Having allergies makes keeping pets a difficult if not dangerous venture. However, there are many hypoallergenic pets you can keep. In this article, we will explain the best pets you can own if you suffer from pet allergies.
Best Pets You Can Own If You Have Allergies
If you suffer from pet allergies, these are pets that are safe to have:
Dogs
Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a “hypoallergenic dog.” However, certain dog breeds produce fewer allergens. These low-allergen dogs are:
● Bedlington Terrier
● Basenji
● Schnauzer
You can also learn about these low-allergen and low-shedding dogs:
● Chinese Crested
● Airedale Terrier
● Poodle
● Portuguese water dog
● Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
● Kerry Blue Terrier
● West Highland White Terrier
Cats
Dr. Sonal R. Patel said cats are considered to be more allergic than dogs. He also said that the allergen responsible for cat allergies is Fel d1, a protein commonly found in cat saliva. Patel said it is spread throughout the animal’s fur during grooming.
Similarly to dogs, lower-shedding cats spread fewer allergens around the home. If you have mild cat allergies, these cat breeds may be less problematic for you:
● Burmese
● Colorpoint Shorthair
● Devon Rex
● Cornish Rex
● Bengal
● Russian Blue
● Siamese
● Ocicat
● Javanese
Exotics and Fish
If you have allergies, you might choose to get an exotic pet like an amphibian, reptile, or fish. This is because these animals do not have fur or dander, making them essentially allergen-free.
However, Dr. Sara Ochoa said some individuals might be allergic to their reptile’s meal. For
instance, feeder insects like grasshoppers, crickets, and locusts can worsen allergy and asthma symptoms.
Birds
Birds are generally seen as a safe choice for individuals with allergies. Dr. Patel said even
individuals very sensitive to cats and dogs rarely have an issue with birds. For those who are very sensitive, Dr. Patel recommends the following bird species:
● Finches
● Parakeets
● Canaries
Small Animals That Are Less Likely To Set Off Your Allergies
Smaller companion animals like rats, ferrets, and hamsters might be perfect for certain homes. Dr. Patel said their small size means they produce fewer allergens in their environment. However, Dr. Ochoa said small animals with longer hair, such as guinea pigs and rabbits, should be avoided.
Conclusion
Before bringing a pet into your home, it is advisable to get an evaluation from a board-certified allergist. This will let you know what you are allergic to and how to safeguard against it.
