The Lykoi Cat

Is it a dog? Is it a wolf? No. It’s a Lykoi!!

Yes its a weird warewolf looking breed of cat, but one that is so unique and striking in appearance.

The Lykoi cat is a unique and special breed of cat that has gained popularity in recent years. These cats are known for their wolf-like appearance, and they are truly one-of-a-kind. Lykoi are intelligent, active, and affectionate cats that make great companions.

In this guide, we’re going to delve into the fine details of the Lykoi breed, show you the pros and cons of owning one, so that you can make an informed decision on whether this cat breed is right for you and your family.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know everything there is to know about the Lykoi cat breed!

Lykoi Breed Overview

History of the Lykoi

Lykoi cats are NOT a cross between wolves and domestic cats, as some people may think.

Lykoi cats are actually a natural mutation of the domestic shorthair cat. This means that Lykoi cats are 100% domestic and do not have any wolf blood in them whatsoever. It also means that this breed is 100% natural mutation breed that popped up in the domestic cat population.

The Lykoi cat is a relatively new breed, having only been around since 2011. Patti Thomas and Johnny Gobble, Lykoi Cat breeders, are credited with being the first to produce this unique cat.

Lykoi cats get their name from the Greek word for “wolf”, due to their wolf-like appearance.

The breeders matched a pair of unrelated Lykois to prove the breed originated from the cats’ genes, according to The International Cat Association (TICA). Some Lykoi cats are still being born in feral cat colonies.

In 2012, TICA granted Lykoi registration status. TICA has approved the breed for championship status as of 2017.

Appearance

The Lykoi is also sometimes called the “werewolf” cat due to their unique appearance, which includes a coat that is mostly bald with patches of hair around the face and body. They are also known for their unusually large eyes and ears.

Lykoi is a medium-sized cat which has a slender but toned body. It’s head is a strange wedge-shaped with a hairless “mask” of skin around its eyes, nose, muzzle, and backs of the ears. 

You will find that some Lykois are completely hairless, which frequently leads to them being confused with sphynx cats, despite the fact that the two have no genetic connection. The Lykoi is not related to any other hairless breed of cat.

Size

The Lykoi is a small to medium sized cat. They weigh between 4 and 7 pounds.

Temperament

While the Lykoi may look like something out of a horror movie, they are actually very gentle and loving cats. They have wonderful playful temperaments. They are very social creatures and enjoy being around people and other animals. Lykoi cats are also very affectionate and they make great companions.

Lykoi cats have wonderful playful temperaments. They are inquisitive and intelligent by nature, and have been known to play fetch. They enjoy company and bond well with their own.

Health

Because they are frequent shedders, the Lykoi’s skin can get exposed to the sun and burn. You’ll notice that when they shed completely, their skin tans and goes a darker color. That’s why it is important to keep your Lykoi inside when the weather is hot and sunny.

The Lykoi is considered to be a healthy cat with no major health concerns associated with the breed.

Living Requirements

Lykoi cats are very active, and need plenty of exercise. They love to play games and explore their surroundings. Lykoi cats also like to climb, so it is important to provide them with plenty of toys and climbing opportunities.

Because of their thin coat, it is recommended that they be kept as indoor cats only. Their coat offers very little protection to the cold in the winter and the direct sunshine in the summer months. It’ll be like us humans walking outside on a cold day with no clothes on. They just won’t be able to cope with these outdoor conditions, so its best to keep them inside and happy.

Caring for your Lykoi

If you like idea of brushing and washing your cat, then the Lykois is the breed for you. They need a lot of grooming!!!

Lykois shed a lot! They shed a couple of times a year and can lose all of their hair. They then grow it back again in a few months. That’s why it is important to brush your Lykoi 2 to 3 times a week to keep ahead of the game.

You will have to bath your Lykoi every month. This keeps stops the build up of oil on their skin and keeps their exposed skin clean.

How Much Does A Lykois Cost?

Lykoi cats are rare. Because the breed is relatively new, there’s not many of them around. Breeders are few and far between, which means that prices will be high if you do find one that are selling kittens.

If you do manage to find a breeder with a litter of Lykoi kittens then expect to pay anywhere between $2000 – $10,000. Also be prepared to travel, as the likelihood of finding a local breeder is slim.

Also expect to be put on a very long waiting list for your new Lykoi kitten.

Interesting Facts About Lykois

#1 – Lykoi is a variant of the Greek word for wolf, lycos.

#2 – They change color. After they molt in the winter, they grow back hair that has a slight color variation form the last coat.

#3 – They are extremely rare. As I just mentioned, finding a Lykoi cat is like finding a chicken’s tooth. Because the breed is quite new, there are limited amounts of breeders in the world, which means limited amounts of kittens.

#4 – The Lykoi is not a “designer cat breed.” They are the result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation in feral cats.