Are Russian Blue Cats Good For Allergies – Tips And Considerations

A vocal and communicative kitty, the Russian Blue cat, is very intelligent. This is a cat that is laid back and loves to cuddle. No wonder it’s one of the more popular cats in America. But, besides just having a beautiful cat, there is another reason people like and want one.

Are Russian Blue cats good for allergies? Yes, Russian Blue cats are a good pet for someone with allergies. This cat doesn’t shed a lot and is mostly hypoallergenic. Russian Blue cats produce less glycoprotein Fel d 1 than other cat breeds. This is a commonly known cat allergen.

Many people would love to share their space with a cat. Unfortunately, these cat fanciers have allergies. There is a way to have the kitty without the sneezing and swollen eyes. Read on to see if the Russian Blue is the allergy-free cat for you.

Why are Russian Blues Good for Allergies?

Purina has Russian Blues listed as the third-best cat when it comes to allergies. They come in behind number one Bengal and number two Cornish Rex. Considering all the breeds of cats in the world, that’s a big reason for an allergy sufferer to look into the Russian Blue.

There are several reasons the Russian Blue is good for allergies. They have:

1. Low shedding fur Fel d 1 protein
2. Less dander

1. Low shedding fur

Ever wonder why Russian Blues look bigger than they are? That’s because they have a double fur coat. Their fur is at a forty-five-degree angle to their body. Most cats have flat hair, but this angle makes the Russian Blue look bigger. They also have more hairs per square inch than any other breed. As a result, Russian Blues have lush, dense, and silky fur. And although it will shed a little in the fall and spring, it’s a lot less acute than other breeds.

2. Reduced Fel d 1 protein

 This is your cat allergy culprit. Produced in a cat’s sebaceous glands and saliva, this is the main reason that kitties cause allergic reactions. A cat’s skin can also produce it. Scientists don’t know why cats produce this protein. But it causes an allergic or asthmatic response in humans.

Russian Blue cats have a low level of Fel d 1 protein. This makes them less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

3. Less dander

Russian Blues have less dander than other cat breeds. The dander they do have isn’t enough to kick-start your allergies.

Allergens are Different in Males and Females

Male cats and female cats tend to be different in many ways. Some of these ways include:

• Temperament
• Size
• Aggressiveness
• Behavior

But despite these differences, most people aren’t that concerned with the sex of their fur baby. They love them regardless. But if you suffer from cat allergies, you should be concerned. Male cats are the biggest culprits when it comes to producing allergens. Females tend to be low in their production and, therefore, may be the better choice. But, don’t fear, if you’ve fallen in love with that male kitten, there is a way to reduce the allergens—neuter him. Neutering a male cat minimizes the number of allergens it will produce.

So, when choosing your Russian Blue to opt for the little female or make it a point to neuter (you should anyway for other reasons), the boy kitty. Despite being low on allergens, if you plan on breeding your male Russian Blue, you’ll need to take precautions when it comes to your allergies.

How to Make Sure You’re Not Allergic To Cats?

Despite the Russian Blue having a hypoallergenic coat, it’s not full-proof. Test the waters to make sure you’ll be comfortable with your new kitty.

The best way to do this is to expose yourself to Russian Blue kittens. Explain your concerns to the breeder. Ask if you can visit the litter. When visiting, don’t just walk in, take a look, and walk out. Stay with the litter and pet the kittens and mother. Play with them.

Expose yourself as much as possible. This, however, will be a full onslaught. If you think this might be too much, ask the breeder if you can spend time with one kitten. Pet her and play. You’ll not only test your allergies but enjoy meeting a new friend.

Don’t make a decision right away. Leave and see if you have any long-term reactions. You’ll probably be fine. So, go back and pick up your new Russian Blue baby.

