| Bengals aren’t hairless, and they don’t necessarily produce less Fel D1 protein than other breeds, so what makes them hypoallergenic? The answer is in their coats. Bengal cats have uniquely fine pelts that require considerably less maintenance than other breeds. As a result, Bengals don’t groom themselves as often or for as long, so their fur contains less allergen-rich saliva. They also don’t shed much, or shed far less than other cats, so whatever dander is present in their fur doesn’t get spread around as much. (Mom.me – 10 Hypoallergenic Cats) |
Bengals have made the top 10 most hypoallergenic cat list for many reasons. Most people who are allergic to cats have either no allergic reaction or a more milder reaction to Bengal cats when compared to the majority of other breeds.
This is believed to be the case for three main reasons:
- Bengals are hybrids, therefor they are only partial domestic cat and partial Asian Leopard Cat. Their allergen-causing proteins may be different enough not to cause a reaction. This is only theory since it has not yet been tested.
- Bengals have only one short tight layer of hair known more as a pelt. Other domestic cats have 2 layers of hair consisting of an undercoat and an overcoat. One pelt equates to less grooming and thus less allergen-causing saliva to permeate their pelt.
- Bengals have zero to minimum shedding. Who wouldn’t want a house and wardrobe that was free of cat hair not to mention no hairball problems? So not only is there less saliva on a Bengal’s pelt, there’s also less of that pelt spreading around causing any allergy symptoms.
I personally have microfiber couches and I have yet to see any of my Bengal’s pelt on any of my furniture or clothing. Between my broom and my vacuum, I have also found evidence of human hair but never cat hair. I have had many people over my house who are generally very allergic to cats and had absolutely no reaction to my Bengals. Honestly, the best way to know if you will have any allergic reaction to Bengals is to visit a breeder’s house.
For more information about check out Bengals Illustrated article Bengal Cats–Are They Hypoallergenic?