10 Cat Breeds That Don’t Shed: Your Guide to a Cleaner Home

10 Cat Breeds That Don’t Shed (Much) – The Best Low-Shedding Cats for Your Home

Cats bring joy, companionship, and a touch of charm to any home, but their shedding can be a hassle. If you love cats but dread finding fur on your furniture or struggle with allergies, low-shedding cat breeds might be the perfect solution. While no cat is completely non-shedding, some breeds shed so little that they’re ideal for keeping your home cleaner and potentially reducing allergy symptoms.

In this guide, we’ll explore 10 cat breeds that don’t shed much, diving into their unique traits, care needs, and why they’re great for allergy sufferers or those who prefer a tidy space. Written in simple, easy-to-read language, this article will help you find the perfect low-shedding feline friend to match your lifestyle.

Understanding Cat Shedding and Allergies

Before we dive into the breeds, let’s clarify what “low-shedding” means. All cats produce a protein called Fel d 1, found in their saliva, dander, and urine, which is the main cause of cat allergies. Shedding spreads dander, so low-shedding breeds may reduce allergen exposure, but they’re not fully hypoallergenic, as noted by Chewy. These breeds either have hairless or short, dense coats that release less fur, making them easier to manage for cleanliness and allergies. Regular grooming and a clean environment can further minimize issues.

10 Cat Breeds That Don’t Shed

1. Sphynx

Why They Don’t Shed: The Sphynx is a hairless breed with a fine layer of downy fuzz, meaning they don’t shed in the traditional sense.
Personality: Sphynx cats are playful, social, and love attention. They’re often described as “dog-like” for their loyalty and tendency to follow owners around. They enjoy cuddling and are great with kids and other pets.
Care Needs: Despite being hairless, Sphynx cats need weekly baths to remove excess skin oils, which can leave greasy marks on furniture if not managed, according to PetMD. They’re sensitive to cold and sunburn, so keep them indoors and provide warm bedding or sweaters. Regular ear cleaning and nail trims are also essential.
Health: They may develop skin issues or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (a heart condition). Regular vet visits are crucial.
Lifespan: 8–12 years with proper care.
Why Choose Them?: Perfect for those who want a no-fur pet with a lively, affectionate personality, but be ready for regular grooming.

2. Devon Rex

Why They Don’t Shed: The Devon Rex has a short, curly coat that sheds minimally, feeling soft like suede.
Personality: These cats are energetic, mischievous, and highly social. They love interactive play and form strong bonds with owners, often following them like shadows, as noted by The Spruce Pets.
Care Needs: Weekly brushing keeps their coat healthy, and occasional baths help manage skin oils. Provide cat trees and toys for their high energy. Regular ear cleaning is needed due to wax buildup.
Health: Prone to patellar luxation (kneecap issues) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Regular vet check-ups are recommended.
Lifespan: 12–15 years.
Why Choose Them?: Ideal for active households that enjoy a playful, low-shedding cat with minimal grooming needs.

3. Cornish Rex

Why They Don’t Shed: The Cornish Rex has a wavy, curly coat with only a downy undercoat, leading to minimal shedding.
Personality: Known as the “greyhound of cats” for their sleek build, Cornish Rex cats are playful, affectionate, and love being involved in family activities, per PetMD.
Care Needs: Brush gently with a soft cloth to avoid damaging their delicate coat. They may need occasional baths to manage oil buildup. Provide toys and climbing spaces for their active nature.
Health: Susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and skin issues. Regular vet visits are important.
Lifespan: 12–15 years.
Why Choose Them?: Great for those who want a low-shedding, energetic cat that’s easy to groom and loves interaction.

4. Peterbald

Why They Don’t Shed: Peterbalds range from hairless to having a short, velvety coat, resulting in little to no shedding.
Personality: These cats are friendly, outgoing, and love attention. They’re playful and get along well with kids and other pets, as noted by The Spruce Pets.
Care Needs: Hairless Peterbalds need weekly baths to remove skin oils, while coated ones need light brushing. Protect them from cold and sun exposure. Regular ear and nail care is essential.
Health: May develop skin sensitivities or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Regular vet check-ups are advised.
Lifespan: 12–15 years.
Why Choose Them?: Perfect for those seeking a low-shedding, social cat, but be prepared for regular skin care.

5. Siamese

Why They Don’t Shed: The Siamese has a short, fine coat that sheds very little, making grooming simple.
Personality: Siamese cats are vocal, social, and affectionate, often “talking” to their owners with unique meows. They form strong bonds and love interaction, per PetMD.
Care Needs: Weekly brushing keeps their coat sleek. They need regular nail trims and dental care due to a tendency for dental issues. Provide toys and cat trees for their active nature.
Health: Prone to progressive retinal atrophy (vision loss) and asthma. Regular vet visits are key.
Lifespan: 15–20 years.
Why Choose Them?: Ideal for those who want a talkative, low-shedding cat with a long lifespan and minimal grooming needs.

6. Bengal

Why They Don’t Shed: Bengals have a short, dense coat that sheds minimally, with a silky texture that’s easy to maintain.
Personality: These cats are energetic, playful, and intelligent, often acting like “mini leopards.” They love water and interactive play, as noted by The Spruce Pets.
Care Needs: Weekly brushing reduces shedding. Provide cat trees, toys, and even water features for their high energy. Regular nail and dental care are needed.
Health: Susceptible to progressive retinal atrophy and feline infectious peritonitis. Regular vet check-ups are essential.
Lifespan: 10–15 years.
Why Choose Them?: Great for active households that want a low-shedding, exotic-looking cat with a playful personality.

