Choosing the Right Cat for Allergy Sufferers: Your Ultimate Guide
February 5, 2024

Nestled in the scenic embrace of Spring City, TN, our cattery stands as a beacon of hope for allergy sufferers in Nashville, TN and surrounding areas yearning for the companionship of a feline friend. With the majestic mountains as our backdrop, we're not just about breeding cats; we're about creating bonds that thrive in harmony with your lifestyle and health needs. Today, we're diving deep into the heart of cat allergies, unraveling the mysteries of hypoallergenic breeds, and guiding you toward making an informed choice that brings joy, not sneezes, into your life.


Understanding the Whiskers and Whys of Cat Allergies

Before we leap into the world of hypoallergenic cats, let's tackle the basics. What's the deal with cat allergies? It turns out, the culprits are proteins like Fel d 1, lurking in cat dander, saliva, and even urine. These tiny, invisible-to-the-eye particles can send your immune system into overdrive, leading to those all-too-familiar allergy symptoms.


The Hypoallergenic Heroes of Our Cattery

Among the lush landscapes of Nashville, our cattery is home to some of the most enchanting hypoallergenic breeds. Let's meet the stars of the show


1. The Sphynx: A Bare Necessity

The Sphynx, with its captivating hairless appearance and warm, peach-like skin, is often the poster child for hypoallergenic cats. But it's not just their lack of a fur coat that makes them special; it's their reduced production of allergenic proteins. These affectionate "naked" wonders love to cuddle, making them the perfect warm blanket on a chilly Nashville night.


2. The Devon Rex: A Curly Companion

Don't let the soft, wavy locks of the Devon Rex fool you; they're as hypoallergenic as they come. Their coats are not only low-shed but also require minimal grooming, reducing the spread of allergens. Plus, their elfin faces and large, expressive eyes will charm their way into your heart, making every day a magical one.


3. The Lykoi: The Allergen-Friendly Werewolf

The Lykoi, with its unique roan coat and intriguing "werewolf" looks, stands out not just for its appearance but also for its hypoallergenic qualities. These cats shed less and produce fewer allergens, making them a fascinating choice for those looking to add a touch of the mystical to their lives.


Living in Harmony: Tips for Allergy-Free Coexistence

Embracing a hypoallergenic cat is a step in the right direction, but harmonious living doesn't stop there. Here are some pro tips to keep your sneezes at bay


Embrace the Bath: Regular baths can help reduce the allergens on your cat's skin. Just make sure it's a spa experience for both of you!


Keep It Clean: A clean home is your best defense. Air purifiers, frequent vacuuming, and keeping your feline friend's favorite spots clean can make a world of difference.


Zone Defense: Establish cat-free zones, like the bedroom, to give your immune system a break.


FAQs Unfurled

Can someone with severe allergies live with a hypoallergenic cat?

While hypoallergenic cats can be a better fit for allergy sufferers, individual reactions vary. Spending time with a breed before adopting can help gauge your compatibility.


Will a hypoallergenic cat completely eliminate my allergies?

While they significantly reduce allergens, it's not a total cure. But with the right management, your symptoms can be greatly minimized.


How often should I groom my hypoallergenic cat?

It varies by breed, but aiming for a bath every 4-6 weeks and weekly brushings should keep allergens in check.


Can I test my allergy response to different breeds?

Absolutely! Spending time with various breeds can be eye-opening. For a more scientific approach, consult with an allergist.


Are there any special considerations for hypoallergenic cats?

Beyond regular veterinary care, hypoallergenic cats may benefit from a diet that supports skin health and reduces shedding.


Can children with allergies safely interact with hypoallergenic cats?

Yes, but it's important to introduce them slowly and monitor for any allergic reactions.


How can I reduce cat allergens in my home?

In addition to selecting a hypoallergenic breed, use air purifiers, vacuum regularly, and establish pet-free zones to minimize allergens.


Do hypoallergenic cats require special food?

While there's no specific hypoallergenic diet for cats, high-quality, balanced nutrition can support overall health and reduce shedding.


A Purr-fect Match Awaits

Choosing the right cat for your allergy needs doesn't have to be a compromise between your health and the joy of cat ownership. With our guide and the unique breeds available at our Spring City, TN cattery, you're well on your way to finding a hypoallergenic companion that suits your lifestyle and brings endless joy and sneeze-free cuddles. So, why wait? Join our waitlist and let the journey to your purr-fect match begin today! Have questions?  Reach out to us!

