When a family decides to add a cat to their home, there are lots of decisions they face in their quest for the ideal feline. While many people place a high priority on a cat that loves affection or has a specific look, one of the most common traits many families seek in their future feline friend is a coat that is low to no-shedding. Though there is great debate as to whether or not there is any breed of cat or dog that can truly be deemed hypoallergenic, there are some cat breeds which shed far less than others, making them an excellent choice for families whose members suffer from dander-related allergies.

Here is our list of the top five low to no shedding cat breeds:

1. Abyssinian Cat

The Abyssinian cat is considered medium in build but possesses a lengthy body and finely developed muscle tone. A feline known for its low shedding properties, the Abyssianian’s coat is quite close to the skin and is characterized by fluffy points contained to the ears.

One of the defining characteristics of this cat breed is its unique coloring. Bands of color are found throughout the coat on each strand of hair with the spine appearing darker in hue. The coat color is softer and lighter under the neck and legs as well as on the belly.

Abyssinian cats require regular exercise to remain healthy and content. They get along well with both people and other animals but will play with toys if some are provided. An affectionate cat, the Abyssinian is the perfect addition to a home that is looking for a kitty that loves to be wherever its family is.

2. American Short Hair Cat

Another cat of medium size, the American Short Hair Cat is known for its immense power and strength. This cat has rich musculature and is quite substantive. The breed is defined by its broad and thickly muscled chest. Its jaws and legs are built for strength and stamina to help the cat fulfill its original role of keeping rats and other nuisance creatures away from the home of its family.

Though a cat with a short coat, there is a lot of it. During the winter months, its coat gains length and thickness. The texture of the coat is similar to wire as it is intended to provide a layer of protection against harsh winter elements.

The American Short Hair Cat thrives in the company of people. The breed is known for its laidback ways.

3. Devon Rex Cat Breed 

Though the Devon Rex Cat is also of medium build, its big head and deep chest make it appear larger than it is. In possession of a coat that sheds only minimally, the Devon Rex’s appearance is quite unique. Characterized by its triangular shaped head, the Devon Rex’s nose gives definition to its face along with its large eyes and ears. The earset is found lower on the head, giving the cat an elfin appearance.

Though a slightly longer coat, the Devon Rex has hair that is both soft and curly. It is not uncommon for the breed to have hair loss due to licking. This type of coat also breaks quite easily.

Like the Abyssianian cat, the Devon Rex has high activity requirements and prefers to be active.

4. LaPerm Cat

The LaPerm cat traces its origins to a farm in Oregon in 1982 when a litter of six kittens was whelped by a cat whose primary role was to prevent rodents and other creatures from invading her owners’ farm. Of the six kittens, one was extremely unique in that it was born without any hair and bore no resemblance to her brothers and sisters or her mother.

This unusual kitten had unique characteristics which included wide set ears and what appeared to be a tabby coat pattern established on its skin. Over a short period of time, the kitten’s coat began to grow in, revealing a thick layer of curly growth. A study revealed that these cats possessed what is known as the curly gene and breeding two cats together which both carried this gene resulted in this unusual type of coat. This discovery led to the birth of the LaPerm cat, a feline named for the look of its coat. 

Available in both short and long-haired varieties, the coat is typically soft and sheds very little. The coat differs on the tails depending on the length of the hair with the short haired version appearing more like a toilet brush and the long-haired showing a distinct part down the middle. The coat comes in many different colors and patterns.The breed enjoys the active lifestyle and is very energetic but is also known for being quite affectionate.

5. Bengal Cat

At first glance, the Bengal cat appears to be a wild animal. This cat breed is known for its large size though its muscling hides very light bone. The Bengal cat has a large head that is shaped like a triangle and rests on a thick neck.

Patterns are typically some version of tabby and depending on the colors it can contribute to the appearance of a feline that is feral in nature. The defining characteristics of this breed’s coat is the seeming random alignment of the spots which should never be displayed in neat rows. The coat is quite rough to the touch.

Bengal cats get a bad rap from many who believe they are wild at heart. However, Bengals are extremely sweet natured and affectionate. It is important to note that the Bengal is an athletic creature who needs regular activity to remain healthy and well.

Looking to add a low to no shedding cat to your home? Consider one of our top five breeds! You just might discover the perfect kitty for you.