The Allergy-Friendly Benefits of Owning a Bengal Cat
It’s widely known that Bengal cats have a unique coat that is short, fine, and has a soft feel, which may make them less allergenic than other cat breeds with longer or thicker coats. While hair and dander isn’t what people with cat allergies are allergic to, the Bengal’s pelted coat does holds the secret to it’s lower allergenics. But is there any science to back it up? The answer is yes!
There is some evidence that suggests that Bengal cats may be less allergenic than other cat breeds, but it is important to note that no cat breed is entirely hypoallergenic. Some people may be more allergic to certain breeds of cats, but there is no guarantee that a person will not have an allergic reaction to any particular breed.
A Reliable Information on Cat Health and Allergies from Professional Organizations
A review of the literature on cat allergies published in the journal “Veterinary Dermatology” found that some people with cat allergies may be more sensitive to certain breeds and that there is some evidence to suggest that Bengal cats may produce less Fel d 1 protein and be less allergenic than other breeds.
One study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Davis found that Bengals had a lower level of the Fel d 1 protein, which is a major contributor to cat allergies, in their saliva compared to other cat breeds.
A study conducted by the University of Berne in Switzerland found that Bengals had lower levels of Fel d 1 in their skin secretions compared to other breeds. It’s a bit more than anecdotal, yet you can’t argue with the many people with cat allergies who do well as Bengal cat owners.
These studies were small and more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between the Fel d 1 protein and cat allergies. However, these findings do suggest that Bengal cats may be less allergenic than other breeds. It is always a good idea for people with allergies to spend time with any potential pet before making a commitment, in order to ensure that they do not have an allergic reaction.
Comparing the Allergenicity of Male and Female Bengal Cats
There is some scientific evidence to suggest that the sex of a cat may impact its allergenicity, although it comes with a caveat.
University of California, Davis researchers conducted a study which found male cats produced higher levels of the Fel d 1 protein, which is a major contributor to cat allergies, in their saliva compared to female cats. Another study published in the journal “Veterinary Dermatology” found that male cats produced more Fel d 1 protein in their skin secretions compared to female cats. The male cat’s production of Fel d 1 is also impacted by castration. A whole male cat produces more Fel d 1 protein than a neutered male.
If you are researching this subject, consider resourcing the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) or the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI). These organizations can provide reliable, up-to-date information on a variety of topics related to cat health and allergies.
Bengal cat allergy faqs
Bengal cats are low in dander, making them great candidates for people who want a cat but are allergic to cats. While Bengals don't shed, it's still a good idea to keep your cat well groomed.
Dander and hair are important factors in cat allergenics as they are the transporter of the Fel d 1 protein which originates in your cat's mouth. A Bengal sheds less, and produces less dander. Thus there are less means to transport the Fel 1 d protein, into the nearby environment.
Bengals make good pets for people with cat allergies because they do not shed, and are low in dander. Dander is the primary transmitter of allergens.
Bengals are naturally low in dander, but if you do not feed your Bengal wet food, it's coat will suffer and dander will increase.
