Do you have a family member who’s allergic to cats? Check out the recommendations in the Allergen All-Star Pet Awards recognizing the top 11 animals that produce lower allergen levels. (Allergens are found in pet dander, saliva and urine–so it’s not just that long-haired cat or dog who presents an allergy risk.)
The winners list was compiled by a team of independent researchers and scientists with Environmental Health & Engineering and is sponsored by the makers of the new Honeywell Doctor’s Choice True HEPA Air Purifier.
“According to the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America, 15 to 30 percent of the U.S. population is allergic to cats or dogs. Exposure to pet allergens typically occurs in the home when fur, dander or dried saliva become airborne and are inhaled. Activities like jumping on a couch or running around a room can stir up these allergens and exacerbate the issue for families,” said Dr. Ted Myatt, ScD, a senior scientist at Environmental Health & Engineering. “It’s important to note that no breed of dogs or cats has been proven to be truly hypo-allergenic, but studies suggest that some may be more allergen-friendly than others.”
The list included numerous dog breeds and crossbreeds (Bedlington Terrier, Irish Water Spaniel, Italian Greyhound, Labradoodle, Labrador Retriever, Maltese, Schnauzer, Yorkshire Terrier) but also featured two cat breeds:
Devon Rex Cat – a breed of intelligent, short-haired cat from England. They are known for their slender bodies, wavy coats, and large ears. Rex cats shed little hair and have short fur.
Javanese Cat – a breed of domestic cat recognized as a show cat with a long, elegant build. Although classified as an oriental longhair cat, this breed has no undercoat and therefore less fur to shed. Even cats with little fur do shed to some degree.
Do you have anyone in your household with pet allergies?
Top Image credit: isselee / 123RF Stock Photo Bottom Image credit:Starjely/ Wikipedia under Creative Commons License
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