The Lykoi cat, often referred to as the “wolf cat” or “werewolf cat,” is a breed that immediately captures attention with its unique, somewhat wild appearance. If you’re fortunate enough to encounter one of these rare felines, you might indeed do a double-take, wondering if you’ve spotted a miniature werewolf. The name “Lykoi” itself, derived from the Greek word for wolves, “lycos,” perfectly encapsulates this breed’s striking aesthetic.
Despite their untamed look, Lykoi cats are domestic felines of medium size, sharing similar dimensions with many other cat breeds. Typically, they stand between 8 to 10 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 6 to 12 pounds, making them a manageable and intriguing companion for the right owner.
Understanding Lykoi Cat Care
The Lykoi’s distinctive appearance, characterized by partial hairlessness, is a result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation. This mutation leads to a unique roan coat pattern, a fascinating mix of colored and white hairs distributed across their body. Interestingly, while their face, tail, and legs tend to exhibit more solid coloration, the overall coat gives a patchy, sparse impression. Despite its seemingly coarse look, the Lykoi’s fur is surprisingly smooth and soft to the touch, largely due to the absence of a dense undercoat. Instead, their fur grows in distinctive patches, contributing to their singular charm.
Veterinarians like Dr. Antonio DeMarco, DVM, chief medical officer at GoodVets, who has encountered only a handful of Lykois over 15 years, attribute their partial hairlessness to a genetic condition called hypotrichosis. This condition in Lykoi cats manifests as a reduced number of hair follicles within each hair follicle group, resulting in thinner hair, as Dr. DeMarco explains.
Similar to Sphynx cats, another breed known for minimal fur, Lykois benefit from a high-quality diet and occasional baths. These baths are essential to manage potential oily skin, a common trait in sparsely furred breeds. While Lykois may shed less than many fully coated cats throughout most of the year, prospective owners should be aware of their unique molting behavior. Lykoi cats undergo periods of molting, sometimes quite dramatically, where they can lose a significant portion of their coat, even becoming almost entirely bald. This phenomenon, affectionately termed “wolfing out,” is a natural, albeit striking, characteristic of the breed.
Lykoi Cat Breed Health Considerations
The Lykoi Cat Breed is relatively new, officially established in 2011 by veterinarian Johnny Gobble. From the outset, Gobble prioritized the breed’s health and genetic soundness. Atreyukatz Cattery, a prominent Lykoi breeder, highlights Gobble’s meticulous approach, which included comprehensive health testing of the founding kittens. These tests spanned infectious diseases, genetic disorders, and even thorough cardiac examinations. Furthermore, Gobble collaborated with geneticists at the University of California, Davis, and dermatologists from the University of Tennessee to rigorously rule out any breed-specific health predispositions.
Thanks to these careful breeding practices, Lykoi cats are generally considered a healthy breed, boasting an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, their unique coat does make them somewhat more susceptible to certain health issues, and like all domestic cats, they can be affected by common feline ailments. Therefore, exploring pet insurance for a Lykoi kitten is a prudent consideration for any owner.
Lymphocytic Mural Folliculitis
Research, notably a study from the University of Missouri, has identified lymphocytic mural folliculitis as a condition linked to the reduced hair follicle density in Lykoi cats’ skin. Typically, this condition is associated with allergic reactions in cats with normal coats.
Cats affected by lymphocytic mural folliculitis may exhibit scaly, crusty skin, particularly on their head, neck, and abdomen. Other symptoms can include sores around the lips and eyelids, and dry, cracked paw pads. Any such skin abnormalities warrant a veterinary visit to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Dental Disease
Dental disease is a widespread concern in the feline world, and Lykoi cats are not exempt. This condition can lead to a range of problems, from bad breath to pain and even tooth loss. Preventive measures are key, with regular tooth brushing at home and routine veterinary dental checkups being the most effective strategies.
Nutritional Needs of Lykoi Cats
Lykoi cats, both kittens and adults, thrive on cat food that meets the nutritional guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for their respective life stages. Lykoi kittens have specific nutritional requirements for growth and development, necessitating kitten-specific food formulations. Around the age of one year, they should transition to adult cat food.
Feeding Guidelines for Lykois
When it comes to feeding frequency, Lykoi kittens can be free-fed, meaning they have constant access to food, or fed scheduled meals throughout the day. Adult Lykoi cats, on the other hand, benefit from structured feeding, typically with small meals offered twice a day or more.
For Lykois who tend to eat too quickly or could benefit from a more engaging mealtime, consider incorporating food puzzles, lick mats, or slow feeders. These tools can slow down eating, provide mental stimulation, and make mealtimes more enriching.
Portion Control for Lykoi Cats
Kittens require ample nutrition to support their rapid growth, thus needing multiple daily meals of high-quality kitten food. Adult cats, however, are prone to weight gain and obesity, making portion control crucial.
