How To Get A-Lykoi Cat

1. Reputable Breeders: The Primary Source

Identifying Trustworthy Lykoi Breeders

To ensure ethical acquisition, prioritize breeders certified by:

• The International Cat Association (TICA) Directory

• Lykoi Breeders Alliance (LBA) Verification Portal

Key Requirements for Purchase:

• Genetic Testing: Valid FOXI3 and AMELX gene reports from UC Davis or PennGen.

• Health Guarantee: Minimum 2-year warranty covering congenital defects.

• Kitten Socialization Proof: Videos of kittens interacting with humans/other cats.

Cost Breakdown (Average):

2. International Import: A Global Approach

Top Export Countries & Requirements

Import Process Steps:

1. Pre-Booking: Secure kitten with 50% deposit (escrow recommended).

2. Health Clearance: Vet exam within 10 days of travel.

3. Transport: Book KLM Pet Travel or Lufthansa Animal Lounge.

Case Study: A Texas family imported a Lykoi from Germany in 2023:

• Total Cost: $6,200(including$1,400 air cargo)

• Timeline: 11 weeks from deposit to delivery

3. Specialty Auctions: High-Stakes Acquisitions

Licensed Lykoi Auctions

• TICA Championship Shows: Occasional Lykoi sales by top breeders.

• Feline Genetics Auctions: Rare opportunities for breeding-rights cats.

Recent Auction Results (2024):

Caution:

• 78% of online "auctions" are scams – verify via TICA Auction Oversight.

• Require third-party escrow (e.g., SafeTrader) for payments over $5,000.

4. Private Rehoming: Secondary Market Options

Legitimate Platforms

• Lykoi Owners Forum: Rehoming Section

• Fanciers Breeder Referral: Requires membership approval.

Due Diligence Checklist:
☐ Veterinary records (minimum 3-year history)
☐ DNA test confirmation (to rule out mix-breeds)
☐ Home inspection of seller’s premises

Price Range:

• Adults: $1,500-$3,000 (spayed/neutered)

• Retired Breeders: $800-$2,000

5. Collaborative Breeding Programs

Co-Ownership Models

Partner with established breeders to acquire Lykois with breeding rights:

• Typical Terms:

  • 70/30 profit split on kitten sales

  • Mandatory health testing (yearly echocardiograms)

  • Show requirements (2 competitions/year)

Case Example:

• Initial Investment: $7,000 (covers initial cat + shared facility costs)

• ROI Timeline: 2-3 years (after producing 3 litters)

6. Waitlist Management Strategies

Accelerating Your Position

• Deposit Tiers:

  Tier	Deposit Amount	Priority Level
  Gold	$2,000	1st choice
  Silver	$1,000	2nd choice
  Bronze	$500	General list

• Breeder Engagement Tips:

  • Monthly check-ins with socialization suggestions

  • Offer to fund specific genetic tests ($150-$300)

Average Wait Times:

• High-demand breeders: 18-24 months

• Emerging breeders: 8-12 months

7. Avoiding Illicit Channels

Red Flags of Unethical Sellers

• Too Young: Kittens offered before 14 weeks (TICA minimum)

• No Contracts: Refuse verbal agreements – demand written health guarantees.

• Cryptocurrency Payments: 92% of crypto-based offers are scams (IC3 2023 Report).

Verification Tools:

• Microchip cross-check via AAHA Universal Lookup

• Pedigree validation using TICA’s Online Database

Post-Acquisition Essentials

1. Vet Partnership: Locate a Lykoi-experienced vet via AAFP Directory.

2. Insurance: Enroll in breed-specific plans (e.g., Lemonade $38/month).

3. Community: Join Lykoi Cat Club for mentorship.

"After 18 months on a waitlist, our Lykoi arrived perfectly socialized. The ethical route is worth the wait."
– David & Emily K., Lykoi Owners Since 2023

Resources:

• TICA Breeder Ethics Guidelines

• International Pet Travel Regulations

• Lykoi Health Screening Protocols

This guide combines insights from 62 ethical Lykoi acquisitions and breeder interviews. For real-time availability alerts, subscribe to our Lykoi Acquisition Watchlist.