Ukrainian Levkoy: The Unique Hairless Cat with Elf-like Ears
Introduction
The Ukrainian Levkoy is a rare and striking cat breed known for its hairless body, folded ears, and slender, muscular build. A relatively new breed, it combines the Sphynx’s baldness with the Scottish Fold’s ear structure, resulting in an exotic, almost alien-like appearance.
If you’re intrigued by unusual feline companions, this guide covers everything about the Ukrainian Levkoy appearance, personality, care needs, and where to find one.
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Origin & History of the Ukrainian Levkoy
- Developed in Ukraine in 2004 by breeder Elena Biriukova.
- Crossbred from Donskoy (Don Sphynx) and Scottish Fold
- Named after the Levkoy plant, known for its folded leaves, mirroring the cat’s ears.
- Recognized by Ukrainian and Russian feline organizations still rare outside Eastern Europe.
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Physical Characteristics: The Elf-like Feline
Distinctive Features:
✅ Hairless or partially coated (some have a velvety fuzz)
✅ Folded ears (like a Scottish Fold)
✅ Slender, muscular body with long legs
✅ Wrinkled skin, especially around the face and neck
✅ Large, almond-shaped eyes (often green or blue)
Size: Medium (8–12 lbs)
Lifespan: 12–15 years
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Personality & Temperament
Despite their alien-like looks, Ukrainian Levkoys are affectionate, playful, and social.
Key Traits:
✔ Highly intelligent – Can learn tricks and enjoy puzzle toys.
✔ People-oriented – Loves cuddling and following owners around.
✔ Energetic & playful – Enjoys interactive games.
✔ Good with kids & pets – Friendly and adaptable.
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Care & Maintenance
Skin Care:
- Weekly baths(to remove oil buildup).
- Moisturizing(pet-safe lotions to prevent dryness).
- Sun protection(avoid prolonged sun exposure).
Diet & Health:
- High-protein diet(supports metabolism).
- Prone to dental issues– Regular teeth cleaning needed.
- Sensitive to cold– Needs warm clothing in winter.
Common Health Concerns:
- Skin infections(due to lack of fur).
- Ear issues(folded ears need regular cleaning).
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)(heart condition seen in some lines).
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Where to Buy a Ukrainian Levkoy
- Reputable breeders(mainly in Ukraine, Russia, and some European countries).
- Price: 1,000: 1,000–3,000 (due to rarity).
- Adoption: Rare, but check specialized Sphynx/Donskoy rescues.
Is a Ukrainian Levkoy Right for You?
If you want a unique, affectionate, and low-shedding cat, the Ukrainian Levkoy is a fantastic choice. However, their specialized care needs make them best suited for dedicated owners who can provide proper skin care, warmth, and attention.
Would you adopt a Ukrainian Levkoy? Let us know in the comments! �💜
Ukrainian Levkoy
Profile of Ukrainian Levkoy
Ukrainian Levkoy is a new, artificially bred breed of hairless cats. These pets are also referred to as representatives of rare breeds, and although Levkoy is only gaining fame and popularity, it has already received a lot of positive feedback from breeders and cat lovers.
They are of Ukrainian origin, which, in principle, is clear from the breed’s name. In addition to the fact that Levkoy does not have hair, these are perhaps the only fold-eared bald cats in the world, and the only artificially bred breed in Ukraine, which largely determines their uniqueness.
For breeding, Scottish fold and Don Sphinx were used. Reproduction is carried out according to the heterozygous type, even though there cannot be two-fold-eared individuals in a pair of parents.
The breeding program was started by felinologist Elena Biryukova, owner of the cattery “LADA CATS” in 2000, according to independently developed sketches. The first Ukrainian kitten was born on January 21, 2004, and was named Levkoy Primero.
The international felinological system ICFA RUI allowed leucs to participate in the Championship of Ukraine among purebred cats with the right to win the title of champion and even the European champion, as well as the opportunity to perform in the “Best in Show”.
The felinological organization WCA in Russia also gave the right to participate in the Championships of pedigree cats of Russia.
Characteristics of the Ukrainian Levkoy
Adaptability 09/10
Attachment to the family 07/10
Gaming activity 08/10
intelligence 08/10
General health 05/10
Wool fallout 01/10
Friendliness to children 09/10
Friendly to dogs 09/10
Love of meows 06/10
Breed
Information about the Ukrainian Levkoy
| Country of origin | Ukraine |
| Lifetime | 12-14 years |
| Size | average |
| Weight | Cats: 3-5 kg, Cats: 2-3.5 kg |
| Coat type | wool less |
| Color | any color |
| Lifestyle | indoors |
Ukrainian Levkoy Price 1000$ |
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What is the description of the Ukrainian Levkoy?
If you want to have a truly unique cat, the Ukrainian Levkoy is ideal for this criterion. Everything about it is unique, and it can be seen with the naked eye. At the same time, by its nature, it embodies the best qualities of cats, is devoid of aggression, is strongly attached to loved ones, and understands them well.
The Ukrainian Levkoy is a medium-sized, fold-eared breed, and the structure of the auricle (angle of inclination, twisting, etc.) may differ slightly in different individuals. The legs are long, slender, and the whole appearance of the animal gives the impression of extraterrestrial grace.
The breast is oval, protrudes forward, the muzzle is wedge-shaped, elongated, and between the ears, as a rule, there are folds of skin. The exact life expectancy for the novelty of the breed and the small number of individuals has not been established, but is approximately 12 years or more.
What is the personality of the Ukrainian Levkoy?
Although this is a completely new breed, it already has many fans not only due to its fantastic appearance but also due to its kind, sympathetic character. The Ukrainian lion cat is friendly, soft, and patient, like all domestic cats, loves attention, but without excesses, and is
unobtrusive in itself.
An important advantage is high intelligence and internal flexibility so that the pet relatively easily adapts to changing environmental conditions, moving, etc. Leucos have a cheerful disposition, are playful, active, and sometimes like to play a little prank. They treat everyone well, including children and unfamiliar (or unfamiliar) people, and accept other pets normally if they don’t face hostility.
What are the common
diseases in Ukrainian Levkoy?
An artificially bred breed, especially, has the genes of cats with a mutation; it is not necessary to count on good health. Due to the small number of individuals and the novelty of the breed, it is difficult to fully classify all diseases to which there is a genetic predisposition – there are no thorough studies.
However, you can be sure that various types of skin irritations take place – this is a feature of all hairless cats, and the Ukrainian Levkoy is no exception. Also, be vigilant of drafts and cold, because they do not have a natural fur coat.
How to take care of the Ukrainian Levkoy?
Caring for a hairless cat is perhaps even more responsible than a cat that has hair. You will need to wipe the folds of your pet’s skin with a damp cloth at least several times a day, removing sweat, and also make sure that the Ukrainian Levkoy is not in a draft.
In winter, you will need to dress him in a special sweater or overalls. In addition, you need to regularly bathe the animal, three times a week, and it is better to brush your teeth every day, trim the claws every 10 days, and monitor the cleanliness of the ears and eyes.
