How much do hypoallergenic cats usually cost?

Question by ♥Sandy is Love♥: How much do hypoallergenic cats usually cost?
Me and my mom are allergic to cats, but ever since we had to put my dog down I have wanted another pet. My mom never liked dogs, but the only problem she has had with cats is that she is allergic. So we got that idea and my dad just told me to find out how much hypoallergenic cats cost. So…. how much do they thanks for any help!

Best answer:

Answer by amoeba
It’s a common misconception that “hypoallergenic” means non-allergenic, when in fact what it means is “less allergenic.” The truth is that ALL cats produce the Fel d 1 protein that people with cat allergies react to – it is excreted through saliva and the sebaceous glands under the cat’s skin. Breeds that don’t shed much (like the Sphynx or the Cornish Rex) can be better for allergy sufferers because there isn’t saliva-laden fur floating around the house, but they are very expensive ($ 1000+) and they can and will cause allergic reactions if proper precautions aren’t taken.

If I were you, I would stop worrying about finding a “hypoallergenic” breed and instead invest in a HEPA filter, a vacuum and some daily allergy meds (it may take some trial and error to find the right combination), then go to the shelter and pick out a cat your family likes and that your mom can hold without being suffocated. There is a lot of variability between individuals’ Fel d 1 levels, and in any group of cats there will likely be some individuals your mom can tolerate better than others.

Whatever kind of cat you end up purchasing or adopting, your mom will need to get into the habit of washing her hands after handling it, and the cat will also need to be groomed regularly to reduce environmental build-up.

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