General Information:

Height/Length: Medium
Weight: 7.7-15 lbs.
Life Span: 12-15 years
Coloring: Variety
Area of Origin: Crimean Province
Similar Breeds: Sphynx, Donskoy, Scottish Fold

Breed History and Origins:

The Ukrainian Levkoy is a fairly recent breed of cats. Their development began in the early 2000s and the breed is considered man-made, created by the Russian cat breeder Elena Vsevolodovna Birjukova. Her main objective was to create a unique hairless cat, so she began by crossing, or outbreeding, hairless Donskoy females with Scottish Fold males, which resulted in a cat with an extremely unique appearance which we now call the Ukrainian Levkoy.

Two spontaneous mutations of dominant FD genes (gene for folded ears) of cats were used, as well as a spontaneous natural dominant mutation of hairlessness or boldness of the domestic cat gene BD which occurs in Russia. Both the Donskoy and Scottish Fold breeds had appeared in the last century in Scotland and in Russia. Oriental and Domestic cats were used as well in the mating process to achieve the individual features of the Ukrainian Levkoy.

By 2004, Elena finally produced the kind of kittens that fit the breed she intended to create. In 2005, the breed was recognized in the Ukraine by the ICFA RUI (Rolandus Union International). Starting September 2010, it was declared that Ukrainian Levkoy cats could be awarded the “Champion” title and take part in “The Best in Show” competition. Currently, there are 10 Ukrainian Levkoys that have won these titles.

In Russia, the breed was recognized by the ICFA WCA in 2010. It wasn’t until 2011 that the Ukrainian Levkoy cats became eligible for the “Champion” and “The Best in Show” titles within Russia. Other organizations are crossing this relatively new breed as an experimental breed without the “Champion” title at cat exhibitions.

The Ukrainian Levkoy breed is so new that it is still not recognized by most cat fanciers associations around the world. Most individuals of this breed are found in Ukraine and Russia, although a few have been exported to other countries in recent years. The breed remains quite rare but breeders expect it to grow in popularity once the Ukrainian Levkoy receives recognition from TICA (The International Cat Association) or other larger clubs.

Size and Physical Characteristics:

The Ukrainian Levkoy is a cat with a very distinctive and unusual appearance. They are medium in size but have a long, slender and well-muscled body that can seem quite rectangular. The back is slightly arched, their neck is muscular and firm and their chest is oval and broad. They have long legs and very long mobile toes as well that tend to look like stubby fingers.

Viewing from the top, the Levkoy’s wedge-shaped head resembles the outline of a slightly elongated pentagon, giving that their muzzle is only a third of the length of the head. Their forehead is low and the skull is long and flat with prominent cheekbones and angular facial features. Their facial profile is best described as “stepped”, where the upper lines of the nose bridge and the head are almost parallel which gives them a dogface appearance. Ukrainian Levkoy cats have sometimes curly whiskers that may be shortly snapped.

The most distinctive physical trait that the Ukrainian Levkoy cats have are their ears. The ears on these cats are quite large and set high on their heads and wide apart. About half to one third of each ear is roundly folded forward and down without touching the head. Their eyes are also very striking, being large, almond-shaped and set at a slant. Sometimes, their eyes aren’t completely wide open.

The second most distinctive physical trait of Ukrainian Levkoys is their coat, or lack thereof. These cats are hairless but their skin gives them a stylish appearance. Their skin is best described as elastic, thin and often quite wrinkled when not in a fully stretched position. It also tends to be hot to the touch to compensate for the lack of fur to keep them insulated. The skin may be excessive in certain body parts. Despite being hairless, the skin actually does have a fine down-like coat that feels like chamois, or a fuzzy peach. Sparse hair can be found on the paws, face, tail, and genital area. Some cats may even have patches of fur on their tail and legs. All coat colors and patterns are recognized.

Personality and Temperament:

Since these exuberant cats are relatively new and very rare, not much information is available about their temper and personality. From what is known about Ukrainian Levkoys, it is said that they are generally friendly cats and very people-oriented. They are very sociable and will enjoy any human or family company as well as the company of other pets, regardless if they are cats, dogs, pigs, etc. they also form close bonds with their families.

Much like other hairless cat breeds, Ukrainian Levkoys are energetic, active and curious. They will express a kitten like behavior far into their adult life. They love playing and will enjoy a variety of toys, whether they are alone or playing with other pets or humans.

Similar to other hairless cat breeds, Ukrainian Levkoys are energetic and curious. These cats will be acting like kittens far beyond their first birthday. For playtime they are flexible, enjoying a variety of toys and playing alone or with another cat.

These unique creatures also are very loyal and love being petted and massaged. They will often jump from lap to lap to see who has the best stroke. They will also greet their family at the door and follow them from room to room.

In regards to children, it is said that they are quite gentle and moderately docile. It’s always best to educate small children on how to handle a cat respectfully.

Nutritional and Exercise needs:

Diet is very important for cats for it will determine overall health. A healthy coat, teeth, body weight and energy level will depend almost completely on what they are fed. Cats generally are carnivores, so a protein based diet is always the best option. One of its primary food sources is fish, so be sure to provide it now and then. The amount fed depends on weight, activity and age. The type of food depends on the owner but make sure to provide quality and enough water if dry kibble is your choice. If their food is canned verify that only a few fillers are added.

Ukrainian Levkoy cats, just like all other hairless cats, have a higher metabolism to keep them warm due to their lack of fur. This means that they require more food and water than other felines.

When cats are indoors most of the time, they might not get enough exercise. Despite this, Ukrainian Levkoy cats are active. Cats have an evolutionary advantage of having a fast metabolism that works even when they are lying down. This is true especially for these cats, because their fast metabolism keeps them warm and full of energy. Anyway, it’s good to engage your cats in some type of daily activity to help maintain a healthy body weight and keep muscles strong and lean. This benefits the mind as well, keeping it alert and active. Exercise is also a fun way and a good opportunity for you to bond with your pet.

You may be able to set up an area especially for your cat to climb and play around. Cat trees and scratching posts can also be used for this purpose. Cat jungle gyms can be bought at a local pet store or you could build one yourself! Levkoy cats are good at entertaining themselves and will behave like curious playful kittens throughout their adulthood, loving the presence of any kind of toys and entertainment.

Grooming and Upkeep:

In the case of Ukrainian Levkoy cats, less hair doesn’t not always mean less upkeep. It is actually more work. Although these cats do not need any brushing, their skin requires a special care routine. Their skin does not have the fur to absorb the natural oil secretions that it produces, therefore weekly baths are necessary to keep their skin clean and free of oil buildup that can lead to infection. Some breeders recommend baths about twice a week and wiping the skin with a soft cloth to prevent their skin from becoming sticky. Their folded ears also need attention and cleaning to avoid wax buildup.

Ukrainian Levkoy cats also need to be given protection such as clothing because they are susceptible to skin cancer, sunburns and hypothermia. Make sure they have safe access to warm places and monitor their time under direct sunlight.

Characteristics unique to the breed:

Ukrainian Levkoy, despite being very rare, are very friendly and docile. They can tend to be moderately talkative and like to have their family’s attention. They love being massaged and they will actively play with anybody. It’s best to keep them as indoor cats since they are very sensitive to extreme heat or cold. They are very social and gentle cats, and with proper care, they are a treat for any family.

Health and Wellness:

Annual exams, vaccinations, heartworm prevention and flea and tick preventions are recommended for Ukrainian Levkoy cats, as with any other breed. Initially make sure to deworm your cat and run basic blood tests as early diagnosis is always the best. Keep in mind that a good diet and regular exercise is always the best prevention.

Being a pet, it is somewhat common for them to suffer some types of eye problems, diarrhea and fleas. Levkoy cats are susceptible to extreme cold and heat so protection for their skin is a must. They may be prone to gum disease and tooth decay, so regular dental check-ups are advised.

Levkoy cats may also me susceptible to arthritis and cartilage problems like degenerative joint disease which is common in cats with folded ears, like the Scottish Fold. Be sure to consult a veterinarian of your choice for routine care and medical advice for your furry friend.

If given the correct treatment and protection from the elements, Ukrainian Levkoy cats live long and active lives.

Interesting Facts about the breed:

• The breed got its name from the Levkoy plant that has bent leaves, just like these cats have bent ears.
• They are affectionate and very intelligent.
• These cats need special care for their skin to avoid sunburn, skin cancer, or hypothermia.
• Their face appears to be dog-like.