Allergy Info
Hypoallergenic?
A common misconception is that the word "hypoallergenic" means "no allergens". That is not the case. "Hypo" is a prefix for a word. From Google:
"Hypo-: Prefix meaning low, under, beneath, down, or below normal, as in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyposensitivity (low-sensitivity)"
Cats produce a protein called "Fel D1". The creation of this protein varies based on several factors. One of those factors is the breed of cat in question. Of the breeds that are listed on the "hypoallergenic" list, Siberian Forest Cats produce the lowest amount of Fel D1. That said, there are times when a Siberian can be born that produces a higher amount of the protein. This means that reactions to Siberians can vary from "no reaction at all" (like myself) to "typical" reactions.
Due to my own allergies, we do know for sure that our cats have very little Fel D1. As such, their own offspring should have very little as well. But this is not guaranteed as all cats are different and we have no way to guarantee it. As a result, with the purchase of a kitten, we give our parents with allergies a bottle of Purina Live Clear Dry Shampoo and recommend Purina Live Clear Allergen reducing cat food.
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