Lykoi

Lykoi (Wolf) Cats: Breed Profile & Characteristics

The wild-at-heart Lykoi (pronounced "lie-koi") is a cat that usually would rather be active going on self-appointed adventures than just sitting about doing nothing. If you are lucky enough to see a Lykoi, which are extremely uncommon, you might mistake them for a miniature werewolf cat breed. The Greek word "Lykoi" actually means "wolf cat."

Aside from their sparsely furred bodies, Lykoi cats are about the same size and weight as other small- to medium-sized cat breeds. They weigh 6-12 pounds and are 8–10 inches tall.

What Is a Lykoi Cat

There is no denying that the Lykoi may be a difficult cat to adore. Typically medium in size, this werewolf cat breed has a wedge-shaped head with a hairless "mask" of skin covering its eyes, nose, snout, and back of its ears, and a slim, toned body. Even some Lykois have no hair at all. Despite having no genetic kinship, this frequently leads to them being mistaken for sphynx cats.

Despite their rugged exterior, the Lykoi have a delicate, short, and somewhat soft coat. The typical hue is black roan Lykoi cats, which have a somewhat silvery look. Because the Lykoi lacks an undercoat, he only has the thin top hairs, which might give him a werewolf-like appearance. They have amber or green eyes that are almost spherical.

Furthermore, because the Lykoi is such a young breed, it is still too early to fully understand its genetic composition and potential problems.

Their Temperament

This breed of cat is friendly and laid back. The disposition of the Lykoi cat makes it easy for him to get along with people, cats, and canines that are kind to cats. Although Lykoi cats are normally quite playful, they occasionally go off on their own.

Although they are receptive to new people, they may first act a little distant and bashful around them since they enjoy the company of their usual human partners and may stick with them after company is finished.

History Note

For years, feral cats have been randomly exhibiting the mutation that gives the Lykoi their unique coat and appearance. Breeders Johnny Gobble and Patti Thomas established the breed in 2011 and produced the first litter of a werewolf cat breed.

The International Cat Association (TICA) claims that in order to demonstrate that the breed originated specifically from the cats' genes, the breeders matched a pair of unrelated Lykois. Feral cat colonies continue to produce some Lykoi cats. In 2012, Lykoi was awarded registration status by TICA. The breed has been granted championship status by TICA as of 2017.

Caring for a Lykoi

Due to spontaneous mutations, the Lykoi cat has a distinctive appearance and is half hairless. Their face, tail, and legs are primarily solid colored, and their coat pattern is a combination of colored and white hairs on the body. Despite its tough appearance, their fur is actually smooth. Additionally, related rare cat breeds are velvety to the touch due to their patchy, undercoatless growth.

To avoid greasy skin, Lykoi cats need a premium diet and sporadic bathing, just like the equally virtually nude Sphynx. In most seasons, they might shed less than some other playful exotic cats. However, be advised that Lykoi cats occasionally molt and may go nearly bald, a condition known lovingly as "wolfing out."

How To Feed a Lykoi

Lykoi kittens can be given many meals a day at predetermined times or free-fed, meaning they have access to food all day. Rare cat breeds should be fed modest meals at least twice a day once they reach adulthood.

Consider using a food puzzle, lick mat, or slow feeder to serve a few meals or snacks if your Lykoi is eating too quickly or might benefit from mealtime enrichment (most cats can!).

How Much Should You Feed a Lykoi?

Kittens need several meals of wholesome food that is designed for growth each day because they have a lot of growing to do. However, adult cats are susceptible to obesity and weight gain.

Discuss with your veterinarian your adult cat's optimal weight, way of life, and any underlying medical issues. How many calories your adult Lykoi cat should consume each day can be recommended by your veterinarian.

Nutritional Tips for Lykois 

Generally speaking, your Lykoi doesn't need supplements as long as they are consuming comprehensive and balanced cat or kitten food.

The skin of your practically nude cat may get healthier if your veterinarian suggests a meal that is higher in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids. On an as-needed basis, your veterinarian might also provide vitamins for certain health conditions to which your Lykoi may be vulnerable.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Because Lykoi cats are known to be high-energy and inherently curious, their perfect homes are those that value an active and adventurous companion. The owners of playful exotic cats shouldn't be concerned if their Lykoi molts their entire coat, but their unusual appearance necessitates occasional bathing with mild, cat-friendly shampoo!

Most homes benefit from the friendly and loving nature of Lykoi cats, but families with small children or pets should be wary of their high prey drive. It takes daily play and cerebral stimulation to keep these curious cats happy.

Final Thoughts on the Lykoi Cat

Genuinely rare cat breeds, the Lykois span a wild, werewolf-like look with an unexpectedly loving, inquisitive, and playful nature. Although the Lykoi's unusual coat and propensity to "wolf out" are striking, it's their gregarious nature that makes them popular. This breed thrives in households with lots of enrichment, loves interactive play, and develops close relationships with people they know.

Adopting a Lykoi has some obligations. These playful exotic cats require periodic washes due to their partial hairlessness, and their active personalities necessitate constant mental and physical engagement. Although they are generally healthy, because they are a new breed, long-term health data is still being gathered, which makes routine veterinary care even more crucial.

Every Lykoi kitten at Happy Paws is vaccinated, health-checked, and reared in a loving home to make sure they're content, sociable, and prepared for their future home. Get in touch with us right now to meet your future kitten if you're searching for a unique feline friend that possesses both charm and character!