Lykoi
The Enigmatic Werewolf Cat
The Lykoi, whose name means "wolves" in Greek (λύκοι), is a rare and captivating breed known for its partially hairless, roan-patterned coat and haunting, wolf-like appearance. Unlike other hairless or partially coated breeds, the Lykoi's unique look is not due to Sphynx or Rex mutations. This recessive gene, confirmed through extensive DNA testing, creates a patchy coat that can vary dramatically with age, hormonal changes, and seasons—adding to the breed’s mystical allure.
The first Lykoi kittens were discovered in 2010 by Patti Thomas, who, along with veterinarian Dr. Johnny Gobble, began health and genetic evaluations to ensure the trait was natural and not the result of disease. In 2011, two unrelated Lykoi-like cats were found in Tennessee, further supporting the breed’s legitimacy. That same year, the first intentional Lykoi-to-Lykoi breeding took place, confirming the genetic basis for their unique coat. Extensive outcrossing to black domestic shorthairs followed to preserve genetic diversity.
Today, Lykoi have been found in feral populations across Europe, North America, South Africa, and Australia. The breed is known not only for its dramatic appearance, but also for its playful, intelligent, and deeply bonded personality. The Lykoi was granted TICA Championship status in 2017, solidifying its place among recognized breeds while retaining its wild-hearted charm.
Transylvanian
The Mysterious Vampire Cat
With its haunting beauty and dark, smoky coat, the Transylvanian—often called the Vampire Cat—is an emerging breed known for the rare and mesmerizing Karpati pattern. This striking coat features lighter or white coloring on the extremities (ears, mask, tail, belly, and paws), with a darker black or blue coat and roaning (salt & pepper effect), giving the cat a misted or shadowed appearance that intensifies and darkens with maturity. The coat is lighter in kittens and often settles into a dramatic contrast, especially around the face, giving many Transylvanians their signature ghostly fade.
Originating in Eastern Europe in the feral cat population as a natural mutation, the breed draws both its name and mystique from the Carpathian region of Romania. While still in its early stages of development, the Transylvanian has garnered attention for its unique appearance, muscular build, and keen, observant nature. Unlike breeds engineered for hairlessness or specific body types, the Transylvanian’s look arises from a natural and rare coat mutation that is still being studied and refined.
Often found in solid black or blue Karpati, these cats have an air of folklore made flesh—mysterious yet affectionate, intense yet loyal. As interest in the breed grows, breeders are working to establish a stable foundation and preserve the breed’s rare genetics and captivating charm.
Donskoy
The Elegant Shapeshifters
The Donskoy, or Don Sphynx / Russian Sphynx, is a captivating Russian hairless breed known for its elegant appearance and partially to fully hairless coat. They come in four coat types: Rubber Bald (completely hairless), Flock (soft peach fuzz), Velour (short, wavy fur that may recede), and Brush (coarse, partial coat). Unlike the Canadian Sphynx—whose hairlessness is caused by a recessive gene—the Donskoy's hairlessness is due to a dominant gene, and has greater coat variety. Additionally, the Donskoy is considered a generally healthy breed without the high incidence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) that plagues the Canadian Sphynx.
First discovered in 1987 through a rescued cat named Varvara, the breed was developed by Russian breeder Irina Nemikina and officially recognized by the World Cat Federation (WCF) in 1997 and by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2005. Today, the Donskoy continues to enchant with its intelligent and affectionate nature, loyalty, and unusual beauty.