Lykoi
United States
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 2.5–5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- curious
- loyal
- lively
- alert
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Lykoi
The Lykoi is sometimes called the werewolf cat because of its patchy, partly hairless coat, roan mix of black and white hairs and bare skin around the eyes and nose. The look comes from a natural mutation found in feral cats. It is a medium-sized cat, and the coat can moult heavily and change through the year.
Temperament
Lively, curious and loyal once trust is established. Lykois often have a hunting-style alertness and enjoy chasing toys. Some are wary of strangers at first, but they generally bond well with their family.
Play & activity
Moderate to high. Regular interactive play suits their prey drive.
Grooming
The sparse coat needs little brushing, but some cats moult almost entirely at times. Bare areas may need occasional cleaning to prevent oil build-up.
Care & wellbeing
Bare skin is prone to sunburn and chilling, so the Lykoi is best kept indoors or with shade and warmth. Research into the mutation found that the hair follicles are affected rather than the cats being unwell, but owners should still watch for skin irritation and see a vet if bald patches look inflamed or infected.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 3.8 kg adult- Water
- 152 ml–228 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 230 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Lykoi
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The breed originated in the United States around 2010 from unrelated feral cats with the same unusual coat. Founding breeders arranged veterinary and genetic examinations to rule out disease as the cause of the hair loss. TICA and later the CFA granted recognition.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Sun and cold sensitivity in bare areas
- Skin irritation or oily skin
- Limited long-term data as a young breed
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Veterinary skin and heart check, as practised by founding breeders
Not every Lykoi is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Lykoi right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Lykoi get?
Adult Lykois typically weigh around 2.5–5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Lykois live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Lykoi?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Lykoi need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Lykois affectionate?
Usually friendly, with a balance of company and independence. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Lykois shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Lykois good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Lykoi live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Lykois have?
The breed can be prone to sun and cold sensitivity in bare areas, skin irritation or oily skin, limited long-term data as a young breed. Not every Lykoi is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.