Are Siberian Cats Hypoallergenic? The Science Behind the Claims
One of the most common questions we’re asked is whether Siberian cats are hypoallergenic. If you're someone who loves cats but reacts to them, you may have heard that Siberians are a better option for allergy sufferers. But is it true?
Let’s take a look at what the science says and what you should consider before bringing one home.
What Causes Cat Allergies?
Most people who are allergic to cats are reacting to a protein called Fel d1, which is found in cat saliva, dander and skin oils. When cats groom themselves, this protein spreads onto their fur and skin, and from there into the environment.
Fel d1 is sticky and lightweight, which means it can linger in the air and settle on clothes, furniture and carpets, triggering sneezing, itchy eyes, or even asthma in sensitive individuals.
Are Siberians Really Different?
Studies have shown that Siberian cats tend to produce lower levels of Fel d1 compared to other breeds. This may be why many allergy sufferers report fewer or milder symptoms around Siberians.
However, the amount of Fel d1 varies from cat to cat, even within the same breed. It’s not something you can see or feel, and unfortunately, there’s no way to guarantee a specific cat will be allergy-safe.
That said, the Siberian remains one of the top choices for people with cat allergies, and many families have successfully welcomed a kitten into their home after reacting to other breeds in the past.
What Makes the Siberian Different?
Siberians are a natural breed, meaning they weren’t created through heavy cross-breeding or selection for extreme features. Their immune systems, coat and overall physiology have developed over time, which may contribute to their unique balance of strength, health and lower allergen production.
Some breeders have also observed that neutering may help reduce Fel d1 levels, especially in males. Good hygiene, air filtration and regular grooming can also play a role in managing allergens at home.
How to Know If a Siberian Is Right for You
Because individual tolerance varies so much, we offer a T-shirt allergen test at Ammorina. You send us a clean shirt, and we expose it to one of our cats’ fur and saliva. When we return it to you, the person with allergies can wear it and see whether they react.
It’s not a perfect solution, but it often gives clearer answers than brief in-person visits or assumptions based on symptoms around other cats.
Final Thoughts
No cat is completely hypoallergenic, but Siberians are certainly among the most promising options for people with mild to moderate allergies. If you're drawn to their beauty, gentle nature and resilience and you’d like to explore whether one might suit your home, we’d be happy to talk it through with you.
You can see our available kittens here or Contact us to make an enquiry.