Post by Joanna on Dec 24, 2015 20:18:25 GMT -5
'Werewolf Cats' Are All the Rage
There's a new cat to be obsessed with, and they're called Lykoi cats. These werewolf-esque beauties get their unique appearance from a natural mutation in a domestic shorthair that gives the felines werewolf features and prevents their growing a full coat of fur.
Tennessee-based veterinarian Johnny Gobble, his wife Brittney, and their colleague Patti Thomas, founded the breed after receiving a litter of kittens that were a mix of a black domestic short-hair with a natural mutation in the hair follicles. This resulted in no hair growth on their faces. Dermatologists at the University of Tennessee examined them for any skin abnormalities, but found no reason for the hair pattern. "Our cardiologist also performed cardiac scans to look for any structural problems with the hearts," Gobble told the Daily Mail. "In the end, we found that the cats are healthy and the hair pattern is not from any known disease or disorder."
According to the official breeding website, while Lykoi are cats that look like werewolves, they actually act like dogs.
Because the werecat is a new breed, there aren't that many available yet – there's a waiting list! So if you'd like a cat right away, check with an animal shelter.
Source: Tanya Edwards, Refinery29, October 31, 2015.
