LYKOI CAT COST

HOW MUCH DOES A LYKOI CAT COST? 2024 PRICE GUIDE

The Lykoi cat is rather unique and a relatively new breed in the world of cats. It is often called the Werewolf or wolf cat. These cats with scarce hair represent a natural, rather than artificial, DNA mutation initially observed in the US feral population of cats back in 2010.1 Shortly after, the Lykoi attracted public attention, and in 2017 and 2023,

The International Cat Association and the Cat Fanciers’ Association granted this breed championship status as a pedigree breed. What is needed here are very famous cats with their appearance; for that matter, they are highly valued. Despite their look, they still require the same level of care as any other cat. Let’s discuss the cost of adopting a Lykoi to own this excellent cat breed.

A Lykoi may cost you from $100 to $3,000, depending on the seller, and its monthly costs could be from $195 to $800 or above, depending upon your cat’s requirements.

ONE-TIME COSTS OF BUYING A NEW LYKOI CAT:

Some things generally are one-time expenses that your Lykoi requires before you even take them home. First, look at the price of finding and acquiring your Lykoi.

NO FEE:

You are unlikely to get one of these pedigree cats with quirky looks for free. Their coat develops randomly because of the genetic mutation, which is rare and in high demand.

ADOPTION: $100–$400

Surprise, Lykoi’s are available in some shelters. Purebred cat breeders end up in shelters for many reasons, but be prepared for a pricy adoption fee of over $1,000 and a long list of other applicants.

BREEDER: $1,500–$3,000 OR MORE

Like cats, they are a rare breed, so probably most breeders will charge at least $1,000. Some, with unusual patterns or colors, run up to $3,000 or more. Of course, the price depends on the area, and maybe you will find some ex-breeder cats that are much cheaper.

A pedigree Lykoi kitten will always cost at least $1,000 if not more! Since “backyard” breeders generally fail to test their cats for health concerns, finding a reputable breeder is significant.

FIRST BUYING COST AND PROVISIONS: $250–$450

Once you have found and obtained your wolf cat, you must purchase everything they could need to get them through the first few months of their life with you. While the dog seems very expensive, especially for initial vet visits and medication, food, bowls and collars, beds, and litter boxes are a necessity! For most things, you can strive for the lower end of the spectrum; however, when you do, you might have to replace them more frequently.

HOW MUCH DOES A MONTH OF A LYKOI CAT COST?

As responsible parents to your feline friend, there are just some materials and services that we need to ensure our cat thrives. By budgeting for emergencies and planning for recurring needs, you can shave off emergency and surprise costs while giving your wolf cat the best care possible.

MEDICAL CARE: $20 TO OVER $100 A MONTH

To keep your Lykoi happy and healthy, you will need basic medical supplies, like nail clippers and flea treatments. Any cat requires a yearly checkup with the vet, which you should work into your budget. If your Lykoi has recurring health problems that need Veterinary attention, then you may see a high rise in monthly costs.

MEALS: $30–$150 A MONTH

It varies with the kind of food and substances one gives the Lykoi. Food for cats must meet the minimum requirements laid down by AAFCO for them to be healthy, so always check the nutritional information offered before purchasing from a brand.

While individualized, customized wet or raw food subscriptions can run upwards of $100 per month, large bags of dry food from the store can be as cheap as $30. Like many other breeds, the lykoi cat requires the same levels of taurine and protein as many other cats.

CLEANING: $10–$40 A MONTH

Lykoi’s sport patchy coats and, therefore, need frequent grooming! Because of the sensitivity of the oily hair, the Lykoi needs cleaning often to keep their skin, ears, and paws healthy and oil-free. Bathing your pet can be done to a certain extent, but there are many other ways to take good care of your cat’s skin and ears. Most Lykoi’s won’t require haircuts, but if their owners prefer not to groom them, a weekly visit to a professional groomer will keep their skin and coat in excellent condition. Medication and Veterinary Care

MONTHLY EXPENSE: $300

The cost of pharmaceuticals and veterinarian care will vary significantly among cats. Though Lykois do not have genetically based tendencies to illness, they still tend to become prone to most common cat maladies. Skin diseases, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, bladder issues, and dental diseases are common cat problems, and some, like diabetes, can become quite expensive to manage. Your Lykoi’s monthly healthcare expenses will ebb and flow with your health condition.

PET HEALTH INSURANCE: $60 A MONTH

In most cases, cat insurance tends to be less expensive than dog insurance. In addition, insurance policies are designed for breeds with predominant known health issues. You can decide not to insure your Lykoi, but we firmly advise against that because unexpected medical charges may indicate that you must draw out of pocket.

MAINTENANCE OF ENVIRONMENT: $50 TO $100 A MONTH

Everyone is aware that Lykoi acts in a “doggy” way. Scratching posts or cardboard scratchers should always be present with your Lykoi to satisfy this natural urge to scratch and not destroy your couch. They are energetic and curious creatures. The litter and the litter boxes can vary in price, too; the cheapest litter boxes come for around $10, but some of these automatic cleaners run as much as $50 a month to keep running!

1-Litter Box Liners $10 monthly

2-Deodorizing Granules or Spray $10 monthly

3-Cardboard Scratchers and Scratch posts Refills $20-$35 monthly

4-Litter $25-$40 monthly

ENTERTAINMENT: $20-$50 MONTHLY

Your Lykoi are very intelligent and active cats, so they need lots of excitement and enrichment to keep them happy and not too bored. You can space out the cost by buying a few toys for them every couple of months or signing up with one of the monthly subscription services that deliver all-new toys right to your doorstep.

Entertainment and toys can range quite vastly, with some cat owners splurging on the latest feline technology every month. Subscription boxes make an excellent middle ground for only $25 a month.

TOTAL MONTHLY COST OF LYKOI CAT OWNERSHIP: $195–$800+

Your monthly total for your Lykoi will vary from person to person. Some are happy with the bare essentials to keep them alive and well. Others play with toys from a specific manufacturer, are picky eaters whose food is costly, or have monthly health needs that include prescriptions!

LONG STORY SHORT:

While the actual purchase of a Lykoi cat is pricy and unique, their monthly expenses are relatively comparable to those of other breeds. One can afford to spend a little more on first-time items such as food bowls, collars, litter boxes, and beds but save on food and litter when possible by getting them in bulk. Contrasting with the expensive-sounding care, a Lykoi cat’s monthly costs are much lower than a large breed or even a rare dog.