Are Devon Rex Cats Really Hypoallergenic? Let’s Break It Down
If you’re a cat lover with allergies, you’ve probably heard people talk about Devon Rex cats being hypoallergenic.
It’s a nice idea, right? A playful, affectionate cat that won’t leave you sneezing. But the truth is — it’s a bit more complicated than that.
What Does Hypoallergenic Even Mean?
Before we dive into Devon Rex specifics, let’s clear up one thing: Hypoallergenic doesn’t mean allergy-free.
It just means something is less likely to trigger allergies.
So when people say a cat is hypoallergenic, they’re saying it might produce fewer allergens than other cats. That’s important to keep in mind.
Why Devon Rex Cats Get the Hypoallergenic Label
Devon Rex cats do have a few special traits that make them seem more allergy-friendly than your average fluffy feline.
1. They Make Less Fel d 1
Fel d 1 is the protein that triggers most cat allergies. It’s in a cat’s saliva, skin, and even oil glands.
Devon Rex cats naturally produce less Fel d 1 than a lot of other breeds. Less protein = less allergen floating around.
2. They Shed Less
If you’ve ever been around a shedding cat, you know the struggle. Fur everywhere — and with it, dander and saliva.
Devon Rex cats have short, fine, curly fur. They don’t have the thick undercoat that sheds like crazy. Less fur flying around means fewer allergens on your couch, clothes, and bed.
3. Their Coat Traps Some Allergens
That thin, soft coat actually holds on to some of the allergens instead of releasing them into the air.
It’s not a perfect system, but it helps. Less airborne allergens could mean less sneezing and itchy eyes for you.
4. Less Dander Production
Since they don’t shed much, they don’t release as much dander into your home.
Dander is tiny bits of skin, and it’s a major allergen carrier. So less dander = less allergy exposure.
So, Are They Allergy-Proof? Not Quite
I wish I could say Devon Rex cats are a magic solution for allergy sufferers. But they’re not.
1. All Cats Make Fel d 1
Even if Devon Rex cats make less of the allergen, they still make some. If your allergies are severe, even a small amount might set you off.
2. Every Allergy Is Different
Some people with mild allergies do great with Devon Rex cats. Others can barely be in the same room, even with low-shedding breeds.
Allergies are personal. What works for someone else might not work for you.
3. Saliva Still Matters
Devon Rex cats groom themselves a lot. That means their fur gets covered in saliva, which contains — you guessed it — Fel d 1.
Even if they shed less, you’re still getting exposed when you pet them, cuddle them, or let them sleep on your pillow.
4. Skin Conditions Can Make It Worse
Devon Rex cats can have sensitive skin and sometimes develop skin issues. When that happens, they might shed more or produce extra dander — and that’s bad news for allergies.
How to See If You’re Compatible
If you’re seriously thinking about getting a Devon Rex (or any cat) and you have allergies, there are a few things you can do first.
1. Spend Time with One
This is the most important step. Visit a breeder, shelter, or a friend who owns a Devon Rex and see how you react.
Give it a few hours. Sometimes allergic reactions are delayed.
2. Try Allergy Meds
Some allergy sufferers live happily with cats by taking antihistamines. If you’re okay with medication, it could help bridge the gap.
3. Keep Your Space Clean
If you go for it, you’ll want to vacuum often, wash bedding frequently, and maybe even get an air purifier. The less allergen buildup in your home, the better.
4. Groom the Cat Regularly
A gentle wipe-down with a damp cloth can cut down on allergens in their fur.
Just don’t overdo it — Devon Rex skin is sensitive.
How Devon Rex Cats Compare to Other “Hypoallergenic” Breeds
Devon Rex cats aren’t the only ones with a reputation for being allergy-friendly.
Here are a few others:
- Cornish Rex – Similar to Devon Rex but even less fur.
- Siberian – They have thick fur, but surprisingly low Fel d 1.
- Russian Blue – Another low Fel d 1 breed.
- Sphynx – No fur at all, but they still make Fel d 1.
Each of these breeds has its pros and cons, so if Devon Rex isn’t the right fit, there are other options.
Real Talk — My Experience
I’ve spent time around a few Devon Rex cats. They’re adorable little gremlins — playful, curious, and super cuddly.
I don’t have cat allergies, but a friend of mine does. She spent a weekend at my house when I was cat-sitting a Devon Rex.
For the most part, she was fine — minimal sneezing, no major issues. But the second the cat climbed on her pillow, her eyes got itchy and her nose started running.
That’s the thing — even a low-allergen cat is still a cat.
Tips for Living with a Devon Rex if You’re Allergic
If you decide to take the plunge, here are a few tricks to make life easier:
- Keep them out of your bedroom.
- Use HEPA filters in your vacuum and air purifier.
- Bathe or wipe them down weekly.
- Wash your hands after handling them.
- Consider allergy shots if your allergies are bad but you can’t live without a cat.
Final Verdict
So, are Devon Rex cats hypoallergenic?
Kind of.
They’re one of the better options for allergy sufferers, but they’re not a guarantee. If your allergies are mild, you might do fine with a Devon Rex. If they’re severe, no cat is going to be 100% safe.
The only way to know for sure is to spend time with one and see how your body reacts. If it works out, you’ll get a sweet, quirky little companion who’s worth a bit of sneezing.
