The Hypo-Allergenic Siberian Cat.
 
There is a lot to do about the hypo-allergenic qualities of the Siberian cat. In order for you to decide if a Siberian cat is right for you, let’s talk about the facts.
 
To clear up the number one myth about Siberian cats: there is NO guarantee you will not have an allergic reaction to a Siberian cat! Hypo-allergenic means less-allergenic, it does not mean non-allergenic. There is no such thing as a non-allergenic cat! There are many catteries and websites claiming these cats can be placed with anyone who is normally allergic to cats. This is simply not true.
 
Another very common myth is that people seem to think they are allergic to cat hair. Not true. Cats produce a protein called FEL-D1 in their saliva. By cleaning themselves it is transferred to their hair, and causes pet dander. You are not allergic to cat hair, your are allergic to the protein in the saliva that ends up on cat hair. The cat dander can not be filtered out of the air, and it will spread all throughout your house. The reason Siberian cats have hypo-allergenic qualities is because they produce less of the FEL D-1 protein in their saliva.
 
In the USA you can send in saliva samples to a laboratory to have it tested for allergen levels. Research has shown the allergen levels vary greatly within the same breed. Color points (Neva Masquerade) and silver Siberians seem to have the highest allergen levels (which is still much lower then any other breed), and brown tabbies seem to have the lowest allergen level. Of course there are exceptions to this but in general that is how it turns out.
 
What does all of this mean for you if you normally have cat allergies? It means that you need to do your homework before you purchase a cat. It means you need to educate yourself about what to expect from a breeder before you start your search. I hope the tips below will help you prepare.
 
· If a breeder tells you that all Siberians are hypo-allergenic, or if they guarantee you that you won’t have an allergic reaction, they are lying.

· Ask a breeder if their cats saliva has been tested for allergen levels, and ask for the results.

· Ask if the breeder has any experience placing cats/kittens with allergic people, and ask if you may contact them as a reference.

· Look on the website for testimonials! They will often tell you whether a breeder is interested in just making sales, or matching up kittens with the right home.

· A good breeder will ask you if you have any allergies, and will recommend an allergy test prior to purchase of a kitten.

· Request an allergy test. Any good breeder will accommodate that request. Go to a Siberian cattery and hug those babies! If a cattery is too far away for you, ask for a fur sample, and send in a T-shirt or pillowcase the cats can sleep on, that you can wear when it’s sent back to you. This allergy test is an indication (NOT a guarantee) you might be able to be owned by a Siberian cat, regardless of your allergies!