Korat is one of the most mesmerizing cat breeds in the world. People usually say to this breed that it’s ‘just another blue cat’.
But, the truth goes beyond that, because trust us – the Korat is definitely not another blue cat!
Underneath that silver appearance and exterior are an extraordinary feline with an old history of hundreds of years and extraordinary human characteristics.
Quick Facts
Real name: Korat
Other names: Si sawat, Malet
Origin: Thailand
Breed type: Domestic cat
Weight: Medium-size cat, weighing from 6 to 10 pounds.
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Coat color: Silver-tipped blue coat
Pattern: Only one color – silver-tipped blue
Grooming needs: Low
Tendency to shed: Low
Coat length: Short
Korat: History
The Korat is originally from Thailand. This breed was discovered in Ampur Pimai of the Korat province in Thailand. Also, this breed is one of the oldest ones in the world.
Therefore, the earliest known record of this breed appears in The Cat-Book of Poems or Smud Khoi of Cars, produces in 1350-1767.
Interestingly, this book is about the seventeen cats of Thailand that are known there as the ‘good luck’ cats.
As you have realizes already, the Korat was one of the presented cats. Today, the book is located at Bangkok’s National Library. The breed was named by King Rama V when he was asked where that cat had come from.
When it comes to Korat there is a veil of mystery and folk tales. If a Korat with kinks in their tails cross your path your luck will increase.
The Korat was known among the Thai people as Si-Sawat cat (see-sa-what). The very first Korat has imported into the States from Thailand thanks to Cedar Glen Cattery in Oregon.
On June 12, 1959, the cats (a brother and a sister), were obtained and they were from the Mahajaya Cattery of Thailand.
But it wasn’t until March 1966 that a Korat and Siamese breeder from Maryland moved at the year’s annual meeting so that the Korat can be accepted into championship status.
The Korat is a natural breed and has never been outcrossed to any other breed, neither the breed was used to create a new breed. In addition, every major cat association recognized the breed.
Korat: Physical Appearance
The Korat is a medium-sized cat, weighing from 6 to 10 pounds. Overall, the Korat’s general appearance is of a silver-blue cat with a heavy silver sheen.
The Korat’s body is muscular and hard-bodied. But, this cat has smooth curves and expressive huge eyes. Also, the breed is always alert and has great physical condition.
The Korat is known in the feline world as a cat with unusual color. This cat has a short coat, with strong roots of a lighter silver blue. The coat color increases to deeper blue.
In general, the tips of the coat are silver, especially on the toes and the muzzle. Also, this is the only color that is acceptable for a Korat.
In adult Korat, the eyes are peridot green, while kittens have eyes that are more amber, golden-green, or muddy.
Colored eyes like this will change as kittens grow and become adults, during a period of two to four years. In general, Korat’s are without any patterns.
However, there can be a few exceptions when some appear with white markings or spots. In some rare cases, these spots can increase in size with age and can be seen as flaws.
It’s not strange for Korat’s to be disqualified from various competitions due to these ‘flaws’. However, such markings have no effect on health or behavior.
Back to their general appearance, you will notice a heart-shaped head and well-defined profile. The jaw and chin are strong and well-developed, creating a balancing line for the profile.
Ears are always large and rounded, set high on the head, giving an alert expression. The Korat always has a well-proportioned body, tail medium in length and heavier at the base.
Korat’s Coat Color And Grooming
As mentioned earlier, the Korat is known for its blue coat or silver-tipped coat decorated with big green eyes.
Actually, the Korat is one of the most beautiful gifts that Thailand had to offer to the world. Originally, Korat’s eyes are blue at birth, then they change to amber and then to green.
Their coat is interesting because the hair is light blue at the roots and deep ending in a silver tip.
Some may have some marks while they are in general all silver. Their lips, nose leather, and paw pads range from dark blue to lavender.
This amazing coat is easy to maintain. In general, this breed is not demanding when it comes to grooming in general.
You will have to brush your Korat once a week, with proper grooming tools.
Next to regular brushing you should take care of Korat’s nails and clip them regularly. Moreover, make sure that you provide each vaccine.
