Birman cats are nice to look at, and they have an attitude that makes loving them easy. People love to cuddle them, and their beautiful flowing coats feel wonderful to touch.
Petting a cat and just being with a cat, like the Birman, can melt away stresses, and it is a true therapeutic intervention that can help with well-being and mental health.
Are Birman cats hypoallergenic, however? Imagine petting your cat one day, and you are suddenly seized by a sneezing fit.
As much as you love your cat, their presence is causing you to have health concerns. Where are Birmans in the hypoallergenic scale, and how do they compare with other breeds? Should you get a Birman in your life if it means living with allergens?
Are Birman Cats Hypoallergenic–Not Entirely
The big question is: are Birman cats hypoallergenic? The answer is yes but not entirely, it should be explained.
Birman cats are not entirely technically hypoallergenic. However, allergy response with a Birman are typically not as bad. The fur is not what causes the allergic reaction but rather cat saliva and dander.
Birmans do not produce as much dander as other cats, and it is a plus, they do not have an undercoat.
Their long, flowing and silky coats is not prone to matting, so there is less fur saliva and dander coming off. Birmans can, overall, be a good pet for people with allergies.
Truly hypoallergenic?
Is there a truly hypoallergenic cat? The truth is truly hypoallergenic does not exist, and even hairless cats such as the Sphynx are not truly hypoallergenic.
The reason for this is that the allergy comes from the cat’s saliva, skin, and urine and not from their fur. All cats have these, so no cat is be said to be 100% hypoallergenic.
The best that can be hoped for is that the cat doesn’t shed too much. Birmans have an advantage with are Birman cats hypoallergenic because, despite their long flowing coats, they typically shed less. People also find that they have fewer allergies with a cat, the longer they have lived with them.
Allergy Getting Better Over Time?
Exposure can vastly reduce the severity of the allergy if you are a pet owner with an allergy. Bringing a cat for the first time at home can be disconcerting as you will be experiencing allergies more than the usual.
This can happen whether you are bringing home a Birman or a less hairy cat. You are bound to have a severe reaction. After a month of living with them though you will notice that your reactions become less severe.
Allergies are essentially an overreaction of the immune system. Exposing yourself more to the source teaches your immune system that allergies are less of a problem, which will reduce your overall reaction.
This is the reason why people with allergies to peanuts take up controlled dosages of peanuts in allergy clinics. Controlled exposure helps reduce reaction upon accidental exposure later on.
This is the same principle with cat and other pet allergies. Just living near them and sharing the same living space and air will allow this principle to work, and you will have controlled your allergies after the long term.
Do Male or Female Cats Produce More Allergens?
Does the sex of your cat matter with allergens? Believe it or not, but it does. The sex of your cat affects how much allergens they release into the air.
Birmans, despite their sex, already have an advantage because they shed less and thus release less of the substances that cause allergies. Are Birman cats hypoallergenic despite their sex? Yes.
If you really want to have fewer allergies in the air, however, you may consider getting a female cat instead of a male. Neutering males can help them produce fewer allergens, but they still produce more than female cats overall.
If you bring home a female cat, you may be able to manage your allergy that much easier, although this may not be a choice for everyone.
There are factors why you would choose a cat aside from the hypoallergenic quality. Personality comes into play, and some people may find male cats to be better suited to their needs since these cats are more independent.
If being hypoallergenic is a primary factor, stick to a girl, but if you want to explore unique personalities, do consider both males and females.
Does Color Matter When It Comes to Hypoallergenic Cats?
Does fur color have an impact on the hypoallergenic quality of your cat? The quick answer is yes; color does affect how many allergens are produced, but this cannot be understood just yet.
Typically, dark-colored cats will produce more allergens than lighter colored cats. This may only make a minimal difference, but it is good to get a light-colored cat to reduce your allergic reactions.
Are Birman cats hypoallergenic because of their light-colored coat? Birman cats make good cats for allergic pet parents in this respect.
They are all white in color as kittens and only develop slight color changes as they age. Their main color, however, remains to be light, and this is a coat color they will retain for most of their life.
Kitten or Adult?
The age of your cat can also affect the number of allergies they release. Kittens, as a rule, produce fewer of them.
Allergies also tend to get less serious over time, so with continued exposure getting a kitten will reduce allergic reactions, and you can fully live harmoniously with your new pet.
However, as mentioned, a hypoallergenic cat may not be your top priority. You may be looking for a cat with a more stable personality, and adult cats are more predictable.
You have to factor in what is the most important feature you are looking for in a cat and what matters to you in cat ownership. If you do not suffer from severe allergic reactions, a hypoallergenic quality may not be on top of your list.
Are Birman Cats Hypoallergenic -Habits that Make Living with Cats and a Cat Allergy Easier
If you have picked up a cat that is more or less hypoallergenic, you must remember that you have to develop habits and routines to make your space truly hygienic and to prevent allergies from spreading and causing problems.
These allergy preventive measures are generally easy to do and won’t cause you much hassle.
