Korat Cat Traits: What Makes This Breed Stand Out?
The Korat cat, with its stunning silver-blue coat and vibrant green eyes, is an ancient breed from Thailand symbolizing good fortune. Known for their affectionate and intelligent nature, Korat cats are both rare and deeply cherished by those who own them.
The Korat cat, a medium sized Cat Breed known for its robust, cobby build, is considered a symbol of good luck. This intelligent cat features a heart shaped face with large, mobile ears and striking green or greenish amber eyes, which can take up to two years to fully develop their final color. The Korat, also known as the "Si Sawat" cat, is renowned for its smooth curves and a blue silver coat tipped with silver, giving it a unique, gleaming appearance. The history of the Korat cat is rich and storied, often mentioned in ancient Thai literature, including a cat book poem. With a strong and bold form, the Korat cat's coat is short, and it rarely has any white markings. This blue grey cat from Cedar Glen is not only beautiful but also has a significant cultural heritage, making it a truly special type of cat.
Quick facts
Life Span |
How long do Korat cats live? 10 - 15 years. |
Average Weight |
2.7kg - 4.5kg |
Colours |
The Korat cat exclusively comes in blue, although the extent of its silver shading can vary. |
Essential Information
- A Korat cat is highly active and inquisitive.
- Korat cats require weekly Grooming to maintain their coat.
- Sociable and dependent, Korat cats thrive on human companionship.
- Korat cats are moderately talkative, but not excessively.
- Korat cats benefit from an experienced owner.
- Can be left alone all day, but they still need stimulation.
- Requires high level enrichment.
- Loves a Automatic Feeding Station.
- Korat cats have an average build.
- Korat cats are not ideal for family homes with lots of noise.
- They need extensive outdoor space to explore.
- Korat cats thrive in a calm environment.
- Sensitive they may become Stressed if things are too chaotic.
- They form strong bonds with their owners.
- Korat cats enjoy a stable routine and can become anxious.
- Good with other pets, but they may prefer to be the center of attention.
Korat Cat Breed Health
The Korat cat breed may suffer from:
Gangliosidosis (GM1 and GM2) – This is a genetic disorder that affects the nervous system and can be fatal if present. Responsible breeders will test for this condition to prevent it from being passed on to kittens.
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Obesity – While Korat cats are naturally active, they can gain weight if they are not given enough physical activity or enrichment, leading to potential Obesity related health problems.
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Respiratory Issues – Due to their short coat, Korat cats can be sensitive to cold environments, making them more prone to respiratory infections if exposed to chilly conditions.
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Dental Disease – Regular dental care is essential as Korat cats can suffer from gum disease and Cat Teeth decay if not properly cared for.
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Heart Conditions – Some Korat cats may be susceptible to heart diseases like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which affects the heart muscle.
Testing available:
- DNA testing for gangliosidosis, which determines whether a cat has the potential to be affected by this condition.
Personality of the Korat Cat
The Korat cat, a medium sized breed known for its striking blue grey coat and silver tipped fur, has a rich history rooted in Thai culture, where it is revered as a symbol of good luck and known locally as the "Si Sawat" cat. With its heart shaped face and intelligent, expressive eyes, this breed is both strong and bold in form, yet affectionate and sociable. Korats are celebrated for their adept problem solving abilities and a knack for "helping" around the house, whether it's opening containers or adjusting radio settings. They are described in ancient cat book poems as intuitive and capable of understanding their owners' thoughts before they are even fully formed, making them a truly unique and intelligent companion.
Breed Rating
Family Friendly |
1/5 |
Playfulness |
4/5 |
Intelligence |
3/5 |
Likes Other Pets |
5/5 |
Grooming Needs |
3/5 |
Shedding |
3/5 |
Vocalize |
2/5 |
History and Origins
The Korat, a native Cat Breed of Thailand, is celebrated in the 14thcentury 'Cat Book Poems', which describes its coat as resembling the color of clouds and its eyes like dew on a lotus leaf. Despite its ancient origins, the Korat was not introduced to the US until the 1960s, with the first UK litter born in 1972. Records suggest earlier attempts to introduce the Korat to the UK in 1896, where a blue cat entered in the Siamese category was disqualified due to its deviation from the typical Siamese coloring standards.
Outdoors or Indoors
Although the Korat cat breed is naturally equipped for outdoor adventures, their strong hunting instincts and affectionate demeanor make it risky to allow them outside unsupervised. Providing a Cat Proofed Garden or a secure built in cat run allows your blue grey Korat to enjoy playtime and fresh air safely, while staying protected from potential dangers.
Enrichment and Special Requirements
Known for their intelligence and playful nature, the Korat' cat breed, native to Thailand, adores engaging in cat games and playing with toys. They particularly excel in Cat Fishing Rod Toy games using toys on strings and can easily master fetching thrown toys. Enhance their playtime by providing Puzzle Feeding Toys that cater to their natural hunting instincts. Investing in cat trees and climbing gyms not only enriches their environment but also ensures your blue grey Korat remains active and entertained.
