The name Lykoi comes from the Greek word lykos, meaning “wolf.”
The Lykoi is a relatively modern domestic cat breed with a sparse, partly hairless-looking coat and a facial appearance often compared with that of a werewolf. Its name reflects this visual impression rather than ancestry from any wild wolf species.
Lykoi cats developed from naturally occurring mutations in domestic cats. Breeders began establishing the type in the United States during the early 21st century, using carefully selected domestic cats and health testing. The breed’s unusual coat results from hair follicles that do not produce a normal full coat.
Despite its wild-looking appearance, the Lykoi is a domestic cat. It is not a hybrid of a wolf, dog, or wild feline. Coat coverage can vary, and some individuals may molt heavily or appear nearly hairless for periods of time.