Are British Shorthair Cats Hypoallergenic?

For those who love cats but are allergic to them, life involves making compromises. Yearning for the companionship of a sweet and cuddly feline like a British Shorthair can be disheartening when their mere presence triggers sneezing fits.

Some people try allergy shots or search for supposedly hypoallergenic cats to address the issue. Interestingly, the British Shorthair has gained a reputation as one such hypoallergenic breed.

However, based on my personal experience, I can confirm that if you are allergic to cats, you will also be allergic to a British Shorthair.

Do British Shorthair cats have hypoallergenic qualities?

Regrettably, they do not. Despite having short fur, their dense coat tends to scatter everywhere, even with regular brushing, as confirmed by British Shorthair owners. They generate allergens similar to any other cat, leading to the same allergic reactions. Although the fur is not the primary concern, the saliva and dander clinging to it can induce coughing and sneezing.

If you’ve landed on this page as a devoted cat lover struggling with cat allergies, you likely have several inquiries. Will owning a British Shorthair cat worsen your allergies? How can you prevent getting sick if you already have a cat and are allergic? What measures can you adopt to minimize the issue? Is it possible to safely keep a cat despite the allergies? 

Continue reading to discover some answers and, hopefully, a viable solution to your predicament. Although eliminating cat allergy problems entirely may not be possible, there are ways to significantly improve your allergy situation.

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What Makes a Cat Hypoallergenic?

Cats that are considered hypoallergenic produce lower levels of the protein Fel d 1, which is known to cause allergic reactions. These cats tend to be either hairless or have coats that require minimal grooming. Breeds of cats that are commonly considered hypoallergenic include the Balinese, Devon Rex, and Sphynx.

The type of fur your cat has can indeed play a role in determining their level of allergenicity. Cats with wiry and less soft or dense undercoats tend to shed less dander because the hair does not embed deeply into your skin when you pet them. As a result, these cats are often considered more hypoallergenic compared to breeds with denser or softer fur.

Short-coated felines such as Persian cats are considered hypoallergenic. For individuals with severe cat allergies, it may be advisable to consider adopting one of these hypoallergenic cat breeds instead:

• Bengal
• Cornish Rex
• Persian
• Russian Blue
• Siberian
• Siamese

Also Read: Are British Shorthairs Cats Friendly?

Can You Be Allergic To British Shorthair?

Are British Shorthair cats hypoallergenic? Please excuse me for a moment as I grab a tissue before responding. Sadly, no, they are not a hypoallergenic breed in any way! I can personally attest to this. As an avid cat lover, I cannot be dissuaded from cohabitating with a feline companion, despite the concerns of my GP.

Regrettably, my loving British Shorthairs trigger my allergies as severely as fluffy Persians or luxurious Maine Coons. It’s puzzling how the notion of them being less active cats became prevalent.

This breed possesses numerous delightful traits such as being friendly, sociable, independent, and Easy to train, yet being hypoallergenic is certainly not one of them. This misconception partly arises from their shorter hair, leading people to assume it is less allergenic compared to longer hair.

According to me, folks might have misinterpreted news about a genetically engineered cat that was claimed to be hypoallergenic a few years back. The company responsible for creating these cats used a method to modify the animals’ DNA, resulting in reduced production of an allergic-causing protein called Fel d 1 in their saliva. The aim was to lower the protein levels and, in turn, prevent susceptible from experiencing allergic reactions to the cats.

The latest information I received indicates that the responsible company intended to offer the kittens for approximately $3,500, a rather high price even for a purebred cat. The company initially used British Shorthairs as their first breeding stock, leading to the misconception that British Shorthairs naturally possess low-allergy properties. However, in reality, the breed was chosen not for any special hypoallergenic traits but because of their easygoing and affable nature.

Putting aside ethical concerns, I must admit that I can’t find fault with their choice. The British Shorthair is an exceptional option for several reasons: they are friendly, non-destructive, independent also sociable, and easy to care for. However, it’s important to note that they are not allergen-free, nor are they lower in allergens. They produce Fel d 1 and other proteins that can easily trigger allergic reactions in people who are susceptible leading to symptoms such as:

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Skin rashes
• Swollen eyes
• Even asthma

Also Read: 10 Important Facts To Know About The British Shorthairs as Pets

Animal saliva and dander contain certain proteins that can be transferred to their fur when they groom themselves. These proteins are shed and can end up on carpets, furniture, and even in the air.

The proteins are highly stable and do not readily degrade. As a result, some individuals with cat allergies may continue to experience reactions even after removing the cat from their surroundings. This is because the persistent proteins remain in the environment and continue to cause trouble. It’s worth noting that shorthaired cat breeds can trigger reactions in many sufferers comparable to those provoked by long-haired counterparts.

Despite my cat allergies, I have found a way to relish the companionship of my British Shorthair. Let me share with you how I handle this situation.

Also Read: How Long Do British Shorthair Cats Live?

What Causes Cat Allergies in Some People?

Cat allergies are caused by proteins found in their saliva, urine, and dander.

