Are Savannah Cats Hypoallergenic?

So, you’ve probably heard of Savannah Cats—those exotic-looking felines that seem straight out of the wild. With their sleek, spotted coats and tall, lean bodies, it’s no wonder they’re gaining popularity across the United States. But here’s the big question that’s on your mind: “Are Savannah Cats Hypoallergenic?”

It’s a legit concern, especially if you’re someone who loves cats but can’t stand the sneezes and itchy eyes that come with them. Let’s dive into what it means for a cat to be hypoallergenic and whether Savannah Cats fit that bill.

What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?

First off, let’s clear up what hypoallergenic actually means. It doesn’t mean “allergy-free.” Instead, hypoallergenic cats are those that produce fewer allergens than others. We’re talking about things like feline allergens found in a cat’s dander, saliva, and even urine.

Most people blame the fur, but the real culprits are cat dander and cat saliva proteins. When cats groom themselves, they spread saliva on their fur, which dries and turns into airborne particles. That’s when the sneezing starts.

So, when people ask if a cat is hypoallergenic, they’re really asking if that cat produces less of these irritating proteins.

Savannah Cats and Allergens

Now, let’s get to the meat of it. Savannah Cats are a hybrid breed—part domestic cat, part Serval Cat from Africa. This crossbreeding makes them a bit unique compared to your average house cat.

One thing to note is that Savannah Cats have a different coat texture compared to other breeds. Their fur is shorter and denser, which could potentially reduce the amount of cat dander they shed. However, this doesn’t automatically make them one of those low allergen cats you’re hoping for.

In fact, because of their hybrid nature, Savannah Cats might not be as hypoallergenic as you want them to be. The allergenic proteins in cats like Fel d 1 are still present, and the breed’s wild ancestry might mean more potent allergens.

But hey, it’s not all bad news. Some people with mild allergies find that they can tolerate Savannah Cats better than other breeds. This could be due to their grooming habits or the fact that their dander isn’t as abundant.

So are Savannahs hypoallergenic? This is a question that I get often. There are some breeders that claim that the breed is hypoallergenic. In terms of what the actual definition of hypoallergenic is I could agree that Savannahs are hypoallergenic. However, I believe that most people seeking the answer to this question interpret the definition as meaning that they will not have any allergic reaction to Savannah cats. This is not always the case, as some people are still highly affected by the Savannahs.

Are Savannah Cats Hypoallergenic? | What is it that people are allergic to?

Comparing Savannah Cats to Other Hypoallergenic Breeds

When you think about hypoallergenic cat breeds, you might picture Sphynx or Russian Blues. Compared to these breeds, Savannah Cats don’t quite measure up in the hypoallergenic department.

The thing is, no cat is completely hypoallergenic. Even those breeds that are touted as allergy-friendly pets can still trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. But, some breeds just produce less of the stuff that makes you miserable.

For example, cats like the Balinese have less Fel d 1 protein in their saliva, making them a bit easier to live with if you’re prone to cat allergy symptoms. On the other hand, because of their hybrid status, Savannah Cats might lean more towards their wild Serval Cat side, which doesn’t help much if you’re hoping to avoid allergens.

The Impact of Hybrid Ancestry on Allergen Production

Speaking of that hybrid ancestry, it’s worth digging a bit deeper. Savannah Cats are bred from the Serval Cat of Africa, which is known for its wild traits and behaviors. This mix with a domestic cat might seem like a cool idea, but when it comes to allergies, it adds a layer of complexity.

Hybrid cats like the Savannah may produce allergens in different ways or quantities compared to your average house cat. For instance, their skin might produce more oils, which can carry feline allergens around your home.

And let’s not forget, the International Cat Association (TICA) recognizes the Savannah Cat as an official breed, but that doesn’t mean they’re easier on your allergies. The bottom line? That wild bloodline could mean more, not fewer, allergy triggers.

Managing Allergies with a Savannah Cat

So, you’re set on getting a Savannah Cat, but you’re worried about the allergies. The good news? There are ways to minimize those pesky Savannah cat allergies and make life with your new feline friend a bit more comfortable.

Grooming Routines for Savannah Cats

First up, grooming. Regular grooming is a game changer when it comes to reducing feline allergens. Even though Savannah Cats have a shorter coat, brushing them frequently can help get rid of loose fur and cat dander before it spreads around your home.

Brush your Savannah Cat at least once a week. A high-quality brush can capture more dander and reduce shedding.
Consider bathing your Savannah Cat occasionally. While most cats aren’t fans of water, a quick rinse can help wash away allergenic proteins in cats. Just make sure to use a cat-friendly shampoo.
Don’t forget to clean the areas where your cat spends most of its time. Vacuuming and wiping down surfaces will help keep Savannah cat dander at bay.

Air Filtration and Cleaning Practices

Beyond grooming, keeping your home environment allergen-free is key. Air filtration can make a huge difference if you have cat allergies but still want to live with a Savannah Cat.

