Rare breeds
Lykoi: personality, life span and weight
The Lykoi is a new breed nicknamed the "wolf cat" because its sparse coat and bare face around the eyes and nose recall a werewolf. The name means wolf in Greek.
- Hunting instinct
- Clever
- Loyal to family
Lykoi at a glance
- Adult weight
- 2.5–5 kg
- Life span
- 12–15 years
- Shedding
- heavy
- Activity
- active
- Origin
- United States (found around 2010 as a natural mutation in domestic cats)
- Coat
- Sparse "roan" coat of mixed black and white hairs, with almost no hair around the eyes, nose and mouth
Lykoi personality
Serious about hunting games, and clever. It watches strangers for a while before approaching, but shows strong attachment to its family.
Coat care and daily care
The coat is sparse, but it can shed heavily all at once during a moult and then grow back. Exposed skin is sensitive to sun and cold and can become oily, so wipe it regularly. Look after the ears and the skin around the claws as well.
Health problems Lykoi keepers should know
- A new breed with limited dataIts history is short, so long-term health data is scarce. Use regular check-ups to establish a baseline.
- Skin careWatch for sunburn, dryness and oiliness.
These are problems reported relatively often in the breed. It does not mean every cat will have them. If a symptom worries you, see a vet.
Real Lykoi photos from cat keepers
Photo tip The "mask" on the face and the golden eyes are the highlight. A front-on shot in gentle light brings out its unusual look.
There are no public records yet. Your cat could be the first.
Add my cat and start a diaryLykoi questions and answers
- How long do Lykoi cats live?
- An indoor Lykoi typically lives about 12–15 years. Weight control, regular check-ups and indoor living all make a difference.
- How much does an adult Lykoi weigh?
- A fully grown Lykoi usually weighs 2.5–5 kg. Males tend to be larger than females, and a body shape where the ribs can be felt lightly matters more than the number.
- Do Lykoi cats shed a lot?
- Shedding is heavy. Sparse "roan" coat of mixed black and white hairs, with almost no hair around the eyes, nose and mouth. The coat is sparse, but it can shed heavily all at once during a moult and then grow back. Exposed skin is sensitive to sun and cold and can become oily, so wipe it regularly. Look after the ears and the skin around the claws as well.
- What is the Lykoi personality like?
- Serious about hunting games, and clever. It watches strangers for a while before approaching, but shows strong attachment to its family.