Rasse-Übersicht
| Charakteristisch | Beschreibung |
| Persönlichkeit | Gentle, Intelligent, Affectionate, Cautious, Active, Playful, Loyal, Curious, Social, Demanding (in terms of attention), Emotionally attuned, Sensitive to noise, Routine-loving, Strong-willed, Alert |
| Gehäuse Typ | Medium-sized, slight to medium build, compact, muscular, robust, cobby build, surprising heft, no fat stores, broad chest, short neck, slender tail often with a subtle kink |
| Gewicht | 6-10 lbs (2.7-4.5 kg); males can exceed 10 lbs |
| Herkunft Region | Thailand (specifically Korat province, Siam) |
| Lebenserwartung | 10-18 years (most sources indicate 10-15 or 12-16 years) |
| Mantel | Short, single coat (no undercoat), silky, fine, soft, dense, lies close to the body, glossy |
| Fellfarbe | Silver-tipped blue (blue-grey with a silver sheen/tips), solid, no patterning (ghost tabby markings in kittens fade) |
| Shedding Level | ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Niedrig) |
| Affectionate Nature | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Sehr hoch) |
| Pflege-Schwierigkeit | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (mäßig bis gering) |
Einführung
Die Korat catan ancient and revered feline originating from Thailand, is often celebrated as the “Good Luck Cat” oder “Si-Sawat” in its native land.
Diese captivating breed ist sofort erkennbar an seinem distinctive silver-blue coat und striking emerald-green eyes, which are said to symbolize prosperity and happiness.
With a heritage steeped in Thai folklore und eine history stretching back centuriesdie Korat embodies both mystical allure und eine profound connection to its human companions. Seine regal appearance und zärtliche Art have contributed to its growing admiration worldwide.
Diese alte Rassemit seinem captivating silver-blue coat und luminous green eyes, has been cherished for centuries, not only for its striking beauty but also for its gentle temperament und deep bond with humans.
Geschichte der Rasse
Die Korat cat’s lineage traces back to the Ayudhya period of Thailand (1350–1767 CE), with the earliest known records appearing in “The Cat-Book of Poems” (Smud Khoi of Cats).
Diese ancient manuscript illustrates 17 different “good luck” cats of Thailand, mit dem Korat being the most renowned among them.
Originating from the Korat province (Amphoe Pimai) in Thailand, these felines were considered national treasures and were traditionally given as precious gifts to brides on their wedding day, symbolizing good fortune and a happy marriage.
Diese cultural practice meant they were never sold, highlighting their revered status and contributing to their rarity outside of Thailand even today.
Über ihre symbolic value, Korats also served practical purposes in ancient Siam, reportedly being trained to check for scorpions before babies were placed in cribs.
Ihre unique appearance has remained largely unchanged over centuries, preserving their distinct features. The breed first made its way to the United States in 1959, importiert von Jean Johnson, mit Daphne Negus later bringing additional Korats in 1969 to strengthen the nascent bloodlines in the country.
Physikalische Merkmale
Die Korat cat ist eine medium-sized feline, typically weighing between 6 and 10 pounds (2.7–4.5 kg)Allerdings mature males can sometimes exceed this weight.
They possess a compact, muscular, and robust “cobby” buildoft feeling surprisingly heavier than their appearance suggests, with no significant fat stores.
Their bodies are characterized by smooth curves, a short, heavy neckund eine broad chest that is slightly wider than their shoulders. Ihre legs are well-proportioned, ending in oval paws, and they are noted for their ability to jump high without a run-up, indicative of their agile and springy musculature.
Die Schwanz ist im Allgemeinen long and slender, heavier at the base und rounded at the tip, mit einer subtle kink sometimes present, which is considered an even greater symbol of luck in Thai tradition.
Perhaps the most bestimmendes Merkmal of the Korat is its distinctive heart-shaped head. This unique facial structure is formed by prominent eyebrow ridges, hohe Wangenknochenund eine rounded, tapered muzzle, creating a captivating outline.
Ihre Ohren sind large, mit flared bases und rounded tips, set high on the head, further contributing to the heart shape. Die Augen sind large, luminous, and wide-open, erscheinend round when fully open but with a slight Asian slant when partially closed.
A remarkable characteristic is the progression of their eye color: kittens are born with blue eyes, which transition to amber or yellow during adolescence, finally maturing into a brilliant peridot or emerald green von 2–4 years of age.
