Lykoi

The Lykoi: a partially or entirely hairless cat. With this remarkable appearance, it also looks a bit like a wolf; that is where it gets its name. Lykoi derives from the Greek word “Lykos”, meaning wolf. This cat breed originated from a natural mutation of short-haired domestic cats. Lykoi usually has a coat of firm white and black hair, a bit greyish. They are amiable and social cats.

Breed description Lykoi

Breed origin: United States and Italy

The Lykoi originated in Virginia, Tennessee. The breed is known for its partial hairlessness. People thought this was unique, and a further breeding programme was set up. The appearance originated from a natural mutation, meaning a sudden change occurred in the cat’s hereditary material.

Character

The Lykoi is friendly and social, loves to be petted, and gives a lot of love. They can hunt well and are brilliant animals. Humans often associate this breed with a (werewolf) wolf, mainly because of its unique fur and mask due to little hair around the eyes, snout and mouth.

Physical characteristics Lykoi

Colour

The colour of a Lykoi is a combination of solid white and black hairs, actually a bit greyish. This combination can vary from entirely black to fully white. This pattern is called Roan and, among cats, occurs only among Lykoi.

Body, legs and tail

The Lykoi has a solidly built body and possesses excellent agility. The legs and feet are usually hairy. The tail can also be furry, but this is not always the case; usually, a little more at the top compared to the end.

Head, ears and eyes

Its ears and nose feel like smooth, pleated animal skin. Around the eyes, snout and mouth, the Lykoi is partial to completely bald, making it look like the cat is wearing a mask. The head is small to medium-sized with large pointy ears on top. The eyes are almond-shaped and often yellowish in colour.

Coat

A Lykoi’s fur is remarkable, somewhat similar to a possum’s. It’s black and white, which often creates a kind of grey colouration. The coat pattern is called Roan. The skin under the fur is pink but turns a little darker due to sunlight. At an adult age, the Lykoi will start shedding. The hairs will then grow back later, depending on the season. Lykois kittens are born with plain black coats. Later, at around 2-4 weeks of age, Lykoi characteristics and colour patterns become more visible.