Their coat requires little grooming, and a bath is rarely necessary. For prevention of periodontal disease, you can brush her teeth and you can discuss with the veterinarian about the best toothbrush products.
Check the ears weekly. You can wipe them out with a cotton ball moistened with a 50-50 mixture of warm water or cider vinegar. Last, but not least, keep the litter box spotlessly clean.
Cats are extremely particular about bathroom hygiene. It would probably be the best idea to keep your Korat as an indoor cat to protect him from various diseases spread by other cats, attacks by dogs, or any other danger.
Also, your Korat might be at risk of being stolen by someone who would love to have such a beautiful cat.
Korat: Personality
A rare Thai breed, the Korat is truly an affectionate and constant companion that is soft, gentle, and great with children, Surprisingly, this is one of the rare breeds that can actually recognize their owner.
They will see their owner, or a family member and run toward him or them. They will instantly be afraid of strangers, but they will run toward a familiar face.
The Korat is really an action-packed cat with a vivid personality. This breed is all about moving slowly and avoiding loud noises.
Loud noise is something that frightens them, so you should make sure that you don’t make any sudden and strong moves. Especially the moves followed with strong noise.
Their eyes are so expressive that you will be able to see their soul in them. It’s said that their eyes can easily take your breath away. In addition, Korats are known for being highly opinionated cats.
Simply said, that love to be in charge and they will try to be the ruler of the house.
Surprisingly, they are great with dogs, so if you have canine as well you can expect to witness some interesting cat-dog playtime moments.
However, they don’t like being alone, so if you have a dog they will appreciate his as the best and the only friend ever.
Interestingly, this breed has a very different temperament from other Thailand-derived cat breeds, for so many things.
Not only that they are intelligent, but they have a really good memory. Thanks to their great memory they can recognize the faces of their owners.
If they get lost, they would easily find their way home. This breed is also very fond of rules and you won’t see males ever breaking the rules. However, that won’t be the case with females.
For example: if they are living in a big group, they will always use a hierarchy system.
So, when fed the sergeant of the group will eat first, and then the other cats will follow the hierarchy. But, sergeants will let kittens eat first.
When it comes to raising kittens, females will have the leading role. They will teach kittens rules and how to hunt. They will bring them small animals to play with for practice.
They are energetic cats that love t exercise and love to play.
They love to learn tricks and they even love to go outside and walk on a leash. This intelligent breed is not fond of sharing. That being said, make sure that you provide enough toys.
Great toys for this silver-breed are toys that are puzzle-oriented and come with some kind of tricks.
As long as kids treat them with respect and play around them without loud noises and sudden moves. Moreover, they will enjoy playing and learning tricks.
However, there should always be proper supervision when they are alone. Also, Korats tend to prefer other Korats.
They will get along with other cats as well, and even dogs, but if they could choose, they would choose another Korat.
This breed may go well or not with other breeds, but if your Korat spends enough time with another cat or dog, they will likely become best friends.
This breed is not verbal in general, but they feel like they have to express their happiness or opposite they will be more than happy to share some of their vocal unique cat sounds and to let you know when they think on something.
So, be prepared for occasional feedback and a few demands.
Korat: Health
Surprisingly, Korats can be sensitive to vaccines, so make sure that you discuss with your veterinarian carefully when it comes to scheduling vaccinations.
But, the breed is considered to be healthy. However, they can carry a genetic disease, such as gangliosidosis, that can cause paralysis.
Luckily, there is a test that can be conducted so the owners can do all the necessary tests and be sure if their feline is safe or not.
If the test shows that your cat is positive for gangliosidosis she would be immediately removed from the cat breeding.
However, as a responsible pet owner, you should provide regular checks at the veterinarian’s office and keep your cat’s health as great as possible.
Korat: Summary
Korat is definitely not another blue cat and if you are active for an active cat with a vivid personality this just might be your perfect match.
After all, Korats are athletic and active cats, that don’t have any specific exercise needs.
They are muscular throughout their whole life, although they remain lean.
To keep their strong appearance they should be fed with high-quality cat food. Make sure that you brush your Korat once a week and provide enough care and love.
After all, caring about your cat’s mental and physical health is how you get to have a happy cat.