THE SPOOKY LYKOI CAT: A RARE KITTY RESEMBLING A WEREWOLF
Introduction
While you may be in dire need of it — the Lykoi cat, also known as “wolf cat” or “werewolf cat,” that looks like hell and is getting viral online these days due to its peculiarity of resemblance to wolves. Many would consider its looks almost otherworldly, but the Lykoi breed is actually a natural mutation within the domestic shorthair cat. Though the breed is still quite new to the feline catechism, this interesting breed has quickly settled in both look and temperament at home with the lovers of the unusual. In this article we will dabble into the history of the Lykoi cat as a breed, their characteristics, and health features which make them one of the most interesting cat breeds.
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ORIGINS OF THE LYKOI CAT
The Lykoi cat was first discovered in 2010 in Tennessee, USA. A woefully unexceptional litter of domestic shorthair kittens sent veterinarians and breeders scratching their heads over the game pieces they seemed to make, writes Laborbile. Then, genetic testing for the appearance of natural mutations not caused by any disease came back positive, and feeders started to breed this new seem-to-be domestic cat.
They were accepted as a provisional new breed by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2011. Although the Lykoi is a relatively rare breed, it has been increasing in popularity because of its wolf appearance and personality.
LYKOI APPEARANCE: THE WEREWOLF LOOK
The Lykoi cat may best be described by its hobo-looking patchy-hairless coat; some say that it appears as though ‘werewolves’ crossed with other domestic cats. The breed name is “Lykoi,” which in actuality claims a Greek origin and translates to the word for the wolf of this resemblance in manner.
They can be several color-specific but the black roan coat that many lurchers have is part of what makes them appear like wolves. Other cats are mainly black and look lighter silver because of hairs which are white. Lykoi cats are less appealing because their coat can change their looks throughout life; they shed new hair, grow and even change color as time passes by.
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Individually, they look great in the wolfish dog style of eyes that are its large almond shape that colors yellow or green. This with triangular faces streaked in ultrasonic busts of prominent whiskers and sometimes thin fur around the muzzles, makes them look even more like escapees from a zoo. Lykoi is a medium-sized cat and noticeable muscle mass without being so heavy or bulking as to appear fat.
TEMPERAMENT AND PERSONALITY
Lykoi cats have a dubious reputation based on their physical appearance—but they are as gentle as can be. This playful and curious character of the Siamese cat is endearing to many a feline fan. These cats like to roam around the place and often expand through every nook and cranny of the house. While their curiosity can be quite overwhelming, they are actually pretty sweet when good humored. More so than in dogs, I find dogs, at least in my perspective, to be very obnoxious.
As well known, Lykoi cats are very intelligent animals. They have playful personalities and often engage with puzzles they are supposed to solve. At the same time, these animals are extremely energetic as well as quite warm-blooded and embrace their human family very much. Are Lykoi cats affectionate? — However, some have been documented to have peripheral levels of ownership personalities where they trail their humans around the house, cuddle, and head.
They love homes where they get chances in toy-based play, treat puzzle feeders, and fun sessions of interactive play. They also can be good with other pets, such as dogs, if socialized well.
HEALTH AND GROOMING
Most people are curious about the health of a Lykoi cat when seeing one for the first time. Most auspiciously, though, the Lykoi cat is a pretty healthy breed with an innate propensity to suffering major health anomalies. Of course, like any breed, the key to keeping them in great shape is by caring for them-regular vet check-ups and an adequately balanced diet.
Its coat is rather exclusive and demands a little special care. Partial hairlessness of the breed makes these cats rather sensitive to temperatures that are drastically high or low as compared to the fully furred cat. If it is cold, their owners must keep them warm and even provide some good bedding or an adjustable body warmer for winter.
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With sparse hair, similar to that of a feline, but likely less than the average feline, the skin could be more exposed and sometimes require regular bathing to ensure it remains oil-free. The Lykoi cat sheds more than any other breed of feline, so frequently brushing the cat with a soft-bristle brush should keep the coat in good order and help reduce shedding.
While not hypoallergenic, the rare coat of the Lykoi has opened up the breed to people who previously suffered from low-grade cat allergies on fewer reactions to the breed. Of course, full-blown allergy sufferers should still care for it since the breed still produces dander and may prove problematic for allergic people.
POPULAR CULTURE: LYKOI CATS
With the werewolf look, it is not surprising that the Lykoi cat features in several media and has been known to the world as mysterious and mystical. These features land them storm over the internet. More often than not, they feature in videos that eventually turn out to be viral and even memes. Some owners even put an outfit on it with themes to make it more of a legendary creature.
Also, the attention of the cat lover at exhibition and competition has been attracted by the breed. While being relatively rare, Lykoi cats have started to create a mark in competitive shows where their appearance often garners an audience and earns the cat awards.
Though Lykoi cats are utterly fascinating-they do not go with every home. With high energy and intelligence, there is a huge need for stimulation-both mentally and physically. A bored Lykoi is very bad, so owners should be prepared to go to some great lengths to ensure their cat is entertained.
Additionally, because the Lykoi is such a rare breed, the cost may be considerably high. In this respect, a breeder must guarantee that health and welfare for their kittens first come before obtaining profit. Due to it being this rare and popular as a breed, buyers are also going to have waiting lists.
Although described as pretty affectionate, some of these Lykoi cats are rather introverted. It would take them a little time to warm up towards a stranger, and they liked a more secluded atmosphere as well because it makes them feel safe. In such cases, their owners will find it much easier for them to be loyal and loving if they are considerate and patient.
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CONCLUSION
This kitty is truly unique, captivating, and one of the more popular breeds in very recent times because it has this eerie appearance as if like a werewolf and it loves to show that sweet love. For those who wanted a cat with a feral look but with a loving heart, the Lykoi would be the perfect fusion of the exotic and familiar. Although they require a bit more attention and care compared to other breeds, their playful nature and great attachment to their owners make them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a special feline companion. Whether someone appreciates its beauty or enjoys its personality, a Lykoi cat is indeed a wonderful addition to the world of household felines.
