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Cat Breeds That Won't Shed (Much) Hair
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Cat Breeds That Won't Shed (Much) Hair

Critter Culture Staff

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Fun fact: people with cat allergies are generally symptomatic of saliva on the hair, not the hair itself, so no cat is truly 100% hypoallergenic. Low-shedding cats, however, tend to carry the lowest risk of aggravating allergies. They can also be the ideal companion for owners with asthma or those who have trouble cleaning up mounds of cat hair. Cats that don't shed are a diverse group. Whether someone prefers their cat breeds energetic or mellow, hairless or fluffy, there's a low-shedding kitty that will match them perfectly.

1

Turkish Angora

White Turkish Angora cat Anna Volgina / Getty Images

Turkish Angora is delightfully fluffy and soft, with a single long coat and no undercoat, making grooming easy. Brushing them once or twice a week with a fine-toothed comb is enough to keep shedding down to a minimum. They're sweet, quiet cats who would thrive in a playful home with well-established routines.

2

Singapura

Singapura cat

A particularly adorable breed of short hair cat, Singapuras are known for their short stature and big eyes. They are extremely active cats who require a lot of attention and play. Grooming is a breeze as their short coat barely sheds and only requires a weekly brush. Singapuras could be a perfect fit for a busy family as they tend to get along well with children and other pets.

3

Rex

Devon Rex cat on a hammock insonnia / Getty Images

Cat breeds with curly hair tend to shed less. The Devon Rex and Cornish Rex are both short hairs with low-shedding wavy coats. While there are some differences in physical traits between the breeds, both are energetic and mischievous. These cats keep their owners on their toes, particularly when it comes to sneaking snacks off of human plates. They're eager to please, which makes them relatively trainable as cats go.

4

Bengal

Bengal cat Seregraff / Getty Images

Bengal cats are as close as most people can hope to having a leopard for a pet. They have a striking spotted coat made of fine, short hairs that shed so little owners may not notice it at all. Closely related to the wild Asian Leopard cat, Bengals are highly energetic, intelligent, and athletic cats. This is not an easy breed for beginners, but they thrive when given plenty of exercise and attention.

5

Sphynx

Sphynx cat CliqueImages / Getty Images

If someone is looking for a cat that truly does not shed, the Sphynx may be their best bet. A hairless breed (though some may have fine peach fuzz on their faces and limbs), Sphynx tend to be extroverts, often running to greet visitors at the door, and they love cuddling. They benefit from experienced cat owners who can handle a highly active and opinionated pet.

6

Exotic short hair

short-haired exotic cat

A cross between the American short hair and Persian cats, exotic short hairs inherited the distinct facial features of a Persian and the low-shedding qualities of their short hair ancestors. They're mellow and happy to stay home alone for long periods, but their coat requires daily brushing to keep it from matting. Quiet, low-energy homes are ideal for exotic short hairs.

7

LaPerm

LaPerm cat oxico / Getty Images

LaPerm cats are known for their distinctive curly coats. Their hair isn't just low-shedding; it's also resistant to matting, which minimizes the time owners need to spend grooming. Just a light combing, and the LaPerm is good to go. These cats are ideal for less experienced cat owners as they love cuddling and tend to be easy-going, playful, and affectionate.

8

Bombay

Bombay cat

Bombay cats resemble tiny black panthers, with short dark hair and a stocky build. They're not hypoallergenic, but they shed very little and are easy to groom and clean up after. Sometimes a Bombay will mellow as they age, but they still love attention and playtime. While most cats are creatures of habit, Bombays adapt relatively easily to change, making them a good match for spontaneous owners.

9

Birman

Birman cat Vadimborkin / Getty Images

A smaller, fluffier cousin of Siamese cats, the Birman cat has silky fur that sheds very little. They're a calm, affectionate breed with a soft meow, an ideal pet for owners who want a cuddly, low-energy cat to lounge around the house with them. Birman cats get along well with children and often have a colorpoint pattern to their fur.

