Are Exotic Shorthair Cats Hypoallergenic ? Tips for people with allergies

If you have allergies or a family member that is sensitive nasally and you thinking about getting an Exotic Shorthair cat, it’s good to check if they are hypoallergenic or not, in order to get an idea of how they shed or give off dander.

The Exotic Shorthair cat breed are not considered hypoallergenic. Their dense coat while short can create a lot of dander, making Exotic Shorthair allergies a possibility. They also shed seasonally which could cause havoc for those with sensitive sinuses.

The fact that these Exotics have shorthair sometimes misleads people into thinking they are hypoallergenic, however they do shed and give off alot of dander which can cause an allergic reaction to those who are sensitive when inhaled.

The main cause of cat allergies are caused by a specific Fel d 1 protein that is produced in the cat’s saliva, urine and in its sebaceous glands. This primary Allergen is present on the small flakes of dead skin, called dander, that falls from the cat’s body.

If you are concerned about allergies, then speak with your local veterinarian about a good cleaning and grooming routine that can help to reduce the allergens in your home. Even though these cats are not hypoallergenic, dont let that stop you from getting these beauts as they are one of the best low maintenance, loving cat breeds.

What Makes a Cat Hypoallergenic ?

There is no cat that is completely hypoallergenic however some cats are considered hypoallergenic if they prouduce much less of the Fel 1 protein. Other Cats that are considered hypoallergenic are shorthaired which shed much less and therefore less allergens could end up in the environment may also be referred as hypoallergenic.

The main cause of the allergen in cats are produced in there saliva which is the Fel 1 Protein. When cats groom themselves with there tongue saliva gets trapped on their coat and when they hair shed and is left around the home it agitates those who are allergic. There eyes tend to be itchy, red and watery as well as nasal congestion and sneezing.

Grooming for Exotic shorthair cats

Grooming your exotic shorthair cat is very important if you want to maintain an healthy coat while also helping them get rid of excess hair and dander that’s on the surface of their skin.

Grooming is also important in order to keep allergen levels down since regular grooming prevents build up of dander and hair. Grooming involves bathing and brushing which are the most important practices in cats that are not hypoallergenic.

Bathing Exotic Shorthair Cats

Bathing is very important in providing good care and in maintaining your cats healthy coat. It also removes any dirt, dust, dander and excess hair. When bathing exotic cats use the following guidelines to make to the process easy and stress free for your feline.

1. Always choose bath time wisely. You want to get your cat at their happiest hour in order to prevent any moody reactions.

2. Using lukewarm water gently pour over the cats body. When bathing choose a good stable area to prevent accidents.

3. Get a good cat-friendly shampoo that’s of quality to maintain the shine and to promote her healthy coat. Burt’s Bee for Cats Hypoallergenic Shampoo is a great option which can be found on Amazon. This shampoo is specially formulated for the allergenic cat to remove excess hair and dander. Its mild, natural and is suitable for sensitive cats and kittens. Check the latest price.

4. Gently message the shampoo into a lather while removing any dust or dirt. You want to do this precisely so that you can avoid the cats face and ears.

5. Rinse the cat thoroughly with warm water to make sure all the shampoo is removed. If the shampoo isnt washed out properly it can cause the cats skin to dry up and may cause irritation. If the cat already has a pre-existing skin condition try PetO’Cera Cat skin treatment for dry and irritated skin.

6. Since the Exotic cat is flat faced their eyes tend to tear up often leaving discharge. Using a cotton pad or a clean towel and water gently wipe the cats face removing any sort of dirt. Do not use any shampoo or anything that could cause discomfort.

7. Towel dry the cat or you use a blow dryer on low-medium heat.

8. If you have any oils or lubricants or conditioner to enhance the shine on your Exotics coat you may apply them. Check out the John Paul Pet Oatmeal Conditioning Spray for cats on Amazon. Thisproduct works well on dry fur as it replenishes the cats coat strengthening it whilst adding shine. Its also made of natural ingredients such as aloe and chamomile that revitalizes the hair.

