Have you ever encountered a feline that could easily be mistaken for a miniature werewolf? Meet the Lykoi cat, a breed as captivating as its name suggests. “Lykoi,” derived from the Greek word for wolf, perfectly encapsulates the wild and somewhat untamed appearance of this unique feline. While their looks might evoke images of mythical creatures, the Lykoi is a relatively new domestic cat breed, capturing hearts with their distinctive charm and playful personalities. If you’re fortunate enough to spot a Lykoi, you’ll immediately recognize them by their sparse coat and striking features, setting them apart from any other cat breed you’ve encountered.
Despite their intriguing “werewolf cat” moniker and somewhat wild appearance, Lykois are similar in size to many other domestic cat breeds. They typically stand between 8 to 10 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 6 to 12 pounds, making them a medium-sized cat breed.
Delving into Lykoi Cat Care: What to Expect
The Lykoi cat’s most defining characteristic is its partially hairless coat, a result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation. This unique trait gives them their signature “werewolf” look. Their coat exhibits a roan pattern, a fascinating mix of colored and white hairs dispersed across their body. Interestingly, the face, legs, and tail typically display more solid coloring. Don’t let the seemingly coarse appearance of their fur fool you; it’s surprisingly smooth and soft to the touch. This softness is due to the way their fur grows – in patches and without a dense undercoat, making petting a Lykoi a truly unique tactile experience.
Dr. Antonio DeMarco, a DVM and chief medical officer at GoodVets, an expert who has encountered only a handful of Lykois in his extensive 15-year practice, explains the science behind their look. He notes that the “werewolf cat” appearance stems from hypotrichosis, a genetic condition leading to fewer hair follicles per hair follicle group compared to typical domestic cats. In simpler terms, this results in the characteristically thin and sparse hair of the Lykoi.
Similar to the Sphynx cat, another breed known for its minimal fur, Lykois benefit from a high-quality diet and occasional baths. These baths help manage and prevent oily skin, a common concern for cats with less fur. While Lykois may shed less than their fully coated counterparts during most of the year, be prepared for a dramatic shedding phase. Lykoi cats are known to molt, sometimes quite extensively, even becoming almost completely bald temporarily. This molting process is affectionately termed “wolfing out” by Lykoi enthusiasts and breeders, a testament to their werewolf-like transformation.
Understanding Lykoi Health and Potential Issues
The Lykoi breed is a relatively recent creation, officially established in 2011 by veterinarian Johnny Gobble. Demonstrating a commitment to breed health and well-being, Gobble meticulously established the breed by rigorously testing founding kittens from different litters. These tests included screening for infectious diseases, genetic disorders, and comprehensive cardiac examinations. He also collaborated with geneticists at the University of California, Davis, and dermatologists from the University of Tennessee to thoroughly investigate and rule out any breed-specific health predispositions.
Thanks to these responsible 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 prone to certain health conditions, in addition to the common ailments that can affect any domestic cat. Therefore, considering pet insurance for your Lykoi kitten could be a prudent decision, providing a safety net for unexpected veterinary costs.
Lymphocytic Mural Folliculitis: A Lykoi-Specific Condition?
Research, including a study conducted by the University of Missouri, has identified lymphocytic mural folliculitis as a condition linked to the reduced number of hair follicles in Lykoi cats’ skin. Interestingly, this condition is often associated with allergic reactions in cats with normal coats.
Cats suffering from 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. If you observe these or any other unusual skin abnormalities in your Lykoi, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and to determine the underlying cause of these symptoms.
Dental Disease: A Common Feline Problem
Like all cats, Lykois are susceptible to dental disease. This widespread issue can lead to a range of problems, from bad breath and oral pain to tooth loss if left unaddressed. The most effective preventative measures include regular tooth brushing at home and scheduling routine veterinary dental checkups. Maintaining good oral hygiene is paramount to your Lykoi’s overall health and well-being.