10

Russian Blue

Russian Blue cat Liudmila Anufrieva / Getty Images

Russian blue cats can be a bit fussy about their routine and cleanliness, but they make up for it in charm and playfulness. Their distinctive blue-grey coat is short, and they produce less of the protein in their saliva and hair that causes allergic reactions in humans, making them a good potential pet for those with cat allergies. They're sweet-tempered, loyal, and love to climb.

11

Ocicat

Ocicat spotted cat on colored backgrounds photo by Volchanskiy / Getty Images

Sporting a striking spotted coat, the Ocicat resembles a wild feline but has a gentle and affectionate temperament. Their short, sleek fur is low-shedding and only requires occasional grooming to maintain its stunning appearance.

Ocicats are intelligent, social, and energetic, making them delightful companions for active households.

12

Javanese

javanese cat Yamtono_Sardi / Getty Images

The elegant Javanese cat boasts a medium-long coat that is silky to the touch and sheds minimally. These cats are highly affectionate and thrive on human interaction. With their playful and vocal nature, they enjoy being part of a loving family.

Javanese cats benefit from regular grooming to keep their fur in top condition.

13

Colorpoint shorthair

colorpoint cat Magdalena Kowalik / Getty Images

Similar in appearance to the Siamese, the colorpoint shorthair showcases a short coat with a unique colorpoint pattern. Their low-shedding fur only requires occasional brushing.

Known for their lively, inquisitive nature, these cats make excellent companions for those who appreciate a chatty and engaging pet.

14

Siamese

Siamese cat lying down at bed Drbouz / Getty Images

With their sleek, short coat and striking blue eyes, Siamese cats are truly enchanting. Their low-shedding fur makes them a popular choice for those seeking a low-maintenance feline companion.

Siamese cats are highly social, intelligent, and vocal, enjoying the company of their human families.

15

Snowshoe

Adult cat resting on the terrace floor Eva Diana Lopez / Getty Images

Another delightful Siamese mix, this time with the American shorthair, the snowshoe cat has a short coat that sheds minimally. These cats are known for their affectionate nature, blue eyes, and unique white paws.

Snowshoes are intelligent and sociable, making them perfect for families with children and other pets.

16

Peterbald

peterbald cat VittoriaChe / Getty Images

An elegant, hairless breed, the Peterbald is an ideal choice for those seeking a truly low-shedding cat. They have a warm and affectionate personality, with a penchant for climbing and exploring their surroundings.

Peterbalds require regular grooming, including baths and ear cleanings, to keep their skin healthy.

17

Balinese

Chocolate Balinese Cat aleishaknight / Getty Images

Closely related to the Siamese, Balinese cats have a medium-length, silky coat that is low-shedding and hypoallergenic. These cats are affectionate, sociable, and playful.

A weekly grooming session is typically sufficient to maintain their luxurious coat.

18

Tonkinese

Tonkinese cat CarolinaSmith / Getty Images

A charming mix of Siamese and Burmese, Tonkinese cats have short, plush coats that shed minimally. These cats are renowned for their affectionate and playful nature, making them a delightful addition to any household.

Their low-shedding coat only requires occasional grooming to stay looking its best.

19

Chartreux

chartreux cat olivierpieri / Getty Images

With their thick, dense blue-gray coat, Chartreux cats are an eye-catching breed. Their fur is low-shedding and only needs moderate grooming to keep it in good condition.

Chartreux cats are known for their calm, gentle demeanor and their devotion to their human families.

20

Toybob

cat with blue eyes Oksana Osypenko / Getty Images

The Toybob is a unique and tiny breed known for its affectionate and playful nature. Their coat is short and manageable, resulting in minimal shedding.

A perfect companion for those looking for a low-maintenance, pint-sized feline friend, the Toybob is a rare gem that adapts well to various living environments and enjoys spending quality time with their human family members.

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