Breed Overview
| Characteristic | Description |
| Personality | Gentle, Intelligent, Affectionate, Cautious, Active, Playful, Loyal, Curious, Social, Demanding (in terms of attention), Emotionally attuned, Sensitive to noise, Routine-loving, Strong-willed, Alert |
| Body Type | 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 |
| Weight | 6-10 lbs (2.7-4.5 kg); males can exceed 10 lbs |
| Origin Region | Thailand (specifically Korat province, Siam) |
| Lifespan | 10-18 years (most sources indicate 10-15 or 12-16 years) |
| Coat | Short, single coat (no undercoat), silky, fine, soft, dense, lies close to the body, glossy |
| Coat Color | Silver-tipped blue (blue-grey with a silver sheen/tips), solid, no patterning (ghost tabby markings in kittens fade) |
| Shedding Level | ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Low) |
| Affectionate Nature | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very High) |
| Care Difficulty | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Moderate to Low) |
Introduction
The Korat cat, an ancient and revered feline originating from Thailand, is often celebrated as the “Good Luck Cat” or “Si-Sawat” in its native land.
This captivating breed is immediately recognizable by its distinctive silver-blue coat and striking emerald-green eyes, which are said to symbolize prosperity and happiness.
With a heritage steeped in Thai folklore and a history stretching back centuries, the Korat embodies both mystical allure and a profound connection to its human companions. Its regal appearance and affectionate nature have contributed to its growing admiration worldwide.
This ancient breed, with its captivating silver-blue coat and luminous green eyes, has been cherished for centuries, not only for its striking beauty but also for its gentle temperament and deep bond with humans.
Breed History
The 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).
This ancient manuscript illustrates 17 different “good luck” cats of Thailand, with the 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.
This cultural practice meant they were never sold, highlighting their revered status and contributing to their rarity outside of Thailand even today.
Beyond their symbolic value, Korats also served practical purposes in ancient Siam, reportedly being trained to check for scorpions before babies were placed in cribs.
Their unique appearance has remained largely unchanged over centuries, preserving their distinct features. The breed first made its way to the United States in 1959, imported by Jean Johnson, with Daphne Negus later bringing additional Korats in 1969 to strengthen the nascent bloodlines in the country.
Physical Characteristics
The Korat cat is a medium-sized feline, typically weighing between 6 and 10 pounds (2.7–4.5 kg), though mature males can sometimes exceed this weight.
They possess a compact, muscular, and robust “cobby” build, often feeling surprisingly heavier than their appearance suggests, with no significant fat stores.
Their bodies are characterized by smooth curves, a short, heavy neck, and a broad chest that is slightly wider than their shoulders. Their 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.
The tail is generally long and slender, heavier at the base and rounded at the tip, with a subtle kink sometimes present, which is considered an even greater symbol of luck in Thai tradition.
Perhaps the most defining feature of the Korat is its distinctive heart-shaped head. This unique facial structure is formed by prominent eyebrow ridges, high cheekbones, and a rounded, tapered muzzle, creating a captivating outline.
Their ears are large, with flared bases and rounded tips, set high on the head, further contributing to the heart shape. The eyes are large, luminous, and wide-open, appearing 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 by 2–4 years of age.
The Korat’s coat is another hallmark of the breed. It is short, single-layered (meaning no downy undercoat), soft, fine, silky, and 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.
Behavior and Personality
The Korat cat is renowned for its intelligent, affectionate, and loyal nature, often forming exceptionally strong bonds with its human companions.
They are often described as “Velcro cats” due to their desire to stay physically close to their favorite people—whether snuggling on a lap, sitting nearby, or following their owners from room to room, eager to be involved in daily activities.
This profound need for companionship means they do not thrive when left alone for extended periods and can become withdrawn or even aggressive if their social needs are consistently unmet.
While generally gentle and sweet, Korats also possess a “demanding” and “dominant” streak, often described as ruling their household with an “iron paw sheathed in velvet.”
They are expressive communicators, using a range of soft sounds, from quiet chirps of satisfaction to more insistent meows, though they are generally less vocal than their Siamese relatives.
Korats are highly intelligent and curious, enjoying exploration and mentally stimulating activities. They are quick learners and can be taught tricks, such as playing fetch, and some can even be leash-trained.
Despite their social nature, Korats are also sensitive to their environment. They thrive in calm, consistent homes and can become startled or stressed by 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 jealousy if another pet receives significant attention.
Care Guide
Diet
Korats, like all cats, are natural predators and require a 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 is their tendency to eat many small meals throughout the day, often 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.
Exercise
Korats have a medium energy level and a playful, curious nature that necessitates regular physical activity to maintain their health and prevent boredom.
Daily play sessions are crucial to help them expend energy and provide mental stimulation. Interactive toys, such as feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders, 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.
Environment & Enrichment
Creating an enriching environment is vital for a Korat’s physical and mental well-being, especially for indoor cats.
Given their curious and observant nature, providing vertical spaces like cat trees, condos, and shelves allows them to explore different heights and survey their surroundings safely. Access to windows with perches offers mental 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 like sisal rope or cardboard, placed 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, placed in different, easily accessible, quiet locations. Most cats prefer large, uncovered litter boxes with clumping litter.
Grooming
The Korat’s short, single coat is remarkably low-maintenance, making grooming relatively easy. Unlike breeds with dense undercoats, Korats are less prone to matting.
A weekly brushing session with a slicker brush or grooming glove is usually sufficient to remove loose hairs, distribute natural oils, and maintain the coat’s characteristic silver sheen.
This minimal shedding also makes them a relatively good choice for individuals with cat allergies, though no cat is truly hypoallergenic.
Beyond coat care, regular dental hygiene, including daily tooth brushing, is crucial to prevent periodontal disease.
Mental Stimulation
Given their high intelligence and 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 with wand toys or 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 and enjoy being involved in household activities.
Short, consistent training sessions using positive reinforcement and clicker training can further stimulate their minds and strengthen the bond with their human family. Rotating toys every few weeks can help maintