Levkoy Cat
Facts and Cat Profile

The Ukrainian Levkoy cat is a new cat breed and at this stage relatively unknown in the West. The development of this 'hairless cat breed' was probably inspired by the increase in popularity of the better known hairless cats - the Canadian Sphynx, the Russian Donskoy and the Peterbald.

In 2000, Elena Vsevolodovna Birjukova, a Russian cat breeder, started work on developing a unique hairless cat. In order to create this cat, Ms Birjukova crossed a female Sphynx and a male cat with lob ears similar to the Scottish Fold cat breed. She finally achieved her goal in 2004. The Levkoy cat was named after the Levkoy plant which is characterized by its bent leaves, much like the cats ears. In Russia they are also known as the Levkoj or Levkoi. The first Levkoy was nicknamed 'Levkoy Primero' - a name that seems to have stuck with the breed.

The cat is recognized by the Russian and Ukrainian cat associations. It's a matter of time before they gain popularity in the West.

Their overall look is described as a graceful and elegant cat. They have a unique appearance, with the general look of the Sphynx and the lob ears of the Scottish Fold.

Body: The Levkoy cat has a muscular but slender and medium to long body and the back is slightly arched. Their necks are muscular and of medium length.

Legs: Their legs are strong boned, fairly long, but in proportion to the body. Their paws are oval in shape with long toes.

Tail: The tail tapers from the base to the tip. The long, slender tail is in proportion to the body.

Head: Their head is described as a modified wedge, being slightly longer than it is broad. They have prominent cheekbones.

Eyes: Almond-shaped, large eyes that are set at a slant. All colors are permissible.

Ears: The Levkoy cat has large ears that are set wide apart. Between half or one third of the of the ear folds forward and down, but the ears should not touch the head.

Coat: This 'hairless' cat is in fact covered in a fine down-like coat. Sparse hair is found on the paws, face, tail and testicles. The skin is described as feeling like chamois or a warm, fuzzy peach. The skin is wrinkled on the head, body and legs. Some cats may present with patches of fur on their tails and legs. All coat colors and patterns are recognized, but tabby cats are not differentiated by pattern.

Check all breeds of cat breed standards in your country

Ukranian Levkoy Cat Breed Information

Would they suit a home with Children and other Pets?

Small children do need to be taught how to handle kittens and cats. They get on well with other cats and dogs.

Temperament and Personality

These are sweet tempered cats. They are lively, mischievous, loving, affectionate, playful and very loyal pets. They are quite vocal cats and certainly make themselves heard at dinnertime.

Indoor or Outdoor Cats

The Ukrainian Levkoy is an indoor cat. As they are prone to extreme heat and cold, it is preferable to keep them indoors. To prevent boredom, create an indoor adventure zone for your companion. It should include cat gyms, cat toys, scratching towers and if possible an indoor garden full of non-toxic plants.

Cat Grooming and Cat Care

Whilst the Levkoy cat is a hairless (or has minimal hair), it is not a low maintenance cat breed! Their skins, like human skin, sweats and as result, daily sponging is recommended. A monthly bath is suggested. Nail clipping every 4- 6 weeks and weekly dental hygiene is needed. Their paws, nail beds and in between their toes needs to be cleaned weekly.

To help you with this, we have provided some extensive information on cat care - this includes care of their teeth, claws and tips on how to bath a cat.

Cat Health Concerns

Levkoys are healthy cats. Their skin does need special care to avoid skin diseases and sunburn. They may be prone to gum disease and tooth decay, so regular dental check-ups are advised. It is too early to establish whether they have any hereditary / genetic diseases like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy which is found in the Sphynx

Do consider cat insurance for your cat.

Are they Hypoallergenic cats?

They are not hypoallergenic cats. Allergic reactions to cats are caused by the protein Fel D1 found in the saliva, hair and dander, which is the old skin that cats shed.

Cat Diet and Nutrition

The Levkoy needs to be fed a high quality cat food. Our cat food information provides insights into raw cat food, canned cat food and dry cat food. There are special commercial cat foods designed for hairless cats. Note: In winter they require a high calorie diet to keep their body temperature slightly above normal.

Cat Weight

3.5 - 7.0 kg (7.7 - 15.4 lbs)

Life Expectancy

Their life span cannot yet be determined as this is a new cat breed. You can extend your cat's life - find out more about this in our chapter on how long do cats live.

For additional information on Levkoy Cats visit: http://www.ukrainlevkoy.narod.ru

For additional Cat information please visit, choosing a cat breed and take a look at our list of cat names for boy and girl cat names.