Invest in a good HEPA air purifier. These are designed to trap small particles like cat dander and other allergens, making the air you breathe cleaner.
Wash your hands and face after playing with your cat to avoid spreading allergens to your eyes and nose, which can trigger cat allergy symptoms.
Regularly clean your cat’s bedding and favorite spots. These areas tend to collect a lot of dander, so keeping them clean will reduce your exposure.

Consulting with an Allergist

Before you bring a Savannah Cat into your home, it’s wise to consult with an allergist. The Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America (AAFA) suggests getting tested to understand the severity of your allergies. An allergist can provide you with a plan to manage your symptoms, and in some cases, they might recommend allergy shots or medication.

Remember, everyone’s tolerance to allergens is different. Just because one person can live comfortably with a Savannah Cat doesn’t mean another person will have the same experience.

Alternatives to Savannah Cats for Allergy Sufferers

If, after all the prep, you realize that living with a Savannah Cat might still be too much for your allergies, don’t worry. There are plenty of other hypoallergenic cat breeds to consider.

Other Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds

Some breeds are known for being more allergy-friendly pets than others:

Siberian Cats: Known for producing less of the Fel d 1 protein, which is a major allergen.
Balinese Cats: Sometimes called the “long-haired Siamese,” these cats have lower levels of allergenic proteins.
Cornish Rex: With their short, wavy coats, these cats shed less fur and dander.

These breeds might not be as exotic-looking as the Savannah Cat, but they could be a better fit if you have severe allergies.

Non-Cat Pets for Allergy Sufferers

If you find that even the most hypoallergenic cat still triggers your allergies, it might be worth considering a non-cat pet. Dogs like Poodles and Portuguese Water Dogs are often recommended for people with allergies because they produce fewer allergens.

Or, if you’re open to something completely different, think about a pet that doesn’t have fur at all—like fish, reptiles, or even birds. These pets can still offer companionship without the worry of cat allergy symptoms.

Living with a Savannah Cat when you have allergies is all about finding the right balance between managing allergens and enjoying the company of your exotic pet. Regular grooming, air filtration, and smart cleaning practices can help reduce your exposure to Savannah cat dander. But it’s also crucial to understand your own body’s limits and consult with an allergist before making any decisions.

For those who find that their allergies are too severe, there are plenty of other options out there, from other hypoallergenic cat breeds to entirely different types of pets. The key is to weigh the pros and cons, understand what you can handle, and make the best choice for your health and happiness.

If you’ve got experience with Savannah Cats and allergies, or if you’re thinking about getting one, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment and share your story!

Varying Degrees of ‘Allergic’

In regard to a typical domestic cat, we know that there are varying degrees with which people are allergic. Some people may have a minor watery eye or sniffle after rubbing their face all over a cat while the next person will puff up like a cabbage patch doll minutes after walking into a home where a cat resides.

The same goes for the Savannahs, some people have very minor or no reaction to the Savannahs, while others experience the same reaction that they do to a typical domestic. My brother-in-law is a good example of this. He is very allergic to cats and when he visits my parents, who have two F3 Savannahs, he starts to develop runny eyes/nose, itching, and a scratchy throat within an hour. On the flip side, I have had people with cat allergies visit and intentionally rub a Savannah kitten all over their face in order to solicit a reaction and have not had one. Unfortunately, these scenarios make it very difficult for me to guide prospective buyers on the hypoallergenic qualities of the Savannah.

Does the Generation of the Savannah Effect its Hypoallergenic Properties?

I do believe that the dander/protein in the higher generation Savannahs is somehow different than that of a domestic cat. I can say that in my years of breeding few people react to the F1 and F2 Savannahs. Something to take into consideration if you have cat allergies and are looking to add a Savannah to your family.

Make a Breeder Visit Before Making an Investment

Years ago, there were very few Savannah breeders in existence, making it difficult for prospective owners to make a visit to interact with kittens in person. However, there are now many breeders in each state so the possibility of making a day trip to visit a breeder and see if there is an allergic reaction is the responsible thing to do.

How to Lessen Daily Allergy Reactions

There are plenty of people coexisting with pets that have allergies. Some things that have proven beneficial include pet hygiene and good housekeeping practices. Much of the allergy reaction is caused by the saliva that has dried on the cat’s coat from self-grooming. Wet wiping the cat daily to remove the dried saliva greatly reduces allergic reactions, as does brushing the cat to remove shedding hair that would otherwise be deposited around the home. Vacuuming furniture is the other game-changer. We regularly vacuum our carpets and sweep, but we vacuum our furniture much less often. Cats are known to camp out on the furniture so there is no question that there will be a build-up of danders left behind. One step further for those with more bothersome allergies is to keep bedroom doors closed to ensure the cat is not spreading danders onto bedding and pillows that will come into contact with the face.