partly coated roan coat of guard hairs only, no undercoat
A lean, muscular, medium cat with a wedge-shaped head, large walnut-shaped eyes and tall ears. The coat is made only of guard hairs, mixing pure white and coloured hairs in a roan, salt-and-pepper effect. Coverage varies from almost bare to nearly full, and the areas around the eyes, nose and muzzle stay hairless, forming a 'mask' that gives the breed its werewolf look. Despite appearances the coat feels soft and silky.231
Coloursblack roan (most common, and the TICA championship colour)other base colours with roaning accepted by CFAabout 50% roaning is considered ideal by CFA231
Personality what they are like
Lively, curious and loyal. A Lykoi can be cautious at first in new situations but soon warms to new people and pets. It loves attention, often prefers a game of stalk-and-pounce to a cuddle, and chats with a wide range of chirps, trills and meows without being overly loud.231
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. Plenty of interactive play that lets it hunt and stalk; many enjoy fetch and puzzle-style games but can also amuse themselves with toys.32
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Little brushing is needed, but the skin, ears and toes can get oily, so occasional baths with a cat-safe shampoo, regular ear cleaning, nail trims and tooth brushing are part of routine care. Shedding is light except during the breed's natural moulting cycles.23
Home where they are happiest
Best kept in a warm indoor home, since there is no undercoat. Limit strong sunbathing; a tall scratching post is recommended.23
Food basics what goes in the bowl
An obligate carnivore that needs a high-protein diet. The TICA breed page advises portioned meals rather than free-feeding, with fresh water daily.3
Company who they like around
Thrives on human interaction and attention, and generally gets along with other pets once introduced.23
The story where it all began
Two unrelated litters of partly hairless, roan-coated kittens turned up in Virginia in 2010 and Tennessee in 2011. Johnny and Brittney Gobble and Patti Thomas started the breed, and the first planned Lykoi kitten, Daciana, was born on 14 September 2011. Outcrossing to domestic cats widened the gene pool, and the breed has since reached championship status with TICA (2017) and CFA (2023).123
I woke up before the sun, ready to pounce on my human's toes under the blanket. They groaned, but I knew they secretly loved my morning energy. After a quick breakfast, I stalked a toy mouse, my tail flicking with excitement. I love the chase! My human tried to work, but I kept hopping onto the desk, demanding attention. I chirped at them, then dashed off to explore the bookshelf. In the afternoon, I found a sunbeam and dozed, dreaming of hunting. When evening came, I did my happy dance as my human played fetch with me. I'm a wild little wolf at heart, but I'm their loyal companion.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
TICA
Registration 2012; championship status May 2017 (black roan is the colour accepted for championship)1
CFA
Accepted for registration 2018; championship status 20232
FIFe
Preliminary recognised breed in Category 4 (code LYO)4
A typical home-care rhythm for a Lykoi. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
BathSkin oils build up without fur to absorb themevery 2 weeks
Ear checkClean waxy ears gentlyevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Lykoi tip
Lykoi cats are very food-oriented and can wolf down meals, so use a slow feeder to prevent gulping and stick to a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet to support their obligate carnivore needs. Because their sparse coat can make skin sensitive, treats with omega fatty acids may help, but always check with your vet first.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Lykoi, and at what times?
Your Lykoi needs portioned meals rather than free-feeding, with fresh water daily. The exact times can vary, so ask your vet or a good breeder for a schedule that suits your cat.3
What should a Lykoi eat, and which foods are dangerous?
As an obligate carnivore, your Lykoi needs a high-protein diet. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA.35
Does a Lykoi need baths?
Yes, occasional baths with a cat-safe shampoo are needed because skin oils build up without fur to absorb them. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every two weeks.23Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Lykoi need brushing?
Very little brushing is needed for this breed, as it has only guard hairs and no undercoat. Focus more on occasional baths and routine ear and nail care.23
How do I trim a Lykoi's claws, and how often?
Trim your Lykoi's nails gently, and Furry Diary's plan suggests doing this every 21 days. For a calm start, trim no more than two claws per session, as general guidance advises.236Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Lykoi need?
Your Lykoi has high activity needs and loves interactive play like fetch and puzzle games. Furry Diary recommends daily play sessions to keep it happy and engaged.23Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Lykoi's teeth and ears?
Clean your Lykoi's ears weekly to remove wax, and brush its teeth daily for best dental health. Furry Diary's plan includes ear checks every seven days and tooth brushing every two days.23Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Lykoi live?
Lifespan varies, but Furry Diary notes that senior years usually start around age 11. For a more precise estimate, ask your vet. Pet Wiki plan
Is a Lykoi good with children and other pets?
Yes, once properly introduced, your Lykoi generally gets along well with children and other pets. It is lively and curious, warming up after an initial cautious period.23
Can a Lykoi be left alone?
Your Lykoi thrives on human interaction and attention, so it may not enjoy being left alone for long periods. Provide plenty of toys and enrichment to keep it amused when you're away.23
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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