Lykoi

Key Visual Markers

• Roan coat made entirely of guard hairs with no undercoat, white hairs diffusely mixed into dark hairs for a salt-and-pepper look. The ideal roan is 50 percent.
• Hairless face mask: no hair around the eyes, nose, muzzle, and chin, ideally forming a clover-shaped pattern. This is what gives the werewolf look.
• Sparse hair on the legs, feet, and back of the ears. The coat molts, so coverage swings from almost fully coated to nearly naked over the year.
• Modified wedge head, slightly longer than wide, with a rounded forehead and a medium-length muzzle with a whisker break.
• Large walnut-shaped eyes slanting upward, with hairless rims. Tall ears, open at the base with rounded tips, sit high on the head.
• Lean, muscular body with medium boning. The tail is shorter than the body and tapers to a point. Skin is pink and darkens with sun exposure.

Temperament & Traits

• Active and curious, more likely to stalk a toy than cuddle, but insists on human attention and interaction
• Loyal once settled, forms strong bonds with people and other pets
• Expressive voice: chirps, trills, purrs, and meows, but not excessive unless it feels neglected
• Patient hunter at play, watches toys and people before pouncing
• Needs warmth: the sparse coat offers little insulation, so it wants sweaters, blankets, and warm rooms

Health Notes

• Lymphocytic mural folliculitis. The one condition associated with the Lykoi coat: an immune response around hair follicles that causes hair loss, itching, and crusted skin. Treatable with antibiotics, steroids, and topical therapy.
• Sunburn and skin cancer risk. Thin hair coverage leaves skin exposed; CFA advises limiting sun exposure and using pet-safe sunscreen, because sunburn raises the risk of squamous cell carcinoma.
• Skin infections and allergies. With less hair barrier, allergens reach the skin more easily, so itchy or crusted skin warrants a vet visit.
• Cold intolerance. No undercoat means poor insulation; keep the home warm and offer clothing and blankets.
• Molting and ingrown hairs. The coat sheds in cycles and ingrown hairs can appear; CFA lists this as a natural feature to watch rather than an illness.

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a veterinarian for health advice specific to your cat.