ALLERGIES
Cats live in 60 million homes in the United States, which equates to 30% of households. They have recently surpassed dogs as the #1 pet in the U.S., but sadly, many cat lovers are unable to keep cats due to allergies. The Siberian offers new hope for many allergy sufferers, although this is not the answer for everyone, many thousand of families could benefit from this awesome breed.
Contrary to popular belief, allergic reactions from cats are not the result of hair length. The true culprit is a glyco-protein known as Fel d 1 which is produced in the sebaceous glands of the skin, saliva, and urine. These glands are distributed on all areas of the cat's fur with increased numbers around the neck. Cats are notorious groomers. After a grooming session, the saliva dries on the cat's fur and mixes with dead skin cells (dander). The tiny particles become airborne, landing on carpeting, furniture, drapes, etc. Once they come in contact with humans, either epidermally or by inhalation, an allergic reaction is triggered. Symptoms come in many forms. Some people develop a red, itchy rash on their skin. Other have extreme difficulty breathing. The more common reactions include sneezing, watery bloodshot eyes, a scratchy throat, and/or an itchy runny nose.
What is it about Siberians that gives it a
hypo-allergenic tendency?
Theories abound; however, none of them have been substantiated within the medical or scientific communities. The most noted theory is that Siberians have no Fel d 1 protein; therefore, no allergic reaction. Another theory is that Siberians have a much lower Fel d 1 concentration than ordinary house cats. Lastly, the hypo-allergenic tendency may be due to the tight, thick undercoat and oily top coat keeping the skin well hydrated, thereby reducing dander production and distibution.
It is recommended that before you reserve
a Siberian kitten you obtain a fur sample.
