8 pets that won't make you sneeze

While you won't be able to find a pet that is 100% hypoallergenic for everyone, there are certain species and breeds that dramatically reduce the chances of triggering allergic reactions. So if you want a pet, but you or someone in your house is allergic, read on to find your match.

Dogs and cats are the most common pets. They've been evolving alongside humans for millennia and millions of people consider them furry family members. Yet the problem is that they are some of the most allergy-inducing pets.

We often tend to think that people are allergic to pet fur, but this is not entirely true. Instead, allergies occur when the immune system reacts to proteins found in an animal's skin cells, urine, or saliva. These particles can float in the air and, when inhaled, can cause symptoms like itchy and watery eyes, sneezing or skin rashes.

However, certain breeds are less likely to trigger allergies in some people due to the type of coat they have. Pets with hair, rather than fur, are often considered to be more hypoallergenic because they shed less and produce fewer allergens. Yorkshire terriers are one cute example of a dog with hair.

Other dog breeds that are indicated for people with mild or moderate allergies are the Italian greyhound, the Maltese bichon or the American hairless terrier.

While people can be allergic to dogs, cats or both, they trigger allergies in a similar way. Proteins known as Fel D1, the major feline allergen, accumulate in cat fur after they lick themselves clean. After that, the fur spreads around the home and causes reactions in allergy sufferers. However, there are breeds that either do not lick as much or do not shed as much hair and produce fewer allergy symptoms like the Siberian or the sphinx breeds.

Chinchillas or rabbits (especially short-haired) can also be good options, since they produce fewer allergens than other furry friends. At the same time, since they don't usually run freely around your house, the chances of them spreading allergens is reduced. However, the hay that they eat or products used for their hygiene can cause allergies, so watch out. Of course, it is also necessary to consult the legislation of each country, as some restrictions may be in place on keeping these animals as pets.

For obvious reasons, fish are great pets for people with allergies since contact with them is minimal. And if you observe them closely, you'll see that they aren't as boring as some people may think.

The one drawback to fish, in certain circumstances, is the introduction of humidity into a space. If improperly cared for, it can spur mold growth, which can trigger allergies. So make sure to take good care of the fish tank to avoid humidity problems.

Yes, birds do have feathers, but allergies to birds are much less common than allergies to mammals. It's still important to be sure they don't provoke allergies, as the mites that they harbor in their feathers can provoke allergic reactions as well.

Once again we have to draw attention to the need to pay attention to local legislations. They are becoming more and more restrictive and only some species (basically canaries) are allowed as pets. The rest have to fly free.

While insects are often overlooked, they can make great pets for people with open minds.

The most common option may be spiders, but the stick insect is another interesting choice. Since you won't have much contact with them and they won't be given free reign of the house, their allregy potential is almost nill. That's not the same for pest species like cockroaches, which are a very common allergy source.

Who, as a child, hasn't dreamed of having an ant farm? They can be fascinating for scientifically-minded folks. And, as is the case with fish, reptiles and insects, since there is a physical barrier between you and your pet, the absence of allergies is virtually guaranteed.