Consulting with a veterinarian is essential to determine your adult Lykoi’s ideal weight, considering their lifestyle and any underlying health conditions. Your vet can provide tailored recommendations for daily calorie intake to maintain a healthy weight.
Nutritional Supplements for Lykois
Generally, if a Lykoi cat is consuming a complete and balanced cat or kitten food, supplemental vitamins or minerals are unnecessary.
However, in some cases, veterinarians may recommend food enriched with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can be beneficial for skin health, particularly in sparsely coated breeds like the Lykoi. Veterinary guidance is always recommended before introducing any supplements to your Lykoi’s diet.
Lykoi Cat Behavior and Training
Lykoi Cat Personality and Temperament
Lykoi cats are known for being friendly and affectionate with their families. However, their lineage, tracing back to feral cat populations in recent generations, contributes to a strong prey drive. Don’t be surprised to see your Lykoi engaging in stalking and pouncing behaviors, even towards you! While they make wonderful house pets, their inherent prey instincts mean they may not be the best match for very small or timid pets.
Lykoi Cat Behavior Traits
Lykois are not averse to a warm lap, especially on cooler days, as their thinner coat can make them feel the chill. However, they are generally more active and independent, often found exploring and investigating their surroundings or engaging in self-directed activities.
Intelligent and energetic, Lykoi cats are always seeking stimulation. Whether it’s playfully interacting with houseplants or stealthily pursuing a favorite toy, they thrive on engagement and activity.
Lykoi Cat Training and Activities
Lykoi cats, being intelligent and active, are often receptive to training and enjoy learning tricks.
However, traditional leash and harness training may not be ideal for Lykois due to their high prey drive and sensitive skin. A safer and more enriching outdoor option is a shaded and secure catio. Indoors, training sessions using positive reinforcement methods like treats, toys, and praise can be very effective for teaching tricks like fist bumps or recall.
Fun Activities for Lykoi Cats:
- Climbing and perching on cat trees or shelves
- Exploring new environments within the home
- Playing stalking games with toys or even people
- Interactive play with wand toys
- Fetching toys
- Solving food puzzles
- Snuggling under blankets
- Sunbathing in moderation (with sun protection)
- Lounging in comfortable cat beds
Lykoi Cat Grooming Essentials
Despite their sparse coat, Lykoi cats are not low-maintenance in terms of grooming. They require regular attention, including brushing and skincare.
Lykoi Skin Care
Maintaining a Lykoi’s skin health is crucial to preserving their unique appearance. Occasional baths are necessary to remove dirt and oil buildup on their exposed skin. Use a gentle, cat-specific shampoo free of harsh fragrances and drying agents.
Over-bathing can lead to skin dryness and irritation, so moderation is key.
Lykois are also susceptible to sunburn due to their thin coat. Keeping them indoors or in shaded outdoor areas is recommended. If outdoor exposure is unavoidable, consider UV-protective clothing or pet-safe sunscreen, especially for areas like the ears and nose. UV-blocking window film can also offer protection indoors.
Lykoi Coat Care
Lykoi cats do shed and undergo molting, sometimes dramatically. The extent and frequency of molting vary between individuals. Some Lykois may lose almost all their fur except for a small patch, while others experience minimal shedding.
Regular brushing, a few times a week, helps manage shedding, prevent matting, reduce hairballs, and keep the coat and skin healthy.
Lykoi Eye and Ear Care
Lykoi eyes generally don’t require special care, but any changes like excessive discharge should be checked by a vet.
Due to less fur around their ears, they may accumulate dirt or wax. Clean their ears gently when needed using a vet-approved ear cleaner.
Is a Lykoi Cat Right for You?
The ideal home for a Lykoi cat is one that appreciates an active, curious, and somewhat independent feline companion. Owners should be prepared for their unique grooming needs, including occasional baths and coat molting.
While their friendly nature makes them adaptable to many households, those with very small children or pets should be mindful of their strong prey drive. Providing ample daily play and mental stimulation is crucial for keeping these intelligent cats happy and well-adjusted.
Lykoi Cat FAQs
Why are Lykoi cats called “wolf cats” or “werewolf cats”?
Their name and nicknames stem from their wolf-like appearance, characterized by their sparse, roan coat and patchy fur, which gives them a resemblance to a miniature werewolf. The dramatic molting process, termed “wolfing out,” further reinforces this association.
Are Lykoi cats high-maintenance?
Lykois require moderate grooming. While not heavily coated, they need regular brushing and occasional baths to maintain skin and coat health. Owners need to be attentive to their skin, especially regarding sun sensitivity.
How much does a Lykoi cat cost?
The price of a Lykoi cat typically starts around $1,000 and can be higher depending on breeder, lineage, and location.
Featured Image: iStock/Angela Emanuelsson
WRITTEN BY Janelle Leeson, Freelance Writer
