Description: Lykoi
The Lykoi, also known as the werewolf cat, is a unique and relatively new breed of cat distinguished by its lack of undercoat and patchy coat, which resembles the appearance of a werewolf — hence its name. The breed was first recognized in 2011, originating from domestic shorthair cats that naturally mutated. Lykois are known for their playful and intelligent nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and exhibit a keen hunting instinct. Despite their wild appearance, Lykois are affectionate and friendly, making them excellent companions. This breed is still quite rare, and its intriguing appearance and lovable personality continue to gain attention among cat enthusiasts worldwide.
Properties
The Lykoi, also known as the 'werewolf cat,' is a natural mutation from the domestic shorthair that has the appearance of a werewolf. This unique breed has been drawing attention both for its distinctive look and its intriguing personality. The Lykoi coat is partially missing, giving it a sparse, patchy appearance. This partial hairlessness is due to a gene that inhibits full hair growth and makes the coat feel like a soft suede. Their lack of a full coat also means that they have very little undercoat, which is what typically causes allergies in humans, making them somewhat hypoallergenic.
The color of their coat is usually black and white, which gives them the eerie, yet fascinating look of a classic movie werewolf. The Lykoi's lack the typical feline fur around the eyes, nose, ears, and muzzle, adding to their werewolf-like appearance. This breed can shed or even go almost completely bald over large portions of their body at various times of the year.
In terms of personality, Lykois are known for their exceptional intelligence and playful behavior. They exhibit a strong hunting drive, which means they are always on the lookout for anything that moves, making them excellent mousers. Despite their wild appearance, they are incredibly loving and loyal to their families. They tend to show a great deal of affection and are known to follow their owners around the house to stay in close company.
Lykois are also known for their good health, although they do have some genetic predispositions that prospective owners should be aware of. Since the breed is relatively new, breeders are still working to understand their complete health profile. It's important for Lykoi cats to have regular veterinary check-ups to ensure they remain healthy.
This breed is quite rare and was only recognized recently, which can make finding one a bit of a challenge. However, the uniqueness of their appearance combined with their amiable personality traits make them highly coveted by cat enthusiasts around the world. If you are looking for a cat that stands out in the crowd, the Lykoi might just be the perfect breed for you. Their loyal, playful nature makes them an ideal companion, especially in homes without other pets, where they can receive plenty of attention.
Appearance
The Lykoi, also known as the 'werewolf cat,' is a remarkable and distinctive breed that has captured the attention of many due to its unique appearance. The Lykoi's most defining characteristic is its lack of fur in some parts of its body, which creates a striking, werewolf-like look. The coat that they do have is generally coarse; it can be sparse and patchy, contributing further to their unconventional appearance.
The Lykoi's coloration is typically roan, a mixture of colored and white hairs, with black roan being the most common. This gives them an eerie, grizzled look that is unlike any other cat breed. Their lack of fur around the eyes, nose, and muzzle, alongside their wedge-shaped heads and slanted almond-shaped eyes, enhances their lupine resemblance. This unusual feature is the result of a natural mutation, and it affects the quality and type of fur, making it appear moth-eaten and sparse.
Physically, Lykois are medium-sized cats with a muscular build. They exhibit strong and agile bodies, capable of impressive feats of athleticism. The breed often shows a high level of activity and enjoys engaging in playful behaviors, often exhibiting a hunter’s instincts. Despite their wild appearance, they are known for their friendly and sociable nature when interacting with humans and other animals.
The Lykoi are partial hairless cats, and this trait can make them sensitive to extreme weather conditions; they may require protection in both very hot and cold environments. It’s also worth noting that their unique coat requires specific grooming needs. Unlike fully hairless cats, Lykois do shed, and their coat can undergo significant changes throughout their lives, including periods of almost complete hairlessness.
Importantly, the Lykoi breed is healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to specific health issues. By ensuring you get a Lykoi from a reputable breeder who uses genetic testing, potential owners can be informed about the health of their kitten. Overall, the Lykoi is an endearing breed for those who admire its wolf-like aesthetics and affectionate, playful companions.
History
The Lykoi, also known as the 'werewolf cat', is a breed distinguished by its unique appearance that resembles that of a werewolf. This appearance results from a natural mutation in a domestic shorthair. The breed's development began with two unrelated litters of kittens in 2010, identified by Patti Thomas and Johnny Gobble, who were intrigued by their unusual look. The kittens exhibited sparse hair and the signature partially hairless, roan coat that has come to define the breed.
The Gobbles, along with Brittney Gobble and other collaborators, began an extensive breeding program to establish and promote the Lykoi as a recognized breed. Selective breeding was carefully carried out to ensure that the hair coat patterns were not due to disease or a genetic disorder but were indeed due to a natural mutation. This particular gene is recessive, meaning that it requires two copies for the physical traits to be expressed. The breed name, 'Lykoi', is derived from the Greek word for wolf, likening the cats to mythological werewolves not just in appearance but also in some of their behavioral characteristics.
Peering into the genetics, DNA tests confirmed that the mutation was distinct and not related to any other hairless cat breeds like the Sphynx or the Devon Rex, establishing the Lykoi as genuinely unique. As the breed was developed, those leading the program focused on health, ensuring it was free from diseases commonly associated with other hairless breeds.
Official recognition for the Lykoi began with The International Cat Association (TICA) registering them as a new breed in 2011, and they achieved Championship status in 2017. Breed recognition has helped with ensuring responsible breeding practices and increasing their popularity among cat enthusiasts. The breed’s distinct look and enchanting personality have enthralled many, leading to a gradual but steady increase in their numbers globally. Today, while still relatively rare, the Lykoi has established a firm fanbase in the world of feline enthusiasts, celebrated for its eerie beauty and affectionate, playful character.