The Dream of a Fur-Free Couch: 15 Cat Breeds That 'Don't Shed' (Or Shed Very Little!)

For many cat lovers, the vision of a feline friend comes with an unwelcome side effect: cat hair. Everywhere. On the couch, on your clothes, floating in sunbeams.

This leads to the popular search for cats that don't shed. While the idea of a truly non-shedding cat is largely a myth (all cats shed something, even if it's just skin cells or minimal fur), there are certainly low-shedding cat breeds that make living with your cat much tidier.

It is important to understand what low appetite means. Lots of people looking for cats that don't shed are also looking for low-allergy. It is important to differentiate: hypoallergenic is a low-allergy breed that typically produces less Fel d 1 protein (the main protein found in cat saliva, glandular skin secretions, and urine), not just less hair.

However, cats that shed less will generally take allergens around the home due to less fur being released with dander. In this article, we are going to take a look at 15 cat breeds that are known to shed little fur, with good reason if you are one who enjoys a cleaner home or has a mild sensitivity to fur in your environment.

Understanding Shedding: Why Some Cats Shed Less

Before diving into the breeds, let's briefly touch upon why some cats are considered minimal shedding cats.

1. Coat Type: The most obvious factor. Hairless breeds, or those with very short, fine, or single coats, naturally shed less visible fur.

2. Genetics: Some breeds are genetically prone to keep shedding and hold onto their fur longer or have less undercoat, which means less shedding.

3. Grooming: While this seems counterintuitive, regular grooming can actually lessen the more obvious shedding by getting rid of the loose fur before it ends up on your sofa or floor.

4. Health & Nutrition: A well-dieted healthy cat tends to have a healthier coat and thus less excessive shedding behaviour.  If you have questions about proper nutrition, check out how to choose the Right Cat Food for Your Feline Friend.

15 Low-Shedding Cat Breeds

Here are 15 breeds that people search for when looking for cats that shed the least:

1.    Sphynx

Possibly the most recognized of the "hairless" cats that don't shed fur. Unlike other pets, they do not shed fur, but they do require periodic bathing, because their skin oils accumulate on their skin and not in their fur. They are very unique animals, but they also tend to be very social, affectionate, and attention-seeking, which makes them very popular.

2.    Devon Rex

Devon Rex cats are hard to resist; they have pixie-like faces and large ears with coats that are soft, wavy, and sparse. High cuddle levels? Check. Appearance that is totally unique? Check. Devon Rex cats are low-shedding cat breeds due to the structure of their fur. They are intelligent and playful, often acting as loyal as dogs.

3.    Cornish Rex

Like the Devon Rex, but even finer and with a clear rippled or marcel-wave pattern, the Cornish Rex only has an undercoat, with no guard hairs, and feels incredibly soft, and it is one of the cats that sheds the least. They are active, inquisitive, and have a strong desire to be included in family things.

4.    Russian Blue

Elegant, the Russian Blue has a double coat that is so dense and plush that it stands out from the body. They shed the least, but keep in mind they do shed, especially seasonally, but they keep the hair within their coat, not flying around randomly.

5.    Siberian

A Siberian may be the best choice of cat if you have mild allergies to cats, since they may produce less Fel d 1 protein than other breeds. Siberian owners assert that they shed relatively less. Siberians are intelligent, adventurous, and affectionate. Not all cats shed a lot, and short-haired cats do not.

6.    Bengal

Bengals have a distinctive spotted or marbled, incredibly soft coat, reminiscent of a pelt. The coats of Bengals require little grooming, are short, and are usually extremely dense, making them a breed that is known for being an extremely low-shedding cat breed.

Bengals inherited, from their wild ancestors, a small amount of wild instincts. However, they are very active and intelligent cats that are playful with low maintenance grooming needs.

