Is There Such a Thing As a Hypoallergenic Cat?

New research has discovered a glycoprotein allergen called Fel D1, as being the cause of the allergic reaction in 88-95% of people considered to be allergic to cats.  Better yet, there is a test where a cat may be tested as to whether or not they have the allergenic gene, Fel D1.

This research is of particular interest to me as my husband Michael has been allergic to cats for as long as I have known him.  For this reason, we were unable to have indoor cats who purr and cuddle with us, until now.  Though people can be allergic to any number of things, in Michael’s case, he is not allergic to our Silver Mountain Maine Coons.  We have recently tested several of our cats to find out that they are indeed negative for the Fel D1 gene.  This is great news for us and for the majority of folks who are allergic to cats, but who really want a cat of their own.

/https://silvermountainmainecoons.com/fel-d1-test-results/

Fel D1 is carried via the cat’s saliva, skin, tears, and scent glands near the anal area. From there, the allergen is spread via grooming and then becomes airborne.  It is then transferred to carpets and upholstery, even people’s clothing. I know this because when we were dating, if I had been around a cat, Michael’s allergic reaction would start to kick in as soon as I got into the car with him. The Fel D1 contamination is especially high around the cat litter box where the scent glands in the anal area are secreted. But it is also spread from skin glands where it stays on the fur and then, as it dries, becomes airborne and is spread throughout the home.  This is why when someone is discovered to have an allergy, one of the first recommendations is to clean or remove carpets and upholstered furniture.  It is also often recommended to re-home any pets which are bringing in the allergen.  

There is now a genetic test where cats be tested as to whether they have the DNA for Fel D1.  The results of this test are labeled “affected” for cats with the gene, and “Normal” for cats which do not carry it and which are therefore deemed to be hypoallergenic.

This is very good news.  If your family member’s allergies, as is typical for most people, is due to the Fel D1 gene, and you want a cat, it is worth considering hypoallergenic bloodlines tested as being negative for the gene.