ukrainian-levkoy
Playful, affectionate, curious, sociable
Overview
Origin
Ukraine
Life Span
15- 20 years
Height
8"- 10"
Weight
11-15 pounds
Group
Medium-sized hairless
Price
$400 to $800
History
The history of the Ukrainian Levkoy cat begins in 2004, in Russia. Cat breeder Elena Vsevolodovna Birjukova decided to try something completely different, crossing a Scottish Fold cat with a Donskoy. She was successful, ultimately treating the world of cat fancy to a brand-new breed. The resulting kittens had folded ears and barely any hair. As time passed, other out crosses were used including Sphynx and Oriental Shorthair cats.
As a new and relatively rare breed, the Ukrainian Levkoy remains very difficult to find. Individuals may be registered with the International Cat Fanciers’ Association, and is shown at ICFA events in Ukraine and Russia, where breeders continue to work toward development and standardization. To date, the Ukrainian Levkoy cat breed has yet to be recognized by the world's largest feline registries.
Care
Nutrition
The Ukrainian Levkoy cat has no special nutritional needs, however good nutrition is vital. We recommend offering a high-quality commercial brand if you're not able to feed fresh food. Ensure that you choose a brand that relies on real meat or fish as the number one ingredient.
Grooming
Just like other hairless breeds, the Ukrainian Levkoy requires occasional bathing to prevent excess oil from building up. In addition, you'll probably want to keep their claws trimmed short.
Exercise
Ukrainian Levkoy cats are accomplished athletes. Treat them to plenty of toys, and make sure that they have at least one or two tall perches from which to view their domain. Cat condos, wall shelves, and window seats are appreciated.
Health
Ukrainian Levkoy cats are generally healthy, however they have delicate skin that is prone to sunburn, frostbite, and irritation. It's very important to keep this kitty indoors, out of the elements.
Breed Standard
Body
The body should be well-proportioned, long, slender, and muscular.
Head
The head should be a long, angular wedge with wrinkled skin between the ears. The profile should be “stepped” like a dog’s face. The muzzle should be short and slightly rounded, with a prominent muzzle break.
Eyes
The eyes are typically large and almond-shaped, with a slight slant. All eye colors are accepted.
Ears
The ears should be fairly large, and should fold inward, but should not be so tightly folded that they touch the head.
Color
Ukrainian Levkoy cats may be of any color and pattern.
Coat
As a “hairless” cat breed, the Ukrainian Levkoy should have little to no hair. Any hair that is present should be fine and downy.
Tail
The tail should be long, slim, and whippy, with a pointed end. Overall, it should be in good proportion to the remainder of the cat’s body.
Legs & Paws
The legs should be long and athletic, with fine musculature. The feet should be oval-shaped, with long, prominent toes.
Personality & Temperament
Friendly, playful, and intelligent, the Ukrainian Levkoy also happens to be among the world's rarest cat breeds.
If you're fortunate enough to bring a Ukrainian Levkoy into your home, you can expect endless hours of cuddling, lots of vocal communication, and an endless display of silly antics that are certain to keep you entertained.
Ukrainian Levkoy cats require plenty of attention in return for their affection. These kitties really do not like to be left alone for long periods of time, and can become anxious and stressed without company. Luckily, another cat or a friendly dog will do in the event that you aren't able to spend most of your days at home.
These kitties are kid friendly, and they easily bond with every member of the family. They are often friendly toward strangers, serving as marvelous ambassadors for hairless cat breeds.
The Ukrainian Levkoy is highly inquisitive, with an uncanny ability to open cupboards and drawers. Even if you have no young children in your home, you might find yourself purchasing child-proofing latches.