Table of content
Lykoi Cat Traits: What Makes This Breed Stand Out?
The Lykoi cat is a truly unique breed, known for its distinctive appearance and sparse, patchy fur. Despite its unusual look, this cat is loving, playful, and enjoys forming strong bonds with its owners.
The Lykoi cat, a unique cat breed known as the "werewolf cat," exhibits a striking appearance with a partially hairless coat. Named from the Greek word for wolves, these cats have a wedge shaped head, large ears, and striking golden eyes. Their coat features a roan pattern with scattered white hairs and lacks an undercoat except around the eyes, muzzle, and feet, resembling longer guard hairs elsewhere.
This Cat Breed arose from a natural mutation, resembling feral cats in their lean physique and high energy levels. They are medium sized, domestic shorthair cats with a propensity for spending time active and exploring.
Quick facts
Life Span |
How long do Lykoi cats live? 12 - 15 years. |
Average Weight |
2.0kg - 4.6kg |
Colours |
The Lykoi cat has a roan pattern based on black, with scattered white hairs throughout. |
Essential Information
- Lykoi cats requires an experienced owner.
- Requires high levels of enrichment.
- Love simulated hunting games and interactive play.
- Lykoi cats are highly active and curious
- Sociable and affectionate cat
- Lykoi cats are vocal and communicative
- Slim and graceful cat
- Lykoi cats requires daily grooming
- Benefits from access to both indoor and outdoor spaces
- Lykoi cats are best suited to calm environments
- Can tolerate being left alone for short periods
- Lykoi cats love attention but are also independent when needed.
- They tend to bond closely with their owners and enjoy interactive play.
- Lykoi cats are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming due to their sparse fur.
- Their striking eyes stand out against their unique coat.
- Lykoi cats are adaptable to different living environments, whether it's a house or an apartment.
Lykoi Cat Breed Health
Here are the known breed health issues for Lykoi cats.
- Skin sensitivities due to their sparse coat, which can make them prone to irritation or sunburn.
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Ear infections as their lack of ear fur allows dirt and debris to accumulate more easily. -
Cold sensitivity because of their thin coat, making them more susceptible to cooler temperatures. -
Regular grooming may be needed to keep their exposed skin healthy and clean.
Lykoi cats are generally healthy and not known for specific genetic health problems.
Personality of the Lykoi Cat.
The Lykoi cat, recognized as the werewolf cat, is a unique breed distinguished by its partially hairless appearance. Descended from a natural mutation and named after the Greek word for wolves, these domestic shorthair cats feature a wedge shaped head and high energy levels. While they lack an undercoat and have sparse hair in some areas, they are medium sized and known for their inquisitive nature. Lykoi cats thrive on interactive play and enjoy spending time with both humans and other pets.
Breed Rating
Family Friendly |
1/5 |
Playfulness |
4/5 |
Intelligence |
3/5 |
Likes Other Pets |
3/5 |
Grooming Needs |
1/5 |
Shedding |
4/5 |
Vocalize |
5/5 |
History and Origins
The Lykoi breed was first developed in Virginia, USA around 2010 when Patti Thomas discovered a pair of siblings at a shelter. Concerned by their unique appearance, Patti and her vet conducted extensive health tests, revealing they carried a recessive gene responsible for their distinctive roan coat. To establish the breed, they selectively outcrossed these cats with domestic shorthairs. This effort led to the development of Lykoi cats capable of producing both typical and sparse coated variants in their litters.
In 2013, the first Lykoi cats were imported to the UK, with the initial sparse coated Lykoi kittens born there in May 2015. As a relatively new and rare breed, it's important to note that many online images of Lykoi cats may be digitally enhanced to accentuate their werewolf like appearance.
Outdoors or Indoors
Due to their sparse coat, Lykoi cats, descendants of a natural mutation discovered by Patti Thomas in Virginia, USA, around 2010, are not suited to extreme weather conditions. It's recommended to keep them indoors to protect them from cold, wet weather and potential sunburn on hot days, as they lack the insulation provided by a full coat.
However, supervised access to a secure garden or a sheltered cat run can be provided, ensuring they have a place to escape from the sun or cold as needed.
Aside from these environmental considerations, Lykoi cats are adaptable and enjoy typical cat behaviors such as climbing and play. Providing a cat tree, scratching posts, and interactive toys will meet their needs and keep them engaged.
Enrichment and specific needs
The Lykoi cat requires daily mental and physical stimulation, including Puzzle Feeders, fetch games, and Slow Feeding Mats. They enjoy climbing and jumping, so ensure ample space for cat trees and jungle gyms. Due to their sparse coat, they prefer warmer environments and will seek out sunny spots in summer and cosy up on a Radiator Cat Bed or fires in winter.
Nutrition and Feeding
Despite their distinctive appearance, the Lykoi's nutritional requirements are similar to those of other cats.
Each cat is unique, with individual preferences and dietary needs. As obligate carnivores, all cats require 41 essential nutrients from their diet. The specific balance of these nutrients varies based on factors like age, lifestyle, and overall health. For instance, a growing, active kitten will need a different nutrient profile than a less active senior cat.
It's important to feed cats the appropriate quantity of food to maintain their "ideal body condition," as outlined in feeding guidelines. Additionally, respecting their preferences for wet or dry food is essential for ensuring they receive adequate nutrition and enjoy their meals.
Find out more about Cat Nutrition with our article.
Grooming your Lykoi Cat
Despite the Lykoi's short and non tangling fur, their generally unkempt appearance may make it challenging to notice minor scrapes and injuries. Therefore, it's wise to conduct a daily inspection of their coat and give it a thorough comb through once a week. Lykoi cats can shed their entire coat seasonally, making a regular Grooming routine crucial for this Cat Breed. Brushing them once or twice a week will effectively manage shedding.
