litter, and other routine supplies in bulk which can be more economical. Check for deals online or at big box stores. Buying in bulk means fewer shopping trips too.
Look into wellness plan discounts offered by some vets. These packages cover the annual exams, vaccinations, and standard preventative tests that a cat needs to stay healthy.
Consider adopting an adult cat instead of a kitten, as they have lower initial vet costs and are often already spayed/neutered and up to date on vaccines.