Nutritional Guidelines for Your Lykoi “Werewolf Cat”
Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining the health and vitality of your Lykoi cat or kitten. When choosing cat food, ensure it meets the nutritional guidelines established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for their specific life stage. Lykoi kittens have different nutritional needs than adult cats and should be fed food specifically formulated for kittens to support their growth and development. Typically, around 1 year of age, kittens can transition to adult cat food formulas.
Feeding Methods for Lykois
When it comes to feeding, Lykoi kittens can be either free-fed, meaning food is available to them throughout the day, or fed scheduled meals multiple times a day. Adult Lykois thrive on smaller, portion-controlled meals offered at least twice daily.
If your Lykoi tends to eat too quickly, or if you’re looking to add an element of enrichment to their mealtimes, consider using food puzzles, lick mats, or slow feeders. These tools can help slow down eating, prevent digestive upset, and provide mental stimulation during feeding.
Portion Control: How Much to Feed a Lykoi
Kittens, with their rapid growth and high energy levels, require multiple meals of high-quality kitten food each day. Adult cats, on the other hand, are prone to weight gain and obesity if their calorie intake isn’t carefully managed.
Consult with your veterinarian to determine your adult Lykoi’s ideal weight, considering their lifestyle and any underlying health conditions. Your vet can provide personalized recommendations on the appropriate daily calorie intake to maintain a healthy weight for your Lykoi.
Nutritional Supplements: Are They Necessary?
Generally, as long as your Lykoi is fed a complete and balanced cat or kitten food that meets AAFCO guidelines, supplemental vitamins or minerals are usually unnecessary.
However, in some cases, your veterinarian might recommend a diet enriched with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These beneficial fats can contribute to healthier skin, which is particularly relevant for Lykois due to their unique coat. Additionally, your vet may prescribe specific supplements if your Lykoi develops any health issues that require targeted nutritional support.
Unveiling the Lykoi Personality: Behavior and Training Insights
Lykoi Temperament: Playful Hunters with Affectionate Hearts
While Lykoi cats are known for being friendly and affectionate with their human families, don’t be surprised if they exhibit a playful, stalking, and pouncing behavior, even around corners! Their lineage traces back to feral cat populations, contributing to a strong prey drive that remains even in domesticated Lykois. This inherent prey drive means that households with very small or timid pets might not be the ideal environment for a spirited Lykoi.
Lykoi Behavior: Active and Inquisitive Companions
Lykois are not averse to a cozy lap cuddle, especially on cooler days, as their sparse fur can make them feel the chill. However, they are more often found actively engaged in their surroundings, exploring and investigating, always seeming to have their own important “missions” to accomplish.
Whether they are playfully batting at houseplants or stealthily stalking a favorite toy mouse, the intelligent and high-energy Lykoi is constantly seeking new activities and stimulation. They thrive in environments that offer opportunities for exploration and play.
Lykoi Training: Engaging Their Intelligent Minds
Lykoi cats, being intelligent and active, often enjoy learning new tricks. Training sessions can be a fun way to bond with your Lykoi and provide mental enrichment.
However, due to their strong prey drive and somewhat exposed skin, leash and harness training might not be the most suitable outdoor activity for Lykois. A safer and more appropriate option for outdoor enrichment is a shaded and secure catio. Indoors, positive reinforcement training using treats, toys, and praise can be highly effective in teaching Lykois tricks like fist bumps and recall.
Fun Activities to Keep Your Lykoi Entertained
To keep your Lykoi happy and stimulated, consider providing a variety of engaging activities:
- Installing a high-up cat tower or cat shelves to satisfy their climbing instincts.
- Allowing them to explore different areas of the house safely.
- Providing opportunities for stalking and pouncing play with toys or even with you (in a playful manner!).
- Engaging in interactive play sessions with wand toys.
- Playing fetch with toys, as some Lykois enjoy retrieving.
- Offering food puzzles to challenge their minds during mealtimes.
- Providing cozy spots for napping, like under bed covers.
- Allowing supervised sunbathing in safe, shaded areas.
- Ensuring they have access to their favorite comfortable cat bed.
