Lykoi Cat: The Werewolf Cat's Unusual Coat, Temperament and Care

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

In 2010, a veterinarian in Tennessee and a breeder in Virginia noticed kittens with an odd, wolf-like appearance in two separate litters of domestic shorthair cats. Their coats were thin and roan, with bare patches around the eyes, nose and muzzle. DNA testing showed that they were not a form of Sphynx or Devon Rex, but a natural mutation, and the Lykoi, a breed with a strikingly wild look, was born.

History

The founders worked with veterinary scientists to confirm that the cats were healthy and that the coat was caused by a unique mutation in domestic cats. A program of careful breeding followed, and the Lykoi was recognized by cat associations in the following years. The name comes from the Greek word for wolf, and the breed is nicknamed the werewolf cat. Because it is still new, the gene pool is small, and breeders are cautious. See the Sphynx and Devon Rex profiles for other breeds with unusual coats.

Appearance

The Lykoi's roan coat is a mix of white and black hairs, giving a silver-gray, salt-and-pepper effect. The hair is sparse, and in many cats it is absent around the eyes, nose, muzzle and behind the ears, which gives them a masked, wolfish face. The coat varies a lot from cat to cat, and some have fuller coats than others. Lykoi go through molting periods in which they may lose most of their coat, then regrow it.

The body is medium-sized and lean, with long legs and a sleek frame. The eyes are golden, and the skin may feel slightly warm and oily to the touch. Adults weigh about six to twelve pounds.

Personality

Beneath its wild looks, the Lykoi is a friendly, playful and loyal cat. Many are described as dog-like: they follow their people, greet visitors and enjoy games of fetch. They are intelligent and curious, and they enjoy puzzle toys and learning tricks. They have a strong hunting drive, and will stalk and pounce on toys, and on anything that moves.

Lykoi may be wary of strangers at first, but they warm up. They tend to get along with children and other pets, though small pets such as birds and rodents may be at risk. See how to introduce a new cat to your cat. They enjoy company, and may not like being alone for long periods. See leaving a cat alone.

Provide plenty of play and enrichment. See indoor cat enrichment ideas and how to choose a cat tree.

Coat and skin care

The sparse coat needs less brushing than a full coat, but the skin needs attention.

• Gentle brushing with a soft brush, about once a week.
• Occasional baths if the skin is oily, as with hairless breeds. See how to bathe a cat.
• Sun protection. Areas with little hair can burn. Keep your cat out of strong sun, and ask your vet about protection.
• Warmth. With less insulation, Lykoi may feel the cold. See winter safety for cats.
• Ear and eye care. With less hair around the eyes and ears, wax and debris may accumulate. See how to clean a cat's ears.
• Nails. Trim regularly, and clean nail folds.

Hair loss can look like skin disease. Your vet can tell the normal coat of a Lykoi apart from problems such as ringworm, allergies or mites. See ringworm in cats and cat skin allergies.

Health

Since the breed is new, long-term health data are limited. Reported concerns include:

• Skin and coat issues, such as irritation or infection of exposed skin.
• Dental problems. Some Lykoi have reported tooth and gum disease. See cat dental disease.
• Heart disease and other inherited conditions. Ask breeders about screening. See hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats.
• Hair loss from stress or illness. Keep an eye on the coat.

Responsible breeders health-test and are honest about unknowns.

Is it the right cat for you?

The Lykoi suits people who want an unusual, active, loyal cat and who are willing to learn about its skin and coat. It is not a good fit for owners who want a cat with a consistent, full coat or who cannot afford veterinary care. See cat pet insurance guide.

Finding a Lykoi

The breed is rare, and prices are high. Look for breeders registered with recognized associations, who share health records and let you meet the parents. See how to choose a kitten. Be cautious of sellers who market any cat with a thin coat as a Lykoi. A true Lykoi has a pedigree and the right pattern of roaning.

When to see a vet

See a vet if your Lykoi has scabs, redness, persistent itching or sudden extra hair loss. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.