When cats groom themselves, these proteins are spread and can trigger an allergic reaction in some people.

Around 10-20% of people globally are estimated to be allergic to cats.

For instance, people with cat allergies may experience coughing or wheezing when they are around cats, or they may develop a red, itchy rash on their skin if they come into contact with a cat.

It is unclear exactly why some people are allergic to cats while others are not.

It is possible that people with cat allergies have a genetic predisposition to be allergic to cat proteins.

It is also possible that people with cat allergies are simply more sensitive to the proteins found in cat saliva, urine, and dander.

The misconception arises from the fact that British Shorthair cats do not shed hair that contains these allergenic particles. However, it’s essential to understand that this doesn’t necessarily mean they cannot still trigger allergies. 

Also Read: Female Vs Male British Shorthair Cats

The British Shorthair Triggers Me – How Can I Avoid It?

The concise response is that it’s not entirely possible to be completely free of symptoms while living with any cat, including a British Shorthair. However, there are measures you can take to minimize these symptoms to the point where they no longer trouble you.

From my personal experience, I have noticed that a cat allergy can possibly reduce as time goes on and your body becomes accustomed to the proteins like Fel d 1 that cause the allergy. It’s worth noting, however, that some individuals have reported the opposite result with their 

allergy symptoms worsening.

Implementing certain measures can significantly alleviate your issues, and it all begins with reducing the presence of allergens near you.

• Consider investing in a high-quality vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter, which effectively prevents allergens from being released back into the air as you clean.
• I made a habit to dust regularly and use a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces. Make sure to wear a face mask when you do dusting, it has proven to be quite effective in managing my allergies.
• Efforts should be made to prevent your British Shorthair or any other pets from entering your bedroom, try to keep it allergen-free as much as possible. Doing so will not only provide your body with a much-needed break from allergens but also enhance the quality of your sleep.
• Running an air purifier like Honeywell True HEPA Allergen Remover in your bedroom during the night is advisable, and you might also consider keeping one operating in other areas of your house.
• Whether you have cat allergies or not, It’s important to brush your British Shorthair once a week, even if you don’t have cat allergies. Their thick fur can easily become matted. Personally, I brush my cat twice a week and wear a dust mask while doing so. I also make sure to wear something that I can easily wash afterward.
• For those who suffer from allergies, it is often advised to give your cat a weekly bath. However, this can be easier said than done. While one of my British Shorthair cats enjoys baths, most cats are hesitant to get in the tub. It’s important to consider whether the effort to reduce symptoms is worth the struggle.

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I Can’t Stop Sneezing, Even After Cleaning My BSH Cat And My House! What Should I Do?

If your symptoms are impacting your daily routine, medication may provide relief. There are numerous effective drugstore medicines available.

Personally, I avoid taking antihistamines regularly but I do take a non-drowsy allergy pill once a day, about three times a week. I alternate between cetirizine and loratadine. 

For skin reactions, it’s advisable to wash your hands after petting a cat and use aqueous cream to alleviate itching.

Occasionally, I utilize nasal spray, such as a decongestant or beclometasone steroid, as well as eye drops. Additionally, I am diligent in properly taking all of my asthma medications as prescribed. However, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any medication regimen.

I find it very beneficial to talk to my local pharmacist as they can provide me with valuable information on allergies and conditions like asthma. They can also assist me in using allergy medication safely and correctly. If over-the-counter products are not effective, consulting a doctor about obtaining a stronger prescription is recommended.

When you suffer from a cat allergy, your doctor can provide advice on obtaining immunotherapy, also known as “allergy shots.” In cases where symptoms are severe, particularly if asthma is present, it may be necessary to consider re-homing your cat. While British Shorthairs may be beautiful, it’s not worth compromising your health for them. It’s a difficult decision, but prioritizing your well-being is important.

Are Genetically Engineered British Shorthairs Hypoallergenic?

While I admit that I am not an expert in the realm of genetic modification, I must express some skepticism regarding the concept. However, it is a fact that Fel d 1 is a significant allergen for people with cat allergies. Therefore, it stands to reason that reducing the amount of Fel d 1 produced by cats could lead to a significant decrease in allergy symptoms for affected individuals.

I share your uncertainty about the effectiveness of this project as advertised. While reducing the production of Fel d 1 could potentially lead to a decrease in allergen exposure, it’s essential to remember that even a minute amount of an allergen can trigger a response in sensitive individuals. If the cat continues to live with you, it’s possible that the allergen levels could accumulate over time, eventually reaching a threshold that could trigger allergic reactions.

I completely agree with your perspective on supposedly hypoallergenic breeds like Rex cats and Sphinxes. While these cats may be stunning and elegant in their own right, they may not necessarily be the definitive solution to allergy problems. For instance, my friend’s Devon Rex, despite being a delightful character, still triggers my sneezing.

Indeed, the absence of cat hair might make allergen control somewhat more manageable, but I remain unconvinced that a hairless cat is the ultimate answer to allergy woes. Regrettably, the reality seems to suggest that no cat breed can entirely eliminate allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.