Don’t have cats on your bed
Cats may be cuddly bed companions, but it is better to keep the cat off the mattress than to develop the habit of sleeping with them, especially if you have an allergy. You need a good night’s sleep to ensure your immune system is working correctly. Inadequate sleep can cause your allergy symptoms to get worse and harder to deal with
The crucial point is not to get your cat on the bed, although some cat owners will entirely ban their cat in the bedroom. If the cat does leap on the bed or you catch them on it, you should try to wash the bedding to clear away any allergens. If your cat makes a habit of getting on your bed, you should consider getting them out of your bedroom entirely.
Before this happens though, try to give your cat their own bed for sleeping in so they won’t try to curl up next to you in your comfortable bed where they can potentially spread allergens.
Brush Your Cat Regularly
Brushing your cat will not only help them develop a good-looking coat but also help reduce the spread and accumulation of allergens in their coat. A good brushing reduces dander and helps minimize shedding.
It will be good if you can develop a love of brushing your cat’s coat because this habit is relaxing and helps you bond with your cat. If your cat has enjoyed your brushing, they will even remind you to brush them and beg to be brushed.
Brushing is especially essential for Birmans. Are Birman cats hypoallergenic despite their long flowing coats? You still have to brush them.
For aging cats and cats with weight problems and muscular or skeletal issues, brushing becomes even more crucial. Brush in areas, especially near the back legs and tail.
These types of cats will have a more challenging time with self-grooming, and they need your help. You ill also be taking care of your health because fewer allergens will be released in your living space.
Give Your Cat Fish Oil
Fish oil supplement is good for the health and helps keep cats have a better coat quality and skin.
Not all cats will like the taste of fish oil, though even if you get the tasty salmon flavor sold in pet stores. If your cat doesn’t like fish oil, it is better not to force them unless there is a real need for it.
Getting your cat to ingest fish oil is highly recommended, though, because a good skin means reduced dander and shedding. This results in fewer allergens in the air and less shedding of fur on your furniture.
Fish oil especially helps with are Birman cats hypoallergenic, and can help them develop better coats.
Invest in a Good HEPA Air Filter
Your efforts may not be enough, so it is good to invest in an air filter system to effectively clear away the allergens and impurities in the air.
You should get an air filter in important places such as your bedroom and office or other rooms you spend a lot of time in. Doing this can help you have less exposure to allergens.
It is especially crucial to install an air filter system in your bedroom because this is your most private space where you relax. You need to breathe well to sleep well. Having a good sleep will minimize the symptoms of allergies.
Cultivating good habits with your cat plus the natural low allergens of Birman cats and other hypoallergenic breeds can help you enjoy the company of a cat without having fits of sneezes.
Are Birman Cats Hypoallergenic-comparison with other breeds
The answer to are Birman cats hypoallergenic is a yes. Birman cats are high on the hypoallergenic scale, but how do they compare with other cats?
If you decide to get a second cat aside from your Birman, there are other breeds that also rank high on being hypoallergenic.
Balinese
Balinese have the same coloring markings as the Siamese and are often referred to as the “longhaired Siamese.”
The Balinese may look less of a candidate for a hypoallergenic cat breed, but it is one of the few breeds that produce less of the proteins associated with allergens.
When it comes to their personality, Balinese cats are smart, sweet, and a joy to be around.
Balinese have the same ability to communicate orally as their Siamese cousins. Balinese cats will be sensitive to your moods and will be there to cheer you up.
Oriental Shorthair
This breed is considered to be non-allergen as well, but like any other cat, they will benefit from regular grooming and brushing to keep dander to a minimum.
Oriental shorthairs have a distinct personality. They love to entertain and are full of enthusiasm and love being the focus of everyone’s attention.
You will find that they are mercurial, and you will enjoy them if you love a cat with a unique personality. They love being with you and are curious about you.
Javanese
The Javanese coat doesn’t mat easily, and they feature a medium-long single coat. They don’t have an undercoat, so they have less fur, which means fewer allergies.
Javanese are devoted cats, are highly intelligent, and are known for their good communication skills. They love food, but they burn it off in high energy play activities.
They are highly trainable cats, and they are perfect if you like a cat that will often follow you around.
Devon Rex
The Devon rex has short and less fur. They may also need fewer baths. Because of their overall features, they are a good choice for allergic pet owners as they produce fewer allergens.
Devons have unusual physical characteristics that make them beloved to many. They look like aliens and ethereal out of this world creatures.
They love lots of cuddles and affection, which you can freely return back because they have minimal hair you have to worry about.
Final Thoughts
When you welcome a pet cat into your life, you may inadvertently also be exposing yourself to health risks that, although may not be fatal, may cause you discomfort.
Birman cats have proven to be high on the hypoallergenic scale, and the answer is a yes to are Birman cats hypoallergenic.
A few hygienic practices and maintenance routines can help make your cat fresh and clean and with minimal allergens.
Being with a Birman means you can have both worlds of having a cat with a beautiful luxurious coat and a hypoallergenic cat.
