Are Calico Cats Hypoallergenic? Top 6 Real Fact

The term “hypoallergenic” refers to substances that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. In the context of pets, hypoallergenic breeds are often sought after by individuals with allergies.

Calico cats, known for their distinctive tri-colored coats, are a popular choice among cat enthusiasts.

This article explores whether calico cats can be considered hypoallergenic by examining the factors contributing to feline allergies and the unique characteristics of calico cats.

Are Calico Cat hypoallergenic? 

Allergies to cats are common and can significantly impact the quality of life for affected individuals.

The primary allergen associated with cats is Fel d 1, a protein found in cat saliva, skin, and sebaceous glands.

When cats groom themselves, Fel d 1 is deposited on their fur, which can then become airborne or transferred to surfaces, causing allergic reactions.

Calico cats are not a breed but a color pattern that can appear in various breeds.

This color pattern is characterized by patches of white, black, and orange fur.

Given that calico is a color designation rather than a specific breed, it is essential to understand whether calico cats have any breed-specific traits that might influence their allergenic potential.

Factors Contributing to Cat Allergies

Fel d 1 Protein

Fel d 1 is the primary allergen responsible for cat allergies. This protein is produced in the salivary and sebaceous glands and is spread to the cat’s fur during grooming.

The quantity of Fel d 1 produced can vary between individual cats, regardless of breed or coat color.

Shedding and Dander

Cat dander, consisting of tiny flakes of skin, is a common carrier of Fel d 1. Cats that shed more tend to release more dander into the environment, increasing the likelihood of allergic reactions.

Long-haired cats may trap more allergens in their fur, but they can also shed more dander.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Some cat breeds are known to produce lower levels of Fel d 1, making them more suitable for allergy sufferers.

Breeds such as the Siberian, Balinese, and Russian Blue are often cited as hypoallergenic due to their relatively low Fel d 1 production.

However, no cat breed is entirely hypoallergenic.

Calico Cats and Hypoallergenic Claims

Breed Diversity

Since calico cats are defined by their color pattern rather than breed, they can belong to various breeds.Moreover, each with different characteristics regarding allergen production and shedding.

For example, a calico Persian cat may have different allergenic properties than a calico Domestic Shorthair.

Individual Variation

Individual variation in Fel d 1 production is significant, even within the same breed or among cats with similar coat patterns.

Therefore, a calico cat’s hypoallergenic potential cannot be generalized without considering its specific breed and individual allergen production.

Coat Length and Grooming

The length and texture of a calico cat’s fur can influence the distribution and release of allergens.

Long-haired calico cats may require more grooming, potentially leading to more saliva and Fel d 1 being deposited on their fur.

Conversely, short-haired calico cats may shed less and require less grooming, potentially reducing allergen levels in the environment.

Conclusion

Calico cats, as a color pattern, do not inherently possess hypoallergenic qualities.

The hypoallergenic potential of a calico cat depends on its breed, individual Fel d 1 production, and grooming habits.

While some breeds known for producing lower levels of allergens can have calico individuals. Hence, the color pattern alone does not determine allergenic potential.

Individuals with cat allergies should spend time with a specific cat before adopting to assess their allergic response.

Consulting with allergists and considering hypoallergenic breeds that can have calico color patterns may help allergy sufferers find a suitable feline companion.

References

• Bernstein, J. A., & Lynde, C. W. (2010). Overview of allergens. In Encyclopedia of Environmental Health (pp. 39-46). Elsevier.
• Bonnet, B., Messaoudi, K., Jacomet, F., Michaud, E., & Darmoni, S. J. (2008). Determination of the main cat allergen (Fel d 1) in the home environment of allergic patients: Comparison of the vacuum and the wipe sampling methods. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 121(3), 674-675.
• Heinrich, J., Bedada, G. B., Zock, J. P., Chinn, S., Norbäck, D., Olivieri, M., … & Verlato, G. (2006). Cat allergen level: Its determinants and relationship to specific IgE to cat across European centers. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 118(3), 674-681.