The main thing about Lykoi cats is their striking appearance. On first seeing a Lykoi cat you’d be forgiven from thinking it had serious issues with it’s coat.
However, this strange looking kitty with a werewolf appearance gets it’s name from the Greek word Lykoi meaning wolf. You may be surprised to hear this scruffy breed isn’t related to the Sphynx.
While Sphynx are known for their sparse or completely hairless bodies, Lykoi cats are rarely without hair. In this post you’ll discover all about Lykoi cats and how they originated.
You’ll also learn more about this unique cat’s appearance, personality, and lots more. Keep reading to find out if this is the right breed for you.
How It All Began
You’ll be interested to hear that Lykoi cats are a natural breed. In fact, they’re the result of a natural gene mutation.
It seems this unique breed was born from domestic shorthairs and not hairless cats. These sparsely haired cats started appearing in feral colonies and most ended up in shelters or rescue centers.
This is because no one realised just how special and unique they are. Presumably, those who dropped these cats off at shelters believed them to be just scruffy strays.
In fact, you’ll also be interested to hear they were given the nickname, “second chance breed!” These partial haired cats weren’t restricted to one area, but found in over 17 places around the world.
This further confirms the breed was entirely natural. If you’re wondering when the Lykoi breed was founded, it was in 2010.
During this year, a vet and his wife acquired cats from two unrelated litters for study. These kittens had a normal black domestic shorthair mother.
After a DNA test showed they weren’t sphynx or other hairless breed they were given to vet Dr Johnny Goble and his wife Brittney. You’ll be amused to hear these kittens were lovingly refereed to as “mutants.”
In addition to DNA testing for ancestry, they were also tested for possible inherited diseases. Fortunately, none were found, and a breeding program was set up in 2011.
This involved using only black cats to get the dramatic werewolf coat pattern.
The Lykoi Cat Appearance
If you were to look at a Lykoi cat you’d notice a large hairless area on the face.
This extends around the eye area, nose and muzzle. In addition, you’d also spot hairless patches on the back of the ears.
Looking at the head you’d notice it has a wedge shape with round green or amber eyes. In addition, the Lykoi is a small to medium size cat with a slender, muscular body.
You certainly won’t find a heavy weight sitting on your lap as most only weigh between four to seven pounds. Typically though, males are larger.
If you were to stroke a Lykoi cat you’d notice the coat’s rough texture. While most have a sparse covering of hair, you may find the occasional hairless kitty.
Another characteristic is a lack of undercoat. This gives the Lykoi cat it’s scruffy, unkempt look.
Most are solid black with a hint of silver. However, you may also find some with grey coloring.
Personality Of The Lykoi Cat
If you want a gentle, loving cat, the Lykoi is a breed to consider. Although not the prettiest of kitties, her sweet nature will win your heart.
You’ll need plenty of toys though as this breed is highly energetic! Don’t expect a Lykoi to sit on your lap all the time.
While you will get some cuddle time, expect a cat that likes to explore. Lykoi kitties are also highly intelligent and great problem solvers.
In fact, they love nothing better than playing with puzzle toys or interactive games. The best way to keep Lykoi cats mentally stimulated is by stocking up on plenty of toys and rotate them.
This is the best way to avoid boredom. Aside from being highly intelligent the Lykoi is very dog-like. In fact, this smart kitty can be taught tricks such as fetch.
Caring For Your Lykoi Cat
If you decide to adopt a Lykoi you’ll be advised to keep her indoors. This is because she’s partially hairless and as mentioned before, vulnerable to cold temperatures.
As well as the cold though, hairless or partially hairless cats are also at risk of sunburn. This means you’ll need to create an enriching indoor environment for your feline friend.
Essential items apart from toys include a scratching post to sharpen her claws. Also, a cat tree with high level perches allow for surveying surroundings and resting.
Placing the tree next to window would be the perfect spot for an inquisitive Lykoi! Like all cats, the Lykoi moults, however, this breed moults regularly with big moults twice a year.
This may seem alarming though as some lose their entire coat! However, don’t panic as it soon grows back.
A very unique trait of this breed is the ability for hair to grow back in different shades. This can be a mix of colors such as black, white, grey, and silver.
If you’re wondering about grooming, Lykoi cats shed regularly so you’ll need to brush your kitty two or three times a week. This helps keep the skin and coat in good condition.
Most cats suffer dental disease once they reach three years old. You can take steps to help prevent this by keeping your Lykoi cat’s teeth and gums healthy.
Do Lykoi Cats Have Health Problems?
Although DNA tests showed no signs of potential health problems in the Lykoi breed, it’s still early days. As the breed is still very new only dating back to 2010, it’s possible health issues may arise.
Should you adopt a Lykoi it’s recommended you get her checked over to rule out common diseases. This gives peace of mind and addresses any problems early on.
Where To Find A Lykoi Cat
Although they’ve gained popularity, Lykoi are still a new breed. In fact, there are fewer than 150 standard Lykoi anywhere in the world.
This makes unsuspecting buyers a prime target for fraudsters.
NEVER buy any breed of cat before seeing the kitten first, as well as the mother. You may be able to find a breeder in your area, by searching online.
However, TICA may be a good place to start. Whatever you do though, always check any breeder out before arranging a visit.
Final Thoughts
In this post we’ve covered most of what you need to know about Lykoi cats. This includes what Lykoi cats look like, their personality, and care
. Whether you’re interested in adopting a Lykoi cat or just curious I hope I’ve answered some of your questions. Lykoi cats are a very unique breed resembling hairless breeds such as Sphynx and Devon Rex.
However, they’re not related and most have a least a sparse covering of hair. If you’ve enjoyed this post please share. Feel free to share this pin
Also if you have any questions or would like to share experiences, leave a comment below.
Wishing you a purrfect day:)
Kathy
Hi Kathy,
I am learning about a new breed I never heard of before. And I think they sound quite interesting and lovable. But, I must admit the hairless feature around their eyes is quite novel.
I love the fact that the females are smaller and sound like a nice sized cat. But, I am not sure I want to be dealing with all the shedding they produce. I do like the fact that the Lykoi cats can grow back fur in different colors and shades. That would keep your cat interesting!
Thank you for introducing me to another unique cat breed!
Hi Chas, yes, few cats have hairless features apart from the Sphynx so it’s quite novel. There are also no other cat I know of that’s able to grow hair back in different colours which makes this breed very unique. I agree that owning a Lykoi cat could be quite demanding with frequent shedding! Unless you’re prepared to groom one of these cats 2 or 3 times a week you’re better off with a different breed
We cannot judge Lykoi by their appearance because they are gentle and loving cats under their looks. And, I am surprised by the different colors of their hairs once growing back, which makes the owners feel like having a new cat.
Another shocking news is that there is less than 150 standard Lykoi cat globally. The cost of having one must skyrocket, so adoption is a better approach. 🙂
Hi Matt, the Lykoi cat certainly is unique! I don’t know of any other cat that’s able to grow back different colour hairs in it’s coat! Yes, it’s a great pity there’s so few of these cats around, however, I’m sure with breeding this will change. I’m not sure about the cost of buying a Lykoi cat, but agree, adoption would be the best idea. Thanks for stopping by:)