Yes, Caracal cats are considered hypoallergenic, although no cat is completely hypoallergenic. They do not shed as much as other cat breeds and are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. Although they are hypoallergenic cats, Caracals have only been domesticated recently and may not be a good choice as a house pet. One must be deeply educated about this wild cat before considering adopting it. If you want to know more about the Caracal cat, keep on reading.
What is a Caracal cat?
The Caracal is a medium-sized wild cat native to Africa, India, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Caracals have brown to red coats, with color varying among individuals. Females are typically lighter than males. Their undersides are white and, similar to African golden cats, are adorned with many small spots.
Their face has black markings on the whisker pads, around the eyes, above the eyes, and faintly down the center of the head and nose. The trademark features of caracals are their elongated and tufted ears.
Their legs are relatively long and the hind legs are disproportionately tall and well-muscled. The tail is short.
Eye color varies from golden to copper, green, or grey. Melanistic individuals have been reported, but are extremely rare. Younger caracals typically have shorter ear tufts and blue tinted eyes.
Females are smaller, weighing around 28 pounds, while males can be up to 44 pounds.
Caracal Cat Temperament
Caracal cat kittens born to specialized breeders and raised among humans are not aggressive and not dangerous, which is very important for living in a family. This breed is curious, agile, and enjoys playing with people. If you buy your cat a ball to play with, it will be immensely happy. Try to hide a toy from them; they will find it and immediately bring it to you.
Another great joy for this exquisite and graceful cat is communication with a master. Set aside time for it and you will find an affectionate and sociable friend in your pet.
Caracal cats get along with children and other pets very well.
Do Caracal make good pets?
No, Caracals are not good to keep as pets for many reasons. Though a caracal is a small cat compared to a lion or tiger, it is still a wild animal, which means it is dangerous to keep around humans. Caracals need to hunt prey, eat meat, wander around, and climb trees. In most cases, this means that Caracals are not happy to live the life of a housecat. Plus, if a family has a dog, a domesticated cat, or any other animal in the household, that pet would be at risk of being attacked by the Caracal. Caracals are very protective of their territory.
Caring for a Caracal Cat
When caring for a Caracal, there are several things to consider, such as their food, exercise, and health.
Caracals are carnivores that hunt mostly small animals, so basically they should be fed mostly raw meat. They can also be fed quality dry cat food.
A Caracal cat should be fed one to two times a day at the same time so as to create a routine. The amount of food depends on the season and the size of the animal.
An adult Caracal should consume approximately an average of 4% of its body weight. The Caracal may eat more during a growth period.
When it comes to seasons, the Caracal pets may eat less during the summer when it is hot and more during the winter when it is cold. Leftover food should be collected and put away.
Are Caracal cats hypoallergenic?
Yes, Caracal cats are hypoallergenic. They do not shed as much as most cat breeds, meaning they spread dander into the environment minimally. They do not trigger allergic reactions as much as other cats, but due to their wild nature, they may be a handful for first time cat owners and are more well-suited for people with the space and experience in dealing with the breed.
How much do Caracal cats shed?
Caracal cats are moderate shedders. They grow out their coat for the winter and shed it for a shorter coat during the warmer months.
Tips for Managing Cat Allergies
Grooming
Caracals are moderate shedders and are completely capable of grooming themselves. Bathing is not necessary unless they roll in something dirty or smelly. You can try wiping down their bodies with a damp towel if they do not like baths.
Diet
Caracals are carnivores, so they will need to be put on a breed appropriate diet in order for them to get their much needed nutrients daily. Give them food rich in Omega 3 because it will help keep their skin and fur healthy. Always have fresh, clean water available for them so they are well-hydrated.
Cleaning
If you let your Caracal into the house, vacuum your carpets, floors, and fabric furniture, concentrating on your cat’s favorite spots. Wipe down smooth surfaces such as countertops and tables with a microfiber cloth to remove dander that has settled from the air. If your budget allows it, invest in an air purifier to filter out allergens from the air circulating in your home.
Hand-washing
Do not forget to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any dander and fur that gets on them after touching your cat. This is to help avoid transferring allergens from your unwashed hands to your face.
Medication
If none of the above tips work, you can always consult your physician about trying an anti-allergy medication.
Conclusion
Yes, Caracal cats are hypoallergenic. They are moderate shedders but they do not trigger allergic reactions as much as most cats. Despite this, one should not consider a Caracal for a pet if you have no training in handling the breed.
Manage your cat allergies around a Caracal by grooming them properly, putting them on a breed appropriate diet, cleaning your home regularly, washing your hands after touching your cat, and taking antihistamine medication when necessary.
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