Die Korat’s coat is another hallmark of the breed. It is short, single-layered (meaning no downy undercoat), weich, fine, Seidigund lies close to the body, giving it a sleek and glossy appearance. The color is consistently a silver-tipped blue, where each blue-grey hair has a transparent, silver tip, creating a shimmering “silver halo effect” as the cat moves.
Verhalten und Persönlichkeit
Die Korat cat is renowned for its intelligent, liebevollund loyal natureund bilden oft außergewöhnlich starke Bindungen with its menschliche Begleiter.
Sie werden oft beschrieben als “Velcro cats” due to their desire to stay physically close to their favorite people—whether snuggling on a lap, sitting nearby, oder following their owners from room to room, eager to be involved in daily activities.
Diese profound need for companionship bedeutet, dass sie do not thrive when left alone for extended periods und können zu withdrawn or even aggressive if their social needs are consistently unmet.
While generally gentle and sweet, Korats also possess a “demanding” and “dominant” streakoft beschrieben als ruling their household with an “iron paw sheathed in velvet.”
Sie sind expressive communicatorsunter Verwendung einer Reihe von soft sounds, from quiet chirps of satisfaction zu more insistent meows, though they are generally less vocal than their Siamese relatives.
Korats are highly intelligent and curious, enjoying exploration und mentally stimulating activities. Sie sind schnelle Lerner and can be taught tricks, wie zum Beispiel playing fetch, and some can even be leash-trained.
Trotz ihrer soziale Natur, Korats are also sensitive to their environment. Sie thrive in calm, consistent homes und können zu startled or stressed von excessive noise or commotion.
When introducing them to children or other pets, a cautious and patient approach is recommended, as they can be initially reserved and may show Eifersucht if another pet receives significant attention.
Pflegeanleitung
Diät
Korats, like all cats, are natural predators und erfordern eine high-quality, meat-based diet to thrive. It is essential to provide nutrient-rich, complete, and balanced cat food, whether wet or dry, formulated to meet feline nutritional guidelines.
One notable aspect of their feeding behavior ist ihre tendency to eat many small meals throughout the dayoft 10 to 15 times. Many owners find that leaving a food bowl out allows Korats to graze as they please, aligning with their natural eating patterns.
Übung
Korats have a medium energy level und eine playful, curious nature that necessitates regelmäßige körperliche Aktivität to maintain their health and Langeweile verhindern.
Daily play sessions are crucial to help them expend energy and provide geistige Stimulation. Interaktives Spielzeug, wie zum Beispiel feather wands, laser pointersund Rätselfütterer, are excellent for engaging their intelligent and active minds, simulating their natural hunting instincts.
Activities like playing fetch are often enjoyed by Korats, showcasing their responsiveness and intelligence. Regular exercise also helps prevent obesity and promotes joint health.
Umwelt und Bereicherung
Erstellen einer bereichernde Umgebung is vital for a Korat’s physical and mental well-being, especially for Wohnungskatzen.
Angesichts ihrer curious and observant nature, providing vertikale Räume wie cat trees, condosund shelves allows them to explore different heights und survey their surroundings safely. Access to windows with perches offers geistige Stimulation as they observe the outside world.
Scratching posts are essential for their natural need to stretch and mark territory; these should be sturdy and made of preferred materials wie sisal rope oder cardboard, platziert in prominent areas.
Litter box management is also critical. It is recommended to have at least one litter box per cat, plus one additional box, platziert in different, easily accessible, quiet locations. Most cats prefer large, uncovered litter boxes mit clumping litter.
Körperpflege
Die Korat’s short, single coat ist bemerkenswert wartungsarm, making grooming relatively easy. Unlike breeds with dense undercoats, Korats are less prone to matting.
A weekly brushing session mit einer slicker brush oder grooming glove is usually sufficient to remove loose hairs, distribute natural oils, and maintain the coat’s characteristic silver sheen.
Diese minimale Ablösung also makes them a relatively good choice for individuals with cat allergiesAllerdings keine Katze ist wirklich hypoallergen.
Jenseits von Fellpflege, regular dental hygieneeinschließlich daily tooth brushing, is crucial to prevent periodontal disease.
Geistige Anregung
Angesichts ihrer hohe Intelligenz und curious nature, Korats require consistent mental stimulation to remain happy and well-adjusted.
