By definition “hypo” in scientific terms mean “less than”. By this definition Siberians are hypoallergenic. Most allergies humans experience when in the presence of cats are due to a Glycoprotein know as FEL D1 found in cat dander. This protein is present in all cats; however, it is found at substantially lower levels in Siberian Cats
Are Male or Female Siberians more hypoallergenic?
In order to accurately answer this question, certain facts must be understood. FEL D1 is secreted by sebaceous glands in the skin of the cat. It is also found in the saliva, and feces of the cat. Males are typically larger than females thus having more skin and sebaceous glands. Males left intact, ( not neutered ) have been tested and shown to have higher levels during sexual stimulation. This is not a factor if the male is neutered.
How can I keep my house hypoallergenic with a Siberian?
The single most important thing you can do to reduce airborne FEL D1 is to bath your Siberian regularly with warm water. Shampoos are not needed since this allergen is very water soluble, and if done correctly, Siberians love the bath and attention. Change the litter regularly, avoid breathing the dust, and vacuum with a hepa-fitlered vacuum all areas in contact with this litter and your Siberian. Accumulations can occur in the favorite areas of the house your Siberian occupies, naps, plays, and stores toys. Wash with warm water and vacuum regularly.
Are Siberian Cats genetically a natural breed?
Siberian cats are the progeny of native domestic felines of Siberia, Russia and native wild forest cats of Siberia, Russia. The breeding of these two unrelated felines occurred naturally without human intervention over one thousand years ago and since have flourished throughout Russia and Eastern Europe . More recently, humans introduced the Siamese breed near the Neva River in St Petersburg, Russia. Crossing the Siberian cat with the Siamese cat (eugenics), produced new color patterns (colorpoint) in the progeny but diluted the natural genetics of the Siberian. Both the (Natural, Traditional, Pure) Siberian and the Siamese/Siberian colorpoint crosses are registrable: however, some breeders adhere to breeding only the Natural Siberian cat and do not dilute what Mother Nature has provided. These breeders are loyal to the preservation of this Natural Siberian Forest Cat. The Prominent European Cat Registry FIFe does not recognize these colorpoints as Siberians but instead a sub-breed Neva Masquerade.
