MyCatBreedsBoth Selkirk Rex and Lykoi are originated from United States. Both Selkirk Rex and Lykoi are of same weight. Both Selkirk Rex and Lykoi has almost same life span. Both Selkirk Rex and Lykoi has same litter size. Both Selkirk Rex and Lykoi requires Moderate maintenance.
The Selkirk Rex originated in the USA in 1987. A host of cats have been used to develop this cat breed – Persians, British Shorthairs, Himalayans, American Shorthairs, Exotic Shorthairs, and others.
There was a litter of kittens and the odd one out, one with an unusual coat – was placed with the breeder, Jeri Newman, who bred the cat with a black Persian.
Three Selkirk Rex kittens were born as well as three straight-haired kittens. The cat has been developed with either long- or short coats. The Selkirk Rex cat breed is recognized by various cat associations such as the International Cat Association, the American Cat Fanciers Association in the 1990s as well as the Cat Fanciers Association in 2000.
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 Selkirk Rex is a medium- to large-sized cat that will weigh between 3 to 6kg. He is a well-built cat of which you get a short- and long coat variety. The coat is available in all colors. The coat has a soft, woolly look to it with some curls.
With the long-haired variety, the cat has a well-plumed tail. One drawback perhaps is that the cat is a fairly heavy shedder, and perhaps wouldn’t be a good choice for those with allergies.
This is a lively, playful, energetic cat with a friendly temperament. Cat experts will tell you that it is the Persian and British Shorthair ancestors that have given him his placid, lovable nature. He is, however, more active than those cat breeds and loves to play.
Tolerant and affectionate, the Selkirk isn't a lap cat. Because he has a sociable nature, he dislikes being left alone for long periods of time.
The Selkirk Rex fits in well with households where there are well-behaved children and other pets. He is such a loving cat and loves to be in the company of his human companions. He isn’t demanding and likes to talk to you in a quiet voice.
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.
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.
When you welcome a Selkirk Rex cat into your home, you’ll have a loving friend and companion.
They love to bask in the attention they get as they’re quite unusual with their wavy to curly coats. People are always wanting to touch it.
The Selkirk Rex cat is an active, playful cat and has a whole lot of love to offer you.
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.
The Selkirk Rex cat, if looked after well and given excellent food can live to be 15, 16, or 17 years of age. Some of these cats can suffer from hair loss. Remember, that every cat will require vaccinations and de-worming.
Chronic kidney failure usually develops over a number of months. Chronic kidney failure in cats is a progressive illness but if you get your cat to the vet it can be managed. The vet will want a sample of your cat's urine and possibly a blood test.
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.
Your Selkirk Rex will need to have his fur brushed. You don’t want to brush him too hard every week as this can cause the curls to frizz. Rather use a spray bottle with some cat conditioner and lightly spray the curls and use your fingers to ‘comb’ his hair.
Provide your cat with well-balanced meals. Your Selkirk Rex is a carnivore and you have to ensure that his food is made up of meat. The best commercially manufactured cat foods know how to correctly balance your cat’s food so that it gets the perfect blend of vitamins and minerals. Always choose a good brand of cat food that will meet your cat's nutritional needs. If you’re unsure, you can always ask your vet for suggestions about good quality food that will help towards ensuring good health for your cat.
The cheaper, unknown brands may not have the best ingredients to keep your cat happy and healthy. Remember to read the labels as a growing kitten will require different food to a senior cat.
Provide your Selkirk Rex with a litter box, scratching post, and a climbing tree.
Your kitten will need to be vaccinated to protect him from some of the life-threatening diseases cats can get. Most of the vets these days recommend a combined vaccine, starting at about 8 weeks of age. These vaccines will protect your kitten from Feline Leukaemia Virus, Feline Parovirus, and cat flu.
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.
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.