Puzzle toys that dispense treats or kibble are excellent for challenging their problem-solving abilities and satisfying their natural foraging instincts.
Interactive play mit Stabspielzeug oder laser pointers mimics hunting behavior and provides both physical and mental engagement.
Beyond toys, regular one-on-one interaction with their owners is paramount. Korats thrive on companionship und genießen being involved in household activities.
Short, consistent training sessions using positive Bestärkung und Clicker-Training can further stimulate their minds und die Bindung zu stärken mit ihrer menschlichen Familie. Rotating toys every few weeks can help maintain their interest und Langeweile verhindern.
Gesundheitliche Belange
| Zustand | Beschreibung und Symptome |
| GM1 & GM2 Gangliosidosis | These are rare, inherited, and ultimately fatal neurological disorders that significantly affect the Korat breed, as well as Siamese cats, from which the genetic link likely originated during the Korat’s development. Symptoms typically appear early in kittenhood, around 2-3 months of age, and include head tremors, coordination problems (ataxia, dysmetria), developmental delays, vision loss, muscle spasms, and seizures. The disease is progressive and usually lethal by around one year of age. |
| Hypertrophe Kardiomyopathie (HCM) | This is a common heart disease in cats, where the heart muscle thickens, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. While not exclusive to Korats, it is a significant concern in many breeds. Symptoms can include breathing issues, coughing, or fainting. |
| Polyzystische Nierenerkrankung (PKD) | A genetic condition that causes the formation of cysts in the kidneys, leading to kidney dysfunction over time. Symptoms to monitor include increased thirst, decreased appetite, weight loss, and unusual tiredness. |
| Zahnkrankheit | One of the most common chronic problems in domestic cats, dental disease begins with tartar buildup that hardens on teeth, leading to gum infections and potential tooth loss. Without regular care, this can cause pain and even systemic health issues. Daily tooth brushing and annual professional dental cleanings are highly recommended preventative measures. |
| Fettleibigkeit | While Korats have a low body fat percentage, they can become overweight if overfed. Excess weight significantly shortens a cat’s lifespan and increases the risk of developing conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease). |
| General Feline Infections & Parasites | Like all cats, Korats are susceptible to common bacterial and viral infections such as panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, and rabies. They can also be affected by external parasites (fleas, ticks, ear mites) and internal parasites (hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, whipworms). |
Ist diese Rasse das Richtige für Sie?
| Geeignet für | Nicht geeignet für |
|---|---|
| Owners looking for a deeply affectionate, loyal “Velcro cat” that loves to snuggle and follow them around | People with busy lifestyles or who are frequently away—Korats dislike being alone and may develop behavioral issues |
| Those who enjoy interacting with their cat through play, training, and mental stimulation | Individuals who don’t have time for daily interactive play or engagement |
| Families with older children or respectful pets, with patience for proper introductions | Households with very young children or loud, chaotic environments that may overwhelm a noise-sensitive cat |
| People who prefer soft-spoken, communicative cats rather than loud meowers | People who enjoy or expect vocal, talkative breeds like the Siamese |
| Owners seeking a low-shedding, easy-to-groom breed—weekly brushing is usually enough | Allergy-sensitive individuals looking for a fully hypoallergenic cat (Korats are not hypoallergenic despite low shedding) |
| Cat lovers willing to seek out reputable breeders and wait for a rare, responsibly bred kitten | Those wanting an easily available cat or considering pet stores or unverified sources |
| Individuals who prioritize health screening and are aware of potential genetic risks (e.g., GM1/GM2 Gangliosidosis) | People unaware of or unprepared for potential genetic health concerns and the need for breeder transparency |
| Homes with calm, quiet, and predictable routines | Homes that are frequently noisy, chaotic, or lack a quiet space for the cat to retreat |
| Multi-pet households that can manage balanced attention and prevent jealousy | Homes where another pet receives most of the affection—Korats may become jealous or stressed |
FAQ
Are Korat cats truly hypoallergenic?
No, Korat cats are not considered truly hypoallergenic. However, due to their short, single coat and lower levels of allergenic proteins compared to some long-haired breeds, some individuals with cat allergies may experience fewer reactions.
How can I tell if a blue-grey cat is a true Korat?
