Many people who suffer from allergies don't have a cat as the family pet because they fear fur shedding and dander will trigger an allergic reaction.

While pet dander is a common allergen, it is actually a protein, Fel d 1, in cat saliva that triggers most allergies, reports PetMD.

These meticulous groomers spread the protein all over their fur. Once it dries, the saliva becomes airborne and settles in your sinuses as you breathe.

Your body reacts to the allergen by sneezing or wheezing, and your eyes water and your nose runs. Certain individuals also develop hives or a rash after being scratched by a cat. Even if the cat is not present while you are at work or elsewhere, it can contribute to persistent allergy symptoms.

Pollen and dust in a cat's coat can also cause symptoms.

All cat breeds produce allergens, but some do it less than others. The length of a cat's fur, its gender and the amount of time a cat spends indoors is not associated with cat allergen levels, reports the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.

While there is no such thing as hypoallergenic cats, there are cat breeds that produce less of the saliva protein known to trigger an allergic reaction. These cat breeds are recommended as good options for allergy suffers:

Balinese (Less of the Fel d 1 protein)

Bengal

Burmese

Colorpoint Shorthair

Cornish Rex

Devon Rex

Javanese

Ocicat

Oriental Shorthair

Russian Blue

Siamese

Siberian (Less of the Fel d 1 protein)

Sphynx

No matter what type of cat you welcome to your family, you can lessen allergic reactions by following these steps:

  • Hand washing with soap and water after contact with your pet
  • Keeping your bedroom off limits to the feline
  • Using an air cleaner with a HEPA filter in your home
  • Using a central vacuum in your home
  • Giving your cat a bath at least once a week