Brushing Exotic Shorthair cats

Brushing your exotic cat twice a week will be perfect to remove any excess hair off your cats coat. Since the cat is shorthaired it doesnt require daily brushing but because their coat is plush and thick brushing twice a week can greatly help to sooth them while removing unwanted hair.

Brushing must be done, gently and in a systematic way. The following are tips that you can use to help when brushing your exotic shorthair cat.

1. First go with a wide-toothed comb and gently start from the top of the cats head and make your way to the tail. Go with the grain gently while using a bit of force to remove any unwanted hair. The Ruff ‘n Ruffus Self-Cleaning 3-in-1 set works really well. It comes with a steel comb, brush and nail clippers.

2. Comb the face while avoiding the cat’s eyes, nose and mouth. Use a soft bristle brush for the face since you don’t want to injure your furball.

3. Never pull on tangled hair as this can cause pain and discomfort for the feline. The best way to detangle hair is to gently comb from the underneath making your way to the top. Use swift strokes in a controlled way.

4. Once all hair is detangled and coat is knot free use a soft brush to gently glide through the cats coat.

5. Sometimes you may need to trim certain parts of the cats hair. Remember to use a grooming clippers that is safe for pet use.

Tips for People that are Allergic to Exotic Cats.

Many people who are allergic to Exotic cats still prefer to have them since their furr ball have become apart of their family due to the bond and affection that is shared. Below are a few tips and ways to minimize allergens in your home.

1. Baths are important

The proteins responsible for your allergic reaction collects on your cat’s skin and over time they build up. At times your cat will feel uncomfortable and will scratch and try to groom themselves. If this happens it could cause havoc for you the one suffering with this allergic reaction.

A simple bath done occasionally will greatly reduce cat dander which is the dead skin and will remove the lose hair that sits on your cats coat. This will help to prevent or lessen the severity of allergies for you.

2. Limit your cats range.

In order to make this relationship work you need to try and balance your allergies with it’s possible cause which is the dander and hair. Therefore Setup a few limits where your cat is not allowed. For example your room, on top of the couch and away from fabrics and materials that trap hair and dander like the curtains and stuff.

The whole idea is to achieve balance so that you and your feline can have space within the same home.

3. Get your home cleaned regularly

This is very important as the dust, hair and dander sits on furniture and settles well on the curtains and all objects around the home. When the AC is turned up these allergens could circulate causing a severe reaction in you.

Cleaning is absolutely crucial but it could affect you while doing so. Let anyone who isnt allergic to cats help you out, and sit this one out. You can also contact a good cleaning service to do the job for you. It’s good to clean your home regularly to prevent a buildup of such allergens in your home.

4. Get a Good vaccum

A good vacuum could be your saving grace to remove hair from the floor, couches and carpets before it builds up. This should be a daily practice especially if your cat sheds a lot. For exotic shorthair cats vacuuming once or twice a week should be fine as they don’t shed much hair. The BLACK+DECKER dusbuster Handheld cordless vacuum is perfect for weekly use. Its easy to use and targets fur from hard to reach places.

5. Get medication

If your heart is fixed on getting an Exotic Shorthair cat it’s best for you to consult with your medical practitioner to weigh your options. You can ask for advice on treatment options and come up with a good routine that involves medical treatment and lifestyle changes to make living easier

In some cases if your allergies are severe and the doctor advices against it than you should take that advice and act accordingly. Dont go against medical advice since it could impact your health negatively.

Related Questions

1. Do Exotic shorthair cats shed alot ? No, exotic shorthair cats dont shed alot and are low maintenance. They coat dont shed alot, therefore brushing once a week will be fine.

2. Are Exotic Shorthair cats good with dogs ? Yes, these cats are docile, timid and very affectionate. They do well with other pets and dogs.

3. Do exotic shorthair cats like to be held ? Absolutely, these cats love cuddling and are the most affectionate. They enjoy spending time with their owners and laying on their laps.

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