Are Birman Cats Hypoallergenic?
When considering a new pet, many potential owners have allergies to consider. Some people may assume that all cats are hypoallergenic, but this is not the case. However, there are certain breeds of cat that produce less dander than others – and one of those breeds is the Birman cat. But exactly how hypoallergenic are these cats?
What Causes Allergies in Cats?
Cat allergies can be caused by several factors including saliva, skin cells (dander), fur and even their urine or feces. The main culprit behind most cat allergies is dander – tiny flakes of skin that get released when a cat grooms itself or sheds its fur. Dander contains proteins which can trigger an allergic reaction in some people with allergies to animals.
Do Birmans Produce Less Dander than Other Breeds?
Birmans have been bred over centuries specifically for their beautiful coat and gentle temperament – so it should come as no surprise that they also produce less dander than other breeds of cats. Their thick coats trap much of the allergens produced by the cat’s body before they spread into the air where someone with an allergy could inhale them – meaning Birmans are generally better for households containing people with mild to moderate allergies compared to other breeds of cats such as Siamese or Bengal cats who have thinner coats which allow more allergens through into the environment around them.
