Ukrainian Levkoy

Also called Levkoy

Rare breedShort profile

From Ukraine, created around 2000 by Elena Biriukova from Donskoy and Scottish Fold crosses.1 2 3

At a glance the quick version

Sizemedium

sociable and friendly

playful and clever

distinctive folded ears

3 1 2

Coat and looks how to spot one

hairless or nearly hairless

A medium, long-bodied cat that looks both lean and muscular, with soft, stretchy skin that folds into wrinkles. Its large, high-set ears fold forward and down at the tips without touching the head, and the angular head with a stepped profile gives it a rather dog-like look.3 1

Coloursall colours and patterns (shown on the skin)2

Personality what they are like

Friendly, playful and bright, very keen on human company and usually easy-going with other pets. It can be quite vocal, especially around mealtimes.3 1 2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Energetic and playful; needs regular games and mental challenges to stay out of mischief.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

No brushing needed, but the bare skin needs gentle weekly care and protection from sun and cold.3 2

Home where they are happiest

An indoor cat; keep it warm and out of strong sun, with cosy beds and blankets.3 2

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Needs a complete, balanced cat food built around animal protein, with fresh water always available; portion treats so the cat stays trim.2

Company who they like around

Highly social with people and generally good with other animals.3 2

The story where it all began

Elena Biriukova developed the Levkoy in Ukraine from about 2000 by pairing Donskoy females with Scottish Fold males, later adding Oriental and non-pedigree cats. The look was settled by around 2004, and Ukrainian and Russian cat clubs recognised it from 2005.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It is named after the levkoy (stock) flower, whose bent leaves resemble its folded ears.2
2
Litters include both fold-eared and straight-eared kittens.3
3
Its head is described as a soft-edged pentagon.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed's name comes from the folded leaves of the Levkoy plant (also known as stock or gillyflower), which inspired the cat's distinctive folded ears.4

Name ideas for your new friend

BorysOksanaTarasIvanKvitkaMriyaSoniaPetroYaroslavHalyaDenysLubov

A day in the life told by an Ukrainian Levkoy

I wake up and stretch my long, naked body. My human is already up, and I meow a cheerful good morning. I follow them to the kitchen, my favorite place, especially at mealtimes. I'm very vocal about that. After eating, we play with a puzzle toy; I'm so smart, I figure it out quickly. Then I lounge on the warm windowsill, but not for long, I need attention. I chat with my human, then play with my furry sibling. In the evening, I cuddle on the sofa, purring loudly. My skin loves gentle rubs, and I bask in every moment of being adored.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

ICFA RUI (Ukraine): Recognised 2005, championship 20101
ICFA WCA (Russia): Recognised 2010, championship 20111
General: Recognised mainly in Russia and Ukraine; not accepted by the major international registries2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an Ukrainian Levkoy. 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

Cat-Friendly Pancakes

A simple, no-bake treat that is high in protein and low in fat, making it a suitable occasional reward for cats who gain weight easily.

You need

1 tin of tuna in water, no salt added
1/2 cup finely diced cooked chicken
1/2 cup pure sweet potato puree (no added sweeteners)

How

Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl.
Break the tuna into small bits with a fork.
Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
Slowly stir in the sweet potato puree until the mixture binds together, being careful not to make it too watery.
Shape the mixture into mini pancakes.
Serve to your cat as an occasional treat.

How much: Give small amounts occasionally, as treats should not exceed 10-15% of daily calorie allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Tuna Biscuits for Cats

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.

Recipe from PDSA

Tuna Catnip Biscuits

A vet-approved recipe from PDSA that uses simple ingredients to create a tasty, crunchy treat your cat will love.

You need

145g tuna chunks in spring water
120g plain flour
1 tablespoon dried catnip
1 egg

How

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
Drain the tuna and mix it with the flour, catnip and egg in a bowl until a dough forms.
Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Use a small cookie cutter to cut out biscuit shapes.
Place the biscuits on a greased baking tray and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
Allow to cool completely before serving.

How much: One biscuit equals 10% of your cat's recommended daily calories. Reduce their main meal by 10% on treat days.

Recipe from PDSA

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 Ukrainian Levkoy, and at what times?

Feeding frequency and times depend on your cat's age, weight and activity. Ask your vet for a tailored schedule.

What should an Ukrainian Levkoy eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a complete, balanced cat food built around animal protein, with fresh water always available. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic and xylitol; your vet can give you a full list.2 5

Does an Ukrainian Levkoy need baths?

Yes, Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every two weeks because skin oils build up without fur. Also protect their bare skin from sun and cold.3 2 Pet Wiki plan

How often does an Ukrainian Levkoy need brushing?

The Ukrainian Levkoy is hairless, so no brushing is needed. Instead, give their bare skin gentle weekly care.3 2

How do I trim an Ukrainian Levkoy's claws, and how often?

Furry Diary's plan suggests trimming claws every three weeks. Trim carefully, just the tip; if unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demo. Pet Wiki plan

How much play does an Ukrainian Levkoy need?

Your Levkoy is energetic and playful, so daily play and mental challenges are important to keep them happy and out of mischief.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an Ukrainian Levkoy's teeth and ears?

Furry Diary's plan suggests checking ears weekly and cleaning any wax gently. Brush teeth daily if possible, or at least every other day, to keep them healthy. Pet Wiki plan

How long does an Ukrainian Levkoy live?

Lifespan varies by individual health and care. Ask your vet for typical ranges for this breed.

Is an Ukrainian Levkoy good with children and other pets?

Yes, the Ukrainian Levkoy is friendly and usually easy-going with children and other pets, especially if socialised early.3 2

Can an Ukrainian Levkoy be left alone?

This breed is very social and keen on human company, so it may not enjoy long periods alone. Ask a good breeder or vet for advice on leaving them.3 2

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.