7. Russian Blue

Why They Don’t Shed: The Russian Blue has a short, dense coat that sheds very little, with a silvery-blue sheen.
Personality: These cats are intelligent, quiet, and affectionate, often shy with strangers but loyal to their owners, per The Spruce Pets.
Care Needs: Weekly brushing keeps their coat shiny. They need toys and climbing spaces for mental stimulation. Regular nail and dental care are important.
Health: Prone to polycystic kidney disease and obesity. Regular vet visits help monitor their health.
Lifespan: 15–20 years.
Why Choose Them?: Perfect for those seeking a low-shedding, calm cat with a long lifespan and minimal grooming needs.

8. British Shorthair

Why They Don’t Shed: The British Shorthair has a short, dense coat that sheds minimally, especially with regular brushing.
Personality: These cats are calm, easygoing, and affectionate, enjoying quiet time but not overly demanding, as noted by PetMD.
Care Needs: Weekly brushing prevents mats and reduces shedding. Provide toys for occasional play, as they’re not highly active. Regular nail and dental care are needed.
Health: May develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or obesity. Regular vet check-ups are crucial.
Lifespan: 12–20 years.
Why Choose Them?: Ideal for those who want a low-shedding, relaxed cat that’s easy to care for.

9. Bombay

Why They Don’t Shed: The Bombay has a short, sleek, black coat that sheds very little, resembling a mini panther.
Personality: Bombays are affectionate, playful, and social, often following their owners around and enjoying lap time, per The Spruce Pets.
Care Needs: Weekly brushing keeps their coat glossy. They need toys and cat trees for their playful nature. Regular nail and dental care are essential.
Health: Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and respiratory issues. Regular vet visits are recommended.
Lifespan: 12–16 years.
Why Choose Them?: Great for those who want a low-shedding, affectionate cat with a striking appearance.

10. LaPerm

Why They Don’t Shed: The LaPerm has a curly coat, either short or long, that sheds minimally with regular grooming.
Personality: LaPerms are friendly, playful, and love attention. They’re social with people and other pets, often seeking out laps, as noted by The Spruce Pets.
Care Needs: Brush their coat 2–3 times a week to prevent mats. Provide toys and climbing spaces for their active nature. Regular nail and dental care are needed.
Health: Generally healthy but may develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Regular vet check-ups are advised.
Lifespan: 12–15 years.
Why Choose Them?: Perfect for those who want a low-shedding, curly-coated cat with a friendly, engaging personality.

Tips for Choosing a Low-Shedding Cat

Match Personality to Lifestyle: Active breeds like Bengals need more playtime, while British Shorthairs suit quieter homes.
Consider Grooming Needs: Hairless breeds like Sphynx and Peterbald require more skin care, while short-coated breeds need less maintenance.
Check for Allergies: Spend time with the breed to test for allergic reactions, as low-shedding doesn’t mean allergen-free.
Find Reputable Breeders: Look for breeders who screen for genetic health issues to ensure a healthy cat, as advised by Lakeland Animal Clinic.
Adoption Options: Check shelters or breed-specific rescues for low-shedding cats, though purebreds may be harder to find, per Reddit.

Caring for Low-Shedding Cats

Grooming: Even low-shedding breeds benefit from weekly brushing to remove loose hair and reduce dander. Hairless breeds need regular baths.
Diet: Feed high-quality, protein-rich food to support coat and skin health, as recommended by iRobot Blog.
Exercise: Provide toys, cat trees, and playtime to keep active breeds like Bengals and Cornish Rex engaged.
Vet Care: Regular check-ups catch health issues early, especially for breeds prone to heart or vision problems.
Environment: Keep hairless breeds warm and protected from sun exposure. Ensure all cats have a stimulating, safe space.

Table: 10 Low-Shedding Cat Breeds

Breed	Coat Type	Shedding Level	Personality	Lifespan	Grooming Needs
Sphynx	Hairless (downy fuzz)	None	Playful, social, affectionate	8–12 years	Weekly baths
Devon Rex	Short, curly	Very low	Energetic, mischievous, social	12–15 years	Weekly brushing
Cornish Rex	Short, wavy	Very low	Playful, affectionate, active	12–15 years	Weekly brushing
Peterbald	Hairless or velvety	None to low	Friendly, outgoing, playful	12–15 years	Weekly baths
Siamese	Short, fine	Low	Vocal, social, affectionate	15–20 years	Weekly brushing
Bengal	Short, dense	Low	Energetic, playful, intelligent	10–15 years	Weekly brushing
Russian Blue	Short, dense	Low	Quiet, loyal, affectionate	15–20 years	Weekly brushing
British Shorthair	Short, dense	Low	Calm, easygoing, affectionate	12–20 years	Weekly brushing
Bombay	Short, sleek	Low	Affectionate, playful, social	12–16 years	Weekly brushing
LaPerm	Curly, short/long	Low	Friendly, playful, affectionate	12–15 years	2–3 times/week

Conclusion

Choosing a low-shedding cat breed can make pet ownership more enjoyable for those who want less fur cleanup or have mild allergies. From the hairless Sphynx to the curly-coated LaPerm, these 10 breeds offer a range of personalities and care needs to suit different homes. While they shed less, they still require proper care, including grooming, a balanced diet, and regular vet visits. By researching each breed and spending time with them, you can find the perfect low-shedding cat to bring joy to your life without the mess of excessive fur.