Are Devon Rex Cats Hypoallergenic? What You Need to Know
The Devon Rex is a unique cat breed known for its curly coat, playful personality, and unconventional appearance. Many people with allergies are drawn to the Devon Rex after hearing they are a hypoallergenic cat breed. But is this really true? Here's what you need to know about Devon Rex cats and allergies.
What Makes a Cat Hypoallergenic?
Cats produce multiple allergens that can cause issues for people with allergies. The biggest offenders are:
- Fel d 1 - a protein found in cat saliva, skin and urine. As cats groom, it gets transferred onto their fur and dander.
- Fel d 4 - a protein found in cat saliva. Causes issues when cats lick themselves or people.
- Dander - tiny skin flakes shed by cats. Saliva proteins stick to dander which then becomes airborne.
To truly be hypoallergenic, a cat would need to produce fewer allergens and shed significantly less dander than other cats. No cat is 100% non-allergenic, but certain breeds come closer.
Are Devon Rex Cats Hypoallergenic?
Devon Rex cats have several traits that may make them better tolerated by some allergy sufferers compared to other cats:
Less Dander
The Devon Rex has a very fine, downy coat that produces far less dander than most cats. Less dander means less saliva proteins becoming airborne.
Minimal Shedding
Unlike furry cats that shed hair everywhere, the Devon Rex sheds very little thanks to its lightweight coat. Less shedding again limits the spread of allergens.
Bathing
Devon Rex coats are so short that they can be bathed weekly. Bathing removes dander and allergens from the coat before they can be spread around.
Saliva
Early studies showed Devon Rex cats may produce lower levels of the Fel d 1 allergen in saliva compared to other cats. More research is needed in this area.
Considerations for Allergy Sufferers
While the Devon Rex exhibits some hypoallergenic traits, each individual's allergies vary:
- Meet adult Devon Rex cats before adopting to see if your allergies still react.
- Allergy symptoms may still occur but be milder and more tolerable.
- Consider taking allergy medication and bathing your Devon weekly.
- Keep Devon Rex cats out of bedrooms and restrict them to low-dander areas.
- Air filters, vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters, grooming and frequent laundering of items can help reduce allergens in the home environment.
Tips for Living with a Devon Rex with Allergies
If you decide to share your home with a Devon Rex cat, here are some tips for managing allergies:
- Brush your Devon Rex frequently with a stainless steel comb to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils that neutralize dander.
- Bathe your cat weekly with a cat-safe hypoallergenic shampoo. Dry thoroughly afterward.
- Feed your cat a high-quality diet. Poor nutrition can exacerbate skin and coat issues that increase shedding and dander production.
- Clean litter boxes frequently and use low-dust litter to minimize airborne particles.
- Use HEPA air filters throughout the home to remove allergens. Replace filters regularly.
- Vacuum regularly using a vacuum with a HEPA filter and wash all bedding weekly in hot water.
- Consider allergy shots or medication. See an allergist to determine the best treatment options for you.
The Verdict on Devon Rex Cats and Allergies
While not completely non-allergenic, the Devon Rex produces fewer allergens than most cat breeds. Their unique coat and grooming habits lend well to a low-dander environment. Allergy sufferers who follow proper precautions may tolerate life with a Devon Rex better than they would most cats. However, sensitivities vary person by person. Spend time with the breed before adopting to determine if a Devon Rex is right for you!