October 29, 2004 American company ALLERCA is working to produce the world's first hypoallergenic cats - the first cats that will not affect human allergies.The resulting hypoallergenic cats will improve the health and quality of life for millions of cat-allergy sufferers.The first breed of hypoallergenic cat produced will be the British Shorthair, known to be friendly, playful and affectionate. The company expects the birth of the first kittens in early 2007, with other popular breeds to follow soon after.
Cat allergen is a potent protein secreted by the cat's skin and salivary glands and the company claims the removal of the allergen will not harm the cats in any way.
While some breeds of cats have been promoted as having less allergen than others, scientists that have tested this hypothesis have shown that all cats, regardless of breed, produce allergen. Allerca will produce the first cats that will not affect human allergies.
Millions of people worldwide are allergic to cats. One third of these ignore medical advice and keep at least one cat in their home.