Lykoi Grooming: Maintaining the “Werewolf” Look
Despite their minimal coat, Lykoi cats are not low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They require regular brushing, similar to most other cat breeds, to keep their coat and skin healthy. Their skin, in particular, needs consistent attention.
Skin Care Essentials for Lykois
To maintain your Lykoi’s distinctive wolf-like appearance and skin health, occasional baths are necessary. Bathing helps prevent the buildup of dirt and oils on their partially exposed skin. Use a cat-specific shampoo that is gentle, free of harsh fragrances, and formulated to avoid drying out their skin.
However, avoid over-bathing your Lykoi, as too-frequent baths can lead to skin dryness, flakiness, and irritation. Finding the right bathing balance is key.
As Dr. DeMarco emphasizes, cats, especially those with thinner coats like Lykois, are susceptible to sunburn. It’s best to keep Lykoi cats indoors or provide access to a shaded catio for outdoor time.
If you do take your Lykoi outside on a harness or if they enjoy sunbathing indoors by a window, protect their skin from harmful UV rays. Consider dressing them in UV-blocking shirts or applying pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas. You can also apply UV-blocking film to your windows to further reduce sun exposure indoors.
Coat Care for a Sparse Coat
Even with their thin coat and lack of undercoat, Lykoi cats do shed. In fact, they are known to molt their coat, or “wolf out,” in varying degrees.
The amount of shedding, the areas of the body that molt, and the frequency of molting can vary significantly between individual Lykoi cats. Atreyukatz Cattery notes that some Lykois may molt their entire coat, except for a charming patch of hair on their head resembling a mohawk! Some may become almost completely bald during molting, while others experience very minimal shedding.
To manage regular shedding or molting and minimize hairballs, matting, and loose fur around your home, brush your Lykoi a few times a week. Regular brushing helps remove dead hair and keeps their unique coat looking its best.
Eye and Ear Care: Routine Checks
While Lykoi eyes typically don’t require special care, monitor them for any changes, such as excessive or colored discharge. If you notice any abnormalities, consult your veterinarian to rule out potential infections or other underlying issues.
Due to the sparse fur around their ears, Lykois can accumulate dirt, wax, or oil in their ears. If you notice their ears appear dirty, gently clean them as needed using a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution for cats.
Considerations for Prospective Lykoi Owners
The ideal home for a Lykoi cat is one that appreciates an active, playful, and somewhat adventurous feline companion. This breed thrives on interaction and stimulation. Prospective owners should be prepared for their Lykoi’s unique grooming needs, including occasional baths with gentle shampoo, and understand that molting, even dramatic “wolfing out,” is a normal part of the breed’s characteristics.
While their friendly and affectionate nature makes them suitable for many households, families with very young children or very small, timid pets should be mindful of the Lykoi’s strong prey drive. Providing daily play and ample mental stimulation are essential to ensure these intelligent and inquisitive “werewolf cats” remain happy and well-adjusted companions.
Lykoi FAQs: Addressing Common Questions
Why are Lykoi Cats Called “Wolf Cats” or “Werewolf Cats?”
The name “Lykoi” originates from the Greek word “lycos” or “lycus” for wolf, a fitting tribute to their striking and somewhat wild appearance. Lykoi cats’ partially hairless bodies, roan coat pattern, and sparse fur that grows in patches without an undercoat combine to create a resemblance to a miniature werewolf. Furthermore, the breed’s characteristic molting, termed “wolfing out,” further reinforces this association.
Are Lykoi Cats High-Maintenance Pets?
Lykoi cats do require specific care, particularly for their coat and skin. While they may lack a full, dense coat, they still need regular brushing, ideally daily to weekly, to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Their skin also needs regular monitoring for signs of dryness, irritation, and potential sunburn. Occasional baths are also necessary to maintain skin health.
What is the Average Cost of a Lykoi Cat?
The price of a Lykoi cat typically starts around $1,000. The cost can vary depending on breeder reputation, lineage, and coat quality.
WRITTEN BY
Janelle Leeson
Freelance Writer