Nutrition and Feeding
Each Korat cat is distinct, with their own preferences and nutritional requirements. As carnivores, cats must obtain 41 essential nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients varies based on age, lifestyle, and overall health. For instance, a growing, energetic kitten requires a different nutrient balance than a less active senior cat. It's crucial to feed the right amount of food to maintain their 'ideal body condition' as per feeding guidelines and to consider individual preferences for wet or dry cat food recipes.
Find out more about cat nutrition with our article.
Grooming your Korat Cat
The Korat boasts a low maintenance coat, requiring just a weekly brush to keep it in good condition. It's important to note that a greasy coat may indicate that your cat isn't grooming properly, which could signal health issues. Like all cats, Korats benefit from regular Vaccinations, Tick control, and annual veterinary check ups to maintain their overall health and well being.
Family Life Compatibility
The Korat is fond of human companionship and thrives in homes where someone is present most of the time. Like many cats, Korats may not appreciate handling by very young children, but they typically get along well with older children who can understand and respect a cat's boundaries and needs.
Korat Cats Fun Facts
Symbol of Good Luck – In Thailand, Korat cats are considered a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. They were often gifted to newlyweds as a blessing for a happy and successful life together.
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Unique Silver-Blue Coat – The Korat’s distinctive silver-blue coat is known for its shimmering appearance, which is caused by each hair having a light-colored root and a darker tip, giving them a radiant, glossy look in the light.
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One of the Oldest Breeds – The Korat is an ancient breed, mentioned in Thai literature dating back over 600 years. Its long history makes it one of the oldest naturally occurring cat breeds in the world.
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Extraordinary Senses – Korat cats are known for their heightened senses, particularly their keen sense of smell, sight, and hearing. This makes them highly alert and excellent hunters, despite their friendly and affectionate nature at home.
FAQ
Which cat breeds are related to the Korat Cat?
This cat breed is closely related to several other ancient Thai cat breeds, most notably the Siamese and the Burmese. All three breeds share a common origin in Southeast Asia and are revered for their beauty and cultural significance. The Siamese is known for its slender body, distinctive pointed markings, and striking blue eyes, while the Burmese is recognized for its compact, muscular build and deep, rich coat colors. Although each breed has its unique traits, their shared heritage ties them to the Korat, with all of them being part of Thailand's rich feline history. Additionally, the Thai cat, sometimes referred to as the "Wichien Maat," is another breed related to the Korat, featuring a more traditional appearance compared to the modern Siamese.
What is the personality of a Korat cat?
The Korat cat personality is a unique blend of affection, intelligence, and loyalty. Korat cats are known for their strong attachment to their owners, often following them around and seeking constant companionship. Playful and curious, they enjoy exploring their surroundings and require mental stimulation to stay happy. Despite their active nature, they thrive in calm environments and appreciate quiet moments. The Korat cat personality also includes moderate vocalization, as they use soft, expressive meows to communicate. Their friendly and sociable nature makes them wonderful companions for those who can give them the attention they crave.
Where can i find a Korat Cat for sale?
If you're looking for a Korat cat for sale, it's essential to find a reputable breeder who specializes in this rare breed. You can often locate breeders through cat breed registries or online platforms dedicated to purebred cats. Korat cats are relatively rare, so you may need to join a waiting list or search internationally for a breeder. The Korat cat price can range from £400 to £1,000, depending on the breeder, location, and the cat’s lineage. Make sure to verify the breeder’s credentials to ensure you are getting a healthy and ethically bred Korat cat for sale . You may also find Korat cats available through breed-specific rescue organizations or adoption agencies, though this is less common.
What is the difference between a Korat and a Russian Blue cat?
When comparing Korat vs Russian Blue cat , several differences stand out between these two silver-blue breeds. The Korat has a more muscular, compact build with a heart-shaped face and large, expressive green eyes. In contrast, the Russian Blue is known for its slender, graceful body and almond-shaped green eyes. The Korat's coat is a single layer of fine, glossy fur, while the Russian Blue has a dense, plush double coat, giving it a softer texture. In terms of personality, the Korat is highly affectionate, social, and often vocal, whereas the Russian Blue tends to be more reserved, independent, and quiet. Both are intelligent and loyal, but the Korat thrives on constant interaction, while the Russian Blue may prefer a more tranquil and less interactive environment.
Is Korat a rare breed?
Yes, the Korat is considered a rare breed. Originating from Thailand, this ancient breed has been highly prized for centuries, especially due to its cultural significance and association with good luck. However, outside of Thailand, the Korat remains relatively uncommon, with limited breeders specializing in preserving its pure lineage. Their rarity, combined with their distinctive silver-blue coat and vibrant green eyes, makes the Korat a unique and sought-after breed, contributing to its scarcity in many parts of the world.
Which cat breeds originated in Thailand?
Several notable cat breeds originated in Thailand, each with a rich history and cultural significance. The most well known is the Siamese , famous for its striking blue eyes and color-pointed coat. Another ancient Thai breed is the Korat , known for its silver-blue coat and heart shaped face, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. The Burmese also has its roots in Thailand, with its sleek, muscular build and deep, rich coat colors. Additionally, the Khao Manee , a rare breed with a pure white coat and often mismatched eyes, is highly revered in Thai history. These breeds share a common heritage and are treasured not only for their beauty but also for their symbolic meaning in Thai culture.