7.    Siamese

The standard Siamese has a short, fine, glossy coat that lies closely to the body. They shed a very minimal amount and require minimal grooming. Known for their low shedding abilities, Siamese are also known for their color points, sapphire blue eyes, and sociable temperaments.

8.     Burmese

Burmese cats have a short, satin-type coat with a sheen. They are another good choice if you want to reduce hair shedding.

9.    Oriental Shorthair

The Oriental Shorthair is closely related to the Siamese, having the same slim type body and fine, short coat, and is another cat breed classified as 'low shedding'.

Oriental Shorthairs have significantly more colours and patterns to select from than the Siamese do. The Oriental Shorthairs have also shown intelligence and curiosity, and they typically demand a good amount of human attention.

10. LaPerm

As a result of their name, LaPerms have a recognizable curly coat which can be described as tight ringlets or a loose wave.

Interestingly, the curls function well to trap loose hairs and thereby reduce the total amount of hair present in the environment. LaPerms are known to be loving and gentle cats who adore human companionship.

11. Selkirk Rex

Yet another breed with a curly coat, the Selkirk Rex has a plusher, denser coat than a LaPerm or even Rexes.

Like other curly breeds, their coat structure and composition mean that they are seldom considered cats that shed the least in regard to free-floating hair. They are known to have the most patient and tolerant personalities.

12. Peterbald

Peterbalds are a breed from Russia, where they can be hairless (like a Sphynx) or have a "flocked," "velour," or short "brush" coat. The hairless and flocked are the variations that are essentially without hair. Peterbalds are intelligent, affectionate, and graceful cats.

13. Donskoy (Don Sphynx)

The Donskoy is also often confused with the Sphynx. Yet still, the Donskoy is a hairless breed from Russia. Their hairless trait comes from a dominant gene, while Sphynx is the result of a recessive gene.

14. Colorpoint Shorthair

Essentially a Siamese in a wider variety of point colors (like red point, cream point, tortie point), the Colorpoint Shorthair shares the same low-shedding, short, fine coat. If you love the Siamese personality and want minimal shedding cats, but desire different color options, this is a great choice.

15. Balinese (and Javanese)

The Balinese features a medium-length, silky fur. The Balinese cat lacks a fluffy undercoat, leading to reduced matting and, surprisingly, less shedding compared to many long-haired breeds, positioning them as strong contenders for the least shedding among longhairs.

Living with Low-Shedding Cats: Tips for Success

Even if you choose one of these low-shedding cat breeds, a little effort goes a long way:

● Regular Grooming: Even cats that don't shed much benefit from brushing. It removes loose hair, distributes skin oils, and is a great bonding activity.

● Diet and Hydration: A premium diet contributes significantly to skin and coat health, potentially reducing shedding. Ensure constant access to fresh water. An appealing water source like the WoPet Cat Water Fountain can encourage drinking. You can manage their food portions consistently with an automatic feeder, such as the WoPet Automatic Pet Feeder.

● Clean Environment: Routine vacuuming and dusting will help mitigate shedding. Frequently wash the pet bedding.

● Air Purifier: For pet allergy sufferers, a fair purifier should help remove inhaled allergens and small hairs.

● Vet Visits: Good regular vet visits will help ensure your feline stays healthy. Cats can shed excessively due to a medical condition. When it is time for a vet visit, consider a comfortable and convenient carrier.

Choosing the Right Companion

Cats require a significant amount of attention. A potential owner needs to be aware of her level of activity, social tendencies, and if indeed spending time with her involves a lot of pet hair left over, especially when she changes her seasonal coat.

Having a plan on which specific breeds will work alongside one means there will be less regret or guessing during the process.

Although each breed comes with its advantages, like in the case of the fifteen listed as cats that shed the least, it is hard to erase the thought that they possess distinguishing traits of individual cats.

On the other side of things, everyone in need of cleaning these breeds has fewer chances of being covered by fur. With a little research and the right expectations, you can find a wonderful feline companion that allows you to keep your home (relatively) fur-free!