Ways To Reduce Allergies With A Cat In The Home

Although unlikely, you might have a very slight reaction to your new Blue. There are several ways to deter any adverse effects. They include:

1. Vacuuming
2. Wash Bedding
3. Don’t Sleep with Them
4. Wash Your Hands
5. Air filters
6. Wiping down Your Blue
7. Bathing

1.Vacuum Regularly

The few cat allergens produced will be microscopic. You’ll need a heavy-duty vacuum with a HEPA filter to pick these particles up. Make it a point to vacuum weekly and include:

• Furniture
• Flooring (carpet or wood)
• Walls
• Any areas your cat frequents
• Countertops and hard to reach spots with a vacuum tube

2.Wash Bedding

Wash all bedding at least twice (more is better) a month. This will squash the allergen and dust mites that could hang out there. It’s also helpful to use an allergy-fighting detergent such as this one. Detergents like this help fight against pet dander and more without having to use high-temperature water to do so. 

3. Don’t Sleep With Your Cat

If you’re not having a problem, then cuddle with your Blue all night. But if you do have some itchy eyes, keep them out of your bed. (we threw hint number 2 in because we knew you’d ignore this one)

Arrange a nice bedding area on the floor near you or in the room so your cat can still get close; just not too close!

4.Wash Your Hands Often

Make it a point to wash your hands after you pet your cat. If there are any allergens on your hands, the soap and water will take them off. Do this before you’re tempted to rub your eyes. It’s very easy to become irritated by touching your eyes, nose, or mouth immediately after petting your cat. 

Also, consider washing your hands after you’ve touched any bedding or pet toys your cat may have been interacting with. Allergens can stick to pretty much any surface. It may be helpful to spray down any items before you touch them. 

It’s especially important to clean your hands after cleaning the litter box too. 

5. Air Filters

Just like with the vacuum, you’ll want a HEPA filter. These filters are great for picking up the few allergens you’ll have. 

6.Wiping Down Your Russian Blue

The majority of cats hate baths and most cats don’t really need to take baths.

And let’s face it, life and limb are at risk when you try to give one. If need be, wipe down your Blue with a wet cloth. This will remove any allergens. And although it may be mildly irritating to your kitty, it will at least be tolerable…for both of you.

7. Bathing

Here’s the risk to life and limb that we were just talking about. This is the last resort. And most likely will not be needed with a Russian Blue. But if you must, there is a method to the madness of cat bathing. Follow these steps:

• The bathtub is the easiest if you can kneel. You’ll have more leverage.
• Have your towels within reach and soap and a large cup in place. You don’t want to go fumbling around with a squirming Blue in your arms.
• Turn the water on lukewarm. Don’t have it full force it will startle your cat. Don’t plug the drain; the idea is to have a quiet stream of water running. This should be done before you bring in the kitty.
• Try and catch your Blue. They’re smart, so they know. Once you have them in the bathroom, close the door.
• Place your kitty in the tub. Don’t ever put the cat under the water; they will think you are drowning them.
• Using the large cup, bring the water to the cat. Don’t just dump it on their head. Pour it over small portions of their body until well wet.
• Soap up and rinse in the same manner.
• Be quick about this. Just a fast wash and rinse will do.
• Place your Blue in a towel and dry.
• Release and watch them run.

As mentioned, because the Russian Blue is mostly hypoallergenic, this will most likely not be necessary.

How Much Does a Russian Blue Cost?

Once you’ve decided the Russian Blue is for you, you’ll need to find a reputable breeder. Keep in mind there are fake ones. For instance, you won’t find this valuable cat in a shelter. If you see one that looks like it, it’s probably not. If it’s not a purebred Russian Blue, you won’t have the hypoallergenic fur.

When looking for a Russian Blue, you’ll want to find the right breeder. The Cats Fancier Association is a good starting point. There are also Russian Blue forums that may have ideas Once you’ve found a breeder, be prepared to pay between $400 and $600.

The Russian Blue, with its bright green eyes and luxurious blue coat, is a prize. She’s also a smart and loving companion. If you’ve always wanted a cat but have allergies, the Blue may be for you. Explore the idea and be prepared to fall in love with this breed.