The Korat is a rare feline even within its home country of Thailand, and is highly cherished by the Thai people for its exceptionally gentle nature, often considered a symbol of good luck.
APPEARANCE
Size: Medium
Weight: 3 – 5 kg
Coat Length: Short
Coat Colour: Blue
Eye Colour: Green
Grooming: Low
Longevity: Up to 19 years
Attention Needs: Moderate
RECOGNITION: ACF, ANCATS, CCCA
History of the Breed
The Korat cat is an ancient breed with a history dating back over 600 years in Thailand. Also known as the “Si-Sawat” or “Good Luck Cat,” it was highly cherished by Thai royalty and aristocracy, symbolizing good fortune. The breed’s distinctive silver-blue coat, large green eyes, and heart-shaped head contributed to its significance.
In the late 19th century, the Korat gained international attention when a pair was gifted to an American diplomat. Despite facing challenges during World War II, dedicated breeders worked to preserve the Korat’s unique qualities. Official recognition came in 1959 when the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) registered the breed in the United States.
Known for their playful and affectionate nature, Korats have become popular among cat enthusiasts worldwide. The breed’s rich history and cultural significance, coupled with its striking appearance, continue to make it a sought-after and cherished companion.
Appearance
The Korat cat is a breed known for its striking and elegant appearance. This medium-sized cat has a well-proportioned body that is muscular and graceful. The most distinctive feature of the Korat is its short, smooth, and glossy coat, which lies close to the body. The coat colour is a shimmering silver-blue, giving the cat a lustrous sheen that adds to its overall allure.
The head of the Korat is heart-shaped, with large, round, and expressive eyes that are a vivid shade of green. The eyes are set wide apart, enhancing the cat’s sweet and alert expression. The ears are relatively large and pointed, contributing to the cat’s balanced and symmetrical appearance.
One notable characteristic of the Korat is its “double” coat, consisting of both a short, fine undercoat and a longer, silky topcoat. This double layer adds texture to the cat’s coat and enhances its luxurious feel. The overall impression is one of refinement and sophistication.
The Korat’s legs are slender but muscular, supporting the cat’s agile and active nature. Its tail is medium in length, tapering to a rounded tip. The silver-blue colour of the coat is consistent across the body, creating a sleek and uniform appearance.
Personality
Korats are cherished for their affectionate and gentle nature. One prominent aspect of the Korat’s personality is their strong bond with their human companions. These cats thrive on close interaction and form deep attachments to their owners. They are often described as “people-oriented” and enjoy being involved in various family activities. Korats are known to follow their owners around the house, seeking attention and affection.
Intelligence is another notable trait in Korat cats. They are quick learners and can adapt to new environments easily. This intelligence makes them highly trainable, and they may even learn tricks or respond to commands. Additionally, their inquisitive nature leads them to explore their surroundings with curiosity, making playtime an essential part of their daily routine.
Korats are also recognized for their gentle demeanor. They tend to be mild-mannered and generally get along well with children and other pets. Their calm and loving nature makes them an excellent choice for families seeking a feline companion.
While Korats are affectionate and sociable, they may be reserved around strangers. It might take some time for them to warm up to new people, but once they establish trust, they can form strong bonds outside their immediate family circle.
Living With Korat
Living with a Korat cat is a unique and rewarding experience. Korats are known for their affectionate and gentle nature, making them excellent companions for individuals or families. These cats are often described as playful and intelligent, enjoying interactive activities and games with their human counterparts.
One distinctive feature of the Korat is its striking blue coat, which is short, glossy, and has a silver-tipped sheen. Their large, expressive green eyes contribute to their captivating appearance. Despite their elegant and poised demeanour, Korats are known to form strong bonds with their owners, seeking attention and physical contact.
These cats thrive on companionship and are known to be social, making them well-suited for households with other pets or children. Korats may display a reserved nature around strangers but are generally loyal and devoted to their family members. Additionally, they are known to be relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming, thanks to their short coat.
Overall, living with a Korat cat involves enjoying the companionship of an affectionate feline friend who brings joy through their playful antics and strong bond with their human family.
