Hypoallergenic
Siberian cats have been the subject of research for their hypoallergenic properites for many years now. A protein, Fel-d1 is released in cats via their saliva, tears, and feces. Some studies show that as high as 95% of people who have moderate to severe allergic reactions to cats can live with a Siberian cat with little to no allergic reactions. That is the case with me!
What about the 5%?
The very best way to test a person’s reaction to Siberian cats is to visit a Siberian Cattery. Spend several hours there playing with the cats and kittens. Watch carefully for allergic signs. If you tend to have severe allergic reactions to cats, consult with your physician before visiting a cattery.
Some catteries claim they can test for the levels of Fel-d1 found in their kittens. The problem with this is that kittens carry a higher level of Fel-d1 until they are about 6 months old – at which time the Fel-d1 level drops. So testing kittens will not give you an accurate level.