Compared to other cat breeds, the Abyssinian cat does not shed much. They have a short, dense coat, and if you brush them out about once a week, you should be able to keep their coat in good condition and their shedding in check.
However, it is important to note that even though the Abyssinian cat might not shed much, that doesn’t mean they’re hypoallergenic. If you suffer from cat allergies, they can, unfortunately, still trigger all the undesirable signs of pet allergy, such as itchy and runny eyes and nose, sneezing, and other symptoms.
The 3 Tips to Help Control Pet Allergies
Just because the Abyssinian cat doesn’t shed much doesn’t mean they’re hypoallergenic. In fact, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic cat. However, you can do a few things to help control pet allergies if you have them and want an Abyssinian cat as a pet.
It is important to note that cat allergies are caused by proteins (allergens) produced by all cats at different degrees. These allergens are mainly, but not only, found on cat skin and saliva. The allergens then accumulate on the fur and skin and are released to the environment as the cat sheds dander and hair.
1. Restrict Their Access to Certain Rooms
Always leave at least one room of the house (ideally your bedroom) free (or with minimal amounts) of allergens by restricting your cat’s access to it. The levels of allergens are higher in areas where your cat spends time.
2. Vacuum/Clean Often
No matter what you do, your cat will shed a little bit, which can trigger your allergy symptoms. But to keep hair and dander off your body where they can aggravate your allergies, you need to clean them up! Try to get someone else to do this job for you and, if that is not possible, wear a disposable mask and wash your hands thoroughly once you finish (and always after touching your cat). Dust often, keep up with laundry using high temperatures, and use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter. If you can clean up the hairs before you have a chance to breathe them in, it can keep you from developing an allergic reaction.
3. Bathe them Often
It may not be at all possible if your cat dislikes being bathed, and you don’t want to break the bond with your cat, but bathing your cat seems to reduce the concentration of allergens for a short period of time. Speak to your vet about the best technique and aim for a weekly or biweekly frequency.
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Along with the above tips, it is recommended to spay or neuter your cat since this can reduce allergen production, and avoid having multiple cats to decrease the allergen burden in your home. It is also recommended to use an air purifier with a HEPA filter in the rooms where your cat spends more time, as well as installing one in your household heating and cooling systems.
Other 3 Fun Facts About Abyssinian Cats
1. They Have Lots of Energy
If you want a low-energy cat, the Abyssinian cat is not the way to go. They’re known as the energizer bunnies of cats and have loads of energy that can be hard to burn through. They’re always looking for something to do, and because of this, it’s best to have time to spend with them and plenty of toys on hand to help keep them stimulated.
2. They Can Be Goofballs
With quirky personalities, you can expect an Abyssinian cat to go above and beyond at times to get your attention. They’re extremely curious and want to figure out everything they encounter, and when you pair this with their outgoing personalities, you can expect plenty of laughs when these cats are around.
3. They’re Very Smart
Cats are well-known for their intelligence, and the Abyssinian cat is really no exception. You can train them to perform all sorts of tricks, walk on a leash, or even run agility courses. They are reward-driven, though, so ensure you have plenty of treats on hand when training them.
Final Thoughts
While an Abyssinian cat doesn’t shed much, if you do suffer from cat allergies, they still might cause problems. There are a few things you can do to mitigate the risk, but we highly recommend reaching out to your doctor before bringing one home.
Featured Image Credit: Alla Lla, Shutterstock
The 3 Tips to Help Control Pet Allergies
