Love the idea of owning a cat but dread the thought of fur-covered furniture and constant vacuuming? If you’re a cat owner who prefers a cleaner, more allergy-friendly home, there are feline companions out there that shed far less than others.
These low-shedding breeds let you enjoy all the purrs and playful antics without the overwhelming layer of fur on every surface. From the sleek Sphynx, famously hairless yet affectionate, to the short-coated Burmese, there are plenty of options for those who want a minimal-shedding pet.
With these cats, you can cuddle without worrying about fur storms, making them the perfect pick for anyone seeking a pet with all the love and less of the lint.
Cat Breeds that Shed Less
1. Devon Rex
Shedding Level: Minimal (like that one drop of shampoo that never lathers)
The Devon Rex is a pixie disguised as a cat. Those big, mischievous eyes and oversized, bat-like ears scream, “I’m up to something.” Luckily, what they’re not up to is coating your couch in fur. Their short, wavy coat clings tightly to their skin, making their shedding practically non-existent.
Personality-wise, they’re a mix of playful tricksters and devoted sidekicks. Need a buddy for a Netflix binge? The Devon Rex is in.
Want someone to knock over your carefully stacked pile of books just to make a point? They’re in for that too. These cats are proof that you can have a little chaos without the extra clean-up.
These cats are affectionate and form strong bonds with their humans, often following them around the house like loyal companions.
Active and energetic, they thrive on interactive play and social interaction, making them great for families, singles, or seniors who can provide plenty of attention. If you’re seeking a playful, loving, and social feline friend, the Devon Rex might be the perfect choice.
2. Cornish Rex
Shedding Level: Minimal (like a sprinkle of pepper)
If the Devon Rex is a cheeky elf, the Cornish Rex is the supermodel of the feline world — all elegant lines, sleek moves, and a coat that feels like crushed velvet.
Their fur is a single layer of fine, curly coat, which means these cats shed very little. You might even catch yourself wondering if they’re real or some kind of furry mirage.
As per PetMD, the Cornish Rex is often referred to as the “Greyhound of the cat world” due to their athletic build and kitten-like energy. Their sleek, muscular frame and active nature make them fast and agile, much like a greyhound.
Known for their playful and mischievous nature, Cornish Rex cats remain kitten-like throughout their lives, full of energy and curiosity. They are highly social and thrive on human interaction, often following their owners around and craving attention
Despite their posh appearance, these cats are all energy. A Cornish Rex will turn your living room into a racetrack, your countertops into a jungle gym, and your laundry pile into a five-star napping spot. They’re proof that a cat can be high-octane yet low-maintenance — a rare combo indeed.
3. Bombay
Shedding Level: Low (just enough to remind you they own the place)
Want the grace of a panther without the “might eat you” risk factor? Enter the Bombay — a sleek, shiny, black-coated beauty that looks like it should be prowling a jungle, not your hallway.
Their short, glossy fur sheds minimally, leaving a little reminder of their presence, but nothing you can’t handle.
Despite their exotic appearance, they are easy to care for, with their short, dense coat requiring minimal grooming. Bombays are known to be vocal, using their soft, expressive voices to communicate.
Bombays are affectionate, clingy, and confident — a cat-dog hybrid with a side of sass. They’ll follow you like a shadow, judge your choices (with love), and claim every lap as their throne.
If you’re after a cat that’s both regal and ridiculous, Bombay is your perfect match.
4. Burmese
Shedding Level: Low (like a whisper of fluff)
Originally from Burma (now Myanmar), this breed was further developed in the United States, resulting in a variety of rich coat colors, including sable, champagne, blue, and platinum.
Soft, smooth, and shiny — the Burmese cat is a living plush toy. Their short, satin-like coat sheds minimally, making grooming a breeze. Plus, they adore being pampered, so brushing time is just an extension of cuddle time.
According to Purina, the Burmese cat is personable and sociable, enjoying the company of both family members and visitors. They thrive on attention and will make sure to let you know if they’re not getting enough of it!
Personality-wise, these cats are affectionate on four paws. They’ll happily drape themselves across your lap, follow you around like a curious shadow, and try to chat their way into your snack stash. If you want a cat that’s both low-shed and high-love, the Burmese has got your back.
Burmese cats typically get along well with children and other pets, making them a great choice for families. If you’re seeking a loyal, people-oriented, and lively feline companion, the Burmese cat is an excellent choice.
5. Bengal
Shedding Level: Low to Moderate (like a dash of cinnamon)
Developed by crossing domestic cats with the Asian leopard cat, Bengals have a distinctive coat with bold, marbled, or spotted patterns that are silky, soft, and often glimmer with a unique “glitter” effect. Their muscular, athletic bodies and expressive, almond-shaped eyes add to their captivating appearance.
With their wild, rosette-patterned coats, Bengals look like they just wandered out of a jungle photoshoot.
But don’t worry — they’re more about cuddles than hunting, and their short, dense fur keeps shedding to a minimum. A quick brush now and then, and you’re good to go!
Bengals are active, intelligent, and always ready to turn your home into their adventure park. If you want a cat that climbs higher, runs faster, and has more attitude than your average feline, the Bengal is your perfect partner in crime — minus the excessive shedding.
6. Sphynx
Shedding Level: None (because there’s nothing to shed!)
The Sphynx cat is a distinctive and hairless cat breed known for its wrinkled skin, large ears, and striking, almond-shaped eyes. Despite their lack of fur, Sphynx cats are warm and soft to the touch, often described as having a suede-like texture.
Their hairlessness is due to a natural genetic mutation, making them one of the most recognizable and unique cat breeds.
Sphynx cats are known for their affectionate, playful, and social nature. They thrive on human companionship and are often described as “Velcro cats” because they love to stick close to their owners.
These cats are intelligent, curious, and energetic, enjoying interactive play, exploring their surroundings, and learning tricks. They are also known for their sense of humor and clownish behavior, making them a joy to be around.
Due to their lack of fur, Sphynx cats need regular baths to remove the natural oils that accumulate on their skin. They are sensitive to temperature changes and prefer warm environments, often seeking out sunny spots or cozying up with their humans for warmth.
7. Siamese
Shedding Level: Low to Moderate (just a little sprinkle)
Originating from Thailand (formerly Siam), Siamese cats have a rich history and were once considered sacred and treasured by royalty. Their short, low-maintenance coats come in various color points, including seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac, contrasting beautifully against their pale bodies.
Sleek, graceful, and vocal enough to host their podcast, Siamese cats are as opinionated as they are elegant. Their short, fine coat sheds lightly, but because they love grooming themselves, stray fur rarely becomes an issue.
If you bring a Siamese home, be ready for a constant companion — and an endless conversation. They’ll comment on your breakfast, critique your choice of shoes, and express their thoughts on every phone call you make.
If you’re looking for a low-shedding, high-chatting, super-snuggly buddy, the Siamese is your chatty match.
Conclusion
Cats that don’t shed are a great option for individuals who want to keep their homes free from excess cat hair and loose hair. While no cat is entirely free from shedding, there are hypoallergenic cat breeds and breeds that don’t shed as much as others. These breeds are often preferred by cat allergy sufferers since they produce less dander — tiny flakes of skin that can trigger allergies. Cat dander, along with proteins found in a cat’s saliva and cat fur, contributes to allergic reactions.
However, regular weekly brushing can help minimize the spread of dead hair and loose fur, reducing the need for constant cleaning. Understanding which cat breeds shed less and committing to proper grooming can help create a comfortable environment for both cats and their owners, making the cat world more accessible to everyone.
