Lykoi vs American Bobtail - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Bobtailed cats have a naturally shortened tail due to natural genetic mutation. The cat’s original appearance genetics were modified so as to bring about an improved strain that comes in all colors and coat types.

The cat descended from a short-tailed kitten, Yodi. His kittens also had a short tail. Two women selectively bred the cats to be large and strong with a wild look but with a pleasant nature.

The cats used in the development of the breed were domestic shorthairs and longhairs. They are now pedigreed cats without tails.

In 1989, the International Cat Association accepted the American Bobtail into its new breed category, giving it full recognition in 2002. They were accepted for registration by the Cat Fanciers’ Association in 2000. This is the world's biggest registry of pedigreed cats.

These cats were first discovered in 2010 in Virginia. It was Patti Thomas who named the breed Lykoi.

It was in 2012 that the cat breed went before the International Cat Association and is now recognized as a Championship Breed.

There is also work being done to expand the cat’s breeding program. It’s a naturally occurring gene in the feral cat population. There are still Lykoi cats born to the feral cat population.

The American Bobtail is a cat that came about in the 1960s. It is well know as the cat with a bobbed tail. It’s not as vocal as many other cat breeds. It’s not a slender cat but is sturdy and and strong weighing between 3 and 7kg. Their double coats can be short- or long-haired. The coat comes in different patterns and colors, including orange, cream, black, brown, chocolate etc with a shaggy texture. He sheds quite a bit. The body of the American Bobtail is faily long. Its ears are medium-sized and wide-based with rounded tips, the eyes are almond shape. The eyes can be gold, yellow, green or blue. What is interesting is that the hind legs are much longer than the fore legs, and the feet are round.

Tmperament:

Bobtails are friendly cats, enjoying being in the company of their human family as well as with strangers. They are loving and affectionate to the entire family as opposed to just one person.

They’re quiet cats but will chirp when happy and excited. They get on well with all members of their human family and that includes children and the dogs.

They’re intelligent cats too and they can be taught to walk on a leash and to also perform some tricks. There are some people who say that their Bobtails act more like dogs than cats. These cats are sensitive and can sense when their owners are happy or sad and will come and sit with you when you're feeling sad and alone.

The Lykoi varies quite a bit in looks and you get some that are completely covered in hair and some that are actually partially hairless. Strangely, they are born with quite a lot of black fur.

The cat has a solid black roan coat with no undercoat. Even though the cat is partially hairless, it molts a couple of times each year.

People are inclined to think that the little bit of hair would be wiry, when in fact it is soft and silky. It's just that it looks like bristles, but is actually not. People are always surprised by the coat's softness.

The Lykoi has a lean muscular body with large ears and eyes. He is a medium-sized cat and can weigh between 4 to 6kg.

Temperament:

The Lykoi is a friendly, people-oriented cat that is affectionate towards its human owners. This is also a playful cat breed and he is also intelligent and inquisitive.

The Lykoi is fond of his human family and makes a wonderful companion.

Many people want a dog as a pet but aren’t able to keep one and then the American Bobtail becomes the ideal alternative. These cats aren’t known for their solitary personalities like the many other cats there are and they genuinely love to spend time with their human family. Some will even behave like a dog and be there to meet you at the door when you arrive home.

He is a fairly large, amicable cat and is affectionate and adaptable to your lifestyle. He enjoys all kinds of lifestyles and loves to curl up next to you on your travels, being the perfect road trip companion.

The American Bobtail is a therapeutic cat and is sensitive to the moods of its human family. He gets on well with children and other pets in the family and just wants to be a family member.

By bringing an American Bobtail into your home and your heart, you’ll have discovered the most wonderful feline companion there is.

People who have owned the Lykoi say that they make a remarkable and devoted pet. They want a lot of attention and they’re willing to give attention as well.

They’re social cats and want to spend time with their human companions. A cat that doesn’t receive the love and care it needs can become heartbroken and sick.

If you have one of these cats and your life has changed so that you can’t give it the attention it craves, at least provide it with a feline companion.

Cats aren’t all the aloof creatures they’re made out to be and your Lykoi is capable of making you a splendid companion.

When you buy a kitten from a breeder, always do research on the breeder so as to avoid a host of health issues down the line.

Apart from the typical cat health problems, the Bobtail is a healthy breed of cat. With proper care from you at home as well as veterinary care, these interesting looking cats can live up to anything between 12 and 20 years.

This cat is vulnerable to being cold and it should essentially be an indoor cat. If your Lykoi cat escapes, it can’t possibly keep warm on its own.

The Lykoi cat has not shown any specific health problems but being hairless, it is vulnerable to respiratory issues. Eye discharge as well as perpetual sneezing are characteristics of a cat with Feline Upper Respiratory Disease.

The cat’s mouth, sinuses, nasal passages, and upper airway are all affected. Your cat will need to get to the vet for a diagnosis and medical treatment. There are vaccines to prevent feline upper respiratory disease.

Any cat can develop this disease and your cat may have trouble breathing.

Keep a close eye on your cat’s weight.

Keep the litter box of your Bobtail scrupulously clean.

Your American Bobtail needs the best quality food there is full of vitamins and minerals if he is to remain healthy. The cat’s diet will depend a lot on his activity levels and general health, but it should always be high protein food. Your vet will always help you with some guidelines on feeding your cat.

Every cat needs exercise, and even though these cats aren’t as energetic as other cats, they are active indoors and out and are also playful. You will need to provide it with some puzzle toys and a climbing tree to keep him mentally and physically active.

Brush his medium-length fur twice a week to keep it shiny and silky.

Trim his nails carefully and check his eyes and inside his ears for abnormal discharges.

Vaccinate your cat to keep it protected from life-threatening cat diseases and take him to the vet immediately you suspect something is wrong.

With the Lykoi’s lack of a coat, it isn’t going to require too much grooming. However, you have to keep a watch on this cat as without hair, he is vulnerable to sunburn and to getting cold.

The cat has oily skin and it’s one cat breed that will need a bath occasionally. Some people recommend it once a week. Use warm water and a special pet shampoo recommended by your vet. Every trace of shampoo will need to be washed off to avoid the skin becoming irritated.

Provide your cat with food and water bowls, bedding, litter box, collar, grooming accessories and toys.

The Lykoi will require his nails being clipped.

Your Lykoi will require a nice warm, soft bed to rest and sleep in.

Cat food is a huge, important decision for any cat, as their very health depends on it. Commercially manufactured cat foods are available as wet and dry. Make sure you always get your cat food from a reliable source.

Some people believe in offering their cat both wet and dry options. Whatever you decide for your cat, remember that it needs to be at least 70% protein as every cat is a carnivore and requires a diet rich in protein.

If in any doubt, rather speak to your veterinarian and ensure that your Lykoi is getting the best food there is to promote good health. Always make sure that your cat has access to fresh cool water night and day.