Not all blue or grey cats are Korats; the blue color is common in many breeds and mixed-breed cats. The most reliable way to confirm a Korat’s identity is through a pedigree that proves its ancestry originates from Thailand. Key physical distinctions include their unique heart-shaped head, large green eyes, compact and muscular build, and a single, silver-tipped blue coat. Korats are also distinct from Russian Blues and Chartreux in body type and coat density.
Are Korats related to Russian Blue or Chartreux cats?
No, Korats are not related to Russian Blue or Chartreux cats. While they share a similar blue coat color, they originate from different parts of the world (Thailand for Korats, Russia for Russian Blues, and Europe for Chartreux) and have distinct breed standards, including differences in body build, coat type (Korats have a single coat, Russian Blues have a dense double coat), and eye color nuances.
How vocal are Korat cats?
Korat cats are considered moderately vocal. They are less talkative than Siamese cats but are highly expressive and use a variety of soft sounds, chirps, and body language to communicate their needs and emotions, especially when seeking attention or during meal times.
Can Korats be left alone for long periods?
Korats are highly social and crave companionship; they do not do well when left alone for extended periods. If consistently left alone or ignored, they can become withdrawn, stressed, or develop behavioral issues. For households where owners are frequently away, considering a second cat for companionship or ensuring significant interaction when home is advised.
Bonus Fakten
The “Three Hearts” Cat
It is a charming belief among Korat enthusiasts that the breed possesses “three hearts.” One is the visible heart shape of their face, another is the heart shape formed by their head when viewed from above, and the third is their actual, loving heart.
Eyes Like Dewdrops on a Lotus Leaf
An ancient Thai poem poetically describes the Korat’s luminous green eyes as resembling “dewdrops when dropped on the leaf of a lotus,” especially in daylight. This beautiful imagery highlights the captivating quality of their gaze.
Symbol of Prosperity and Marriage
In Thailand, Korats are not just pets but living symbols of good fortune. They were traditionally gifted in pairs to newlyweds to ensure a happy and prosperous marriage.
The Lucky Tail Kink
According to Thai legend, a subtle kink in a Korat’s tail is believed to be an even greater symbol of good luck.
A “Velvet Paw” Ruler
Korats are known for their strong-willed yet gentle personality, often described as ruling their household with an “iron paw sheathed in velvet”. This refers to their demanding nature for attention and involvement, expressed through affectionate persistence rather than aggression.
Historical Scorpion Hunters
In ancient Siam, Korats were reportedly trained to check for scorpions before babies were placed in cribs, showcasing their keen senses and perceived utility beyond companionship.
Eye Color Maturation
Korat kittens are born with blue eyes, which gradually change to amber or yellow during their youth, finally settling into their characteristic brilliant green by the time they reach full maturity, typically between two and four years of age.
Referenzen
Morris, Desmond (1997). Cat World: A Feline Encyclopedia. New York: Penguin Books. pp. 251–253. ISBN 9780670100064.
Cheryl Coleman (2014). “The Korat”. The Cat Fanciers’ Association, Inc. Archived from the original on 25 October 2014. Retrieved 25 October 2014.
Na Thalang, Jeerawat (6 November 2016). “Splitting hairs over cat breeds”. Bangkok Post. Retrieved 8 November 2016.
Lacey, Jen. “Was this the first Korat to be shown?”. KoratWorld. Retrieved 5 January 2013.
“GCCF Registration Policy for Korat and Thai Cats” (PDF). Verwaltungsrat der Cat Fancy. October 2007. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2010-02-16.
Oliver, James A.C.; Mellersh, Cathryn S. (2020). "Genetics". In Cooper, Barbara; Mullineaux, Elizabeth; Turner, Lynn (eds.). BSAVA Lehrbuch der Tierkrankenpflege (Sechste Auflage). British Small Animal Veterinary Association. S. 131. ISBN 978-1-910-44339-2.
Karkamo, Veera; Airas, Niina; Lindén, Jere; Hagner, Karoliina; Mäyränpää, Mikko I.; Kovanen, Petri T.; Sukura, Antti; Kareinen, Ilona (October 2021). “Severe Spontaneous Atherosclerosis in two Korat Breed Cats is Comparable to Human Atherosclerosis”. Journal of Comparative Pathology. 188: 52–61. doi:10.1016/j.jcpa.2021.08.006. ISSN 1532-3129. PMID 34686278.
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