Additionally, bathing them once a month helps keep their exposed skin clean and prevents oil buildup. A greasy coat may indicate your cat is not grooming itself adequately, possibly signaling health issues such as obesity or illness.
Like all cats, Lykoi cats benefit from routine Vaccinations, Flea Control, Microchipping and annual veterinary check ups to ensure their ongoing health and well being.
Family Life Compatibility
The Lykoi cat thrives best in a calm household environment, ideally with quiet teenagers or no children at all. They are highly active and require significant attention, making them prone to behavioral issues in busy, loud, or chaotic settings. It's crucial to keep them indoors within a secure environment, especially with young children, to mitigate risks.
Regarding other household pets, the good natured Lykoi generally gets along well with various domestic animals. However, initial interactions should always be supervised, as compatibility can vary based on individual personalities. Early socialization efforts can greatly benefit this breed in fostering positive relationships with other pets.
Quick Facts on Lykoi Cats
- Natural Mutation : The Lykoi cat originated from a natural genetic mutation in domestic shorthair cats, giving them their unique appearance.
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Fur That Changes : Their coat can grow back in different patterns after shedding, giving them an ever-evolving look. -
Highly Intelligent : Lykoi cats are known for their sharp problem-solving skills and curiosity, often figuring out new tricks and Cat Toys quickly. -
Partially Hairless : Unlike most cats, Lykoi have sparse, patchy fur that can make them appear partially hairless in some areas.
FAQ
Where can i find Lykoi Kittens for sale?
If you're looking to find a Lykoi kitten, it's important to connect with reputable breeders who specialize in this unique breed. Searching for "Lykoi kittens for sale UK" can lead you to licensed breeders who offer healthy Lykoi kittens raised in good environments. Websites dedicated to cat breeds often have listings for "Lykoi cats for sale," where you can find available kittens. Additionally, contacting local breeders or breed-specific cat associations may help you locate a "Lykoi cat for sale" in your area. Always ensure that the breeder provides proper health checks and documentation before purchasing your Lykoi kitten.
Which cat breeds are related to the Lykoi Cat?
The Lykoi cat is not directly related to any specific breed but is a result of a natural genetic mutation found in domestic shorthair cats. However, its appearance and characteristics can draw comparisons to breeds like the Sphynx, due to their sparse or lack of fur, and the Devon Rex, which also has a unique, textured coat. Though not genetically related, these breeds share some physical traits, such as a striking and unusual look, making them appealing to the same cat enthusiasts. The Lykoi cat remains a distinct breed due to its "werewolf-like" appearance and natural mutation origin.
What is special about the Lykoi or werewolf cat?
The Lykoi, often referred to as the "werewolf cat," is special due to its unique appearance and fascinating background. Lykoi cats are the result of a natural genetic mutation found in domestic shorthair cats, giving them their sparse, patchy coat and wild, "werewolf-like" look. Their fur often appears thin, and they may even appear partially hairless in some areas, contributing to their distinctive look. Despite their rugged appearance, Lykoi werewolf cats are known for being affectionate, intelligent, and playful. Their mysterious and captivating appearance combined with their loving personality makes them a truly special and sought after breed.
Where can I adopt a Lykoi?
If you're looking to adopt a Lykoi in the UK, your best bet is to start by contacting reputable breeders who may occasionally have older Lykoi cats available for adoption. You can also search for breed-specific rescue organizations or shelters that may specialize in rare breeds, including Lykoi cats. Websites that focus on pet adoptions may list Lykoi cats available for rehoming, though this breed is relatively rare, so finding one for adoption may take time. Additionally, it’s worth reaching out to Lykoi breeders directly, as they may know of cats needing new homes or can guide you in the right direction.
How much do Lykoi cats cost?
In the UK, the cost of a Lykoi cat can vary depending on factors such as the breeder’s reputation, the kitten’s pedigree, and whether the cat has been health tested. Typically, the Lykoi cat price ranges from £1,500 to £2,500. Since Lykoi cats are a rare breed, this higher price reflects their unique genetics and limited availability. When searching for a "Lykoi cat for sale" in the UK, it's important to ensure you're purchasing from a reputable breeder who follows ethical breeding practices. In addition to the initial Lykoi price, consider additional costs for vaccinations, microchipping, and routine Kitten Care.
What are the Lykoi characteristics?
Lykoi cats have several distinctive characteristics that set them apart from other breeds. Their most notable feature is their patchy, sparse coat, which gives them a wild, "werewolf-like" appearance. This coat can be a mix of short and partially hairless areas, often with a grizzled or wiry texture. In terms of Body Language, Lykoi cats are expressive, often displaying their curiosity through alert, wide eyes and active, agile movements. They are known for being highly intelligent and curious, using their body language to explore their environment with confidence. Playful and energetic, yet also independent, Lykoi cats enjoy both time with their owners and solitary exploration. Despite their rugged appearance, they are affectionate and form strong bonds with their humans, often seeking attention through gentle pawing or rubbing against their owners.
Kelly Rushton
Meet Kelly Rushton, a dedicated cat enthusiast and proud owner of Feline Fancy Ltd. With a heart as big as her household, Kelly is the loving mum to 10 charming Ragdoll cats. In her world, felines reign supreme, and she brings professionalism and warmth to everything she does. Through her blog, Kelly shares her wealth of knowledge and experiences, offering insights into cat care, behavior, and the joy of living alongside these majestic creatures.
