Cat owners who love their pets but hate the allergies that accompany them now can purchase a hypoallergenic cat. The hypoallergenic cats are offered by ALLERCA, a San Diego, Calif., based company that will selectively breed the cats. The first allergy-free kittens will be ready to go to their new homes in early 2007. ALLERCA is currently taking orders for the kittens from enthusiastic allergic cat lovers. The estimated cost of a kitten is $3950, with additional fees for shipping and expediency.
ALLERCA has scientifically tested the hypoallergenic properties of these cats, the first in a series of lifestyle pets the company plans to develop. Using genetic technology, ALLERCA targeted and isolated the gene responsible for producing the common cat allergen, eventually eliminating it. In exposure trials, cat-allergic individuals did not demonstrate allergic reactions when handling and interacting with ALLERCAs cats.
One of the first people to order an ALLERCA hypoallergenic kitten, Nina Greenberg says she and her two children are delighted to add the new cat to their home, despite the high price. This is a family pet that is ideal for us, she said.
For more information about the hypoallergenic cats, visit ALLERCAs website at www.allerca.com.
Posted: June 10, 2006, 5:00 a.m. EST