October 10, 2025
At Royal Velvet , we want every kitten to start life with the best protection possible — which is why each of our Sphynx , Devon Rex , and Lykoi kittens goes home with 30 days of free Trupanion pet insurance. Bringing home a new kitten is exciting, but even the healthiest, most well-bred cats can experience accidents or sudden illnesses. With Trupanion, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that if something unexpected happens, you’re covered from day one. πŸ’• What Does Trupanion Cover? Trupanion provides coverage for: Accidents & Illnesses : From tummy troubles to injuries, Trupanion covers the cost of diagnosing and treating unexpected conditions. Hospitalization & Surgery : In case of emergencies or major health issues. Medications & Diagnostics : Covers prescription treatments, imaging (like x-rays and ultrasounds), and lab tests. Congenital & Hereditary Conditions : Especially important for breeds like the Sphynx and Devon Rex, which can be predisposed to certain genetic conditions such as HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy). Chronic Conditions : Lifelong issues like allergies or skin sensitivities can also be covered. What’s not covered: Pre-existing conditions or routine wellness care (like vaccines or parasite prevention). πŸ’² How Much Does It Cost After the Free 30 Days? Trupanion’s cost varies by breed, age, location, and deductible . You get to choose your deductible, which affects your monthly premium: Lower deductible = Higher monthly cost Higher deductible = Lower monthly cost On average, cat owners report plans ranging between $20–$40 per month , but it’s personalized to each pet. We recommend calling Trupanion directly or visiting their website to get an exact quote for your area and breed. πŸ† Why We Trust Trupanion We’ve partnered with Trupanion because they: Offer instant activation on your kitten’s pick-up day (no waiting period!) Pay 90% of eligible vet bills directly to your veterinarian Have a 24/7 customer service team who truly cares about your pet It’s one of the best ways to protect your kitten and your peace of mind — right from day one. πŸ’¬ Final Thoughts We’ve seen firsthand how valuable pet insurance can be — especially with unique breeds like Sphynx and Devon Rex cats, who deserve royal-level care. Activating your free 30-day Trupanion policy ensures your kitten is protected the moment they join your home. After that, you can choose to continue coverage for lifelong protection and peace of mind. πŸ’– Ready to activate? πŸ‘‰ Call 855-266-2156 or visit Trupanion’s website and use our partner code BR1RV80219 to enroll your Royal Velvet kitten today.
October 2, 2025
Bringing home a Sphynx , Devon Rex , or Lykoi cat is an exciting journey into the world of rare and exotic breeds. These unique cats require special care, and as responsible pet parents, it’s important to understand their needs. This care guide covers everything from skin care to nutrition, helping you give your royal companion the healthiest, happiest life possible. Why Exotic Breeds Require Special Care Sphynx, Devon Rex, and Lykoi cats are very different from typical domestic breeds. They often require veterinarians who are familiar with their unique traits, health considerations, and care routines. At Royal Velvet, we stress the importance of education and preparation before welcoming your exotic kitten home. Essential Facts & Care Tips 1. Coat & Skin Sphynx cats have little to no hair, while Devon Rex and Lykoi cats have fine or sparse coats. Hair thickness and texture can change depending on hormones, seasons, and environment. Their skin produces natural oils that aren’t absorbed by fur, which means they may need occasional baths. But please do not over bathe!! Washing more than once a month is too often and can cause the skin to overproduce the oils. Use Hypoallergenic PH balanced shampoo (never baby shampoo). Avoid sunscreens or lotions — they will lick these off. Instead, use UV sun shirts or lightweight clothing, but allow the skin to breathe. Pro Tip : Many owners say their Sphynx smell like warm potato chips when cozy! 2. Nose & Sinuses Unlike other cats, Sphynx lack nasal hairs, which makes them prone to sneezing. Mild sneezing is normal, but colored discharge, coughing, or wheezing require veterinary care . 3. Ears With no ear hair, Sphynx and some Devon Rex/Lykoi cats collect more oil in the ear canal. Clean weekly with Zymox Cleaner and cotton swabs (never deep inside). Watch for itching, redness, odor, or head shaking, which can indicate infection or mites. 4. Eyes Sphynx kittens open their eyes early (1–5 days old), and without eyelashes, they are prone to tearing. Clear tearing is normal, but colored discharge or squinting requires a vet check . 5. Whiskers Many exotic cats (especially Sphynx) lack whiskers. They may use their paws like hands to sense depth or dip their feet in water to gauge levels. 6. Teeth Sphynx kittens may have brown-stained baby teeth due to porous enamel that absorbs natural oils while nursing. This is harmless and disappears as adult teeth come in. 7. Nails & Grooming Declawing is not recommended — Sphynx and Devon Rex use their paws almost like hands. Trim nails weekly and clean nail beds with baby wipes to remove trapped oil. Bath only when visibly dirty, not on a fixed schedule. 8. Diet & Appetite Exotic cats often have big appetites and fast metabolisms. Keep high-quality food available at all times. Provide access to fresh water (not milk). We recommend: Purina ONE Kitten Dry Food Fancy Feast Wet Food NuVet Plus Supplements for immune and digestive support 9. Litter & Hygiene Best options: Okocat pine pellets or paper pellets. Avoid dusty clay litters — they may irritate sensitive noses and skin. Use metal or ceramic bowls instead of plastic to prevent chin acne. 10. Warmth & Comfort These breeds feel warmer to the touch but have the same core temperature (101–102.5°F) Provide soft blankets, heated beds, or safe clothing in colder months. 11. Parasite & Health Care Fleas are less attracted to hairless cats, but protection is still important. We recommend Revolution for broad parasite control (fleas, ticks, mites, roundworms, mosquitoes). Routine deworming and yearly vet visits are essential. 12. Vaccinations Give kittens time to adjust before additional vaccinations. Stress can trigger sneezing or watery eyes. We recommend spacing vaccines: FVRCP and rabies should not be given on the same day. 13. Heart Health – HCM Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a serious heart condition common in Sphynx, Devon Rex, and Lykoi cats. At Royal Velvet, all breeding cats undergo yearly scans with a veterinary cardiologist . Pet owners should continue annual screenings for peace of mind and proactive care. Final Thoughts Sphynx, Devon Rex, and Lykoi cats are extraordinary companions that deserve extraordinary care. With proper nutrition, hygiene, veterinary oversight, and lots of love, your kitten will thrive as the royal family member they were born to be. For more resources, explore our educational blogs: πŸ‘‰ Proper Kitten Introduction to Their New Home πŸ‘‰ The Ideal Diet for Your Exotic Kitten πŸ‘‰ Common Viruses in Kittens & How to Handle Them πŸ‘‰ Heartfelt Care: Understanding HCM in Cats At Royal Velvet , we are always here to answer questions and guide you through every step of life with your exotic companion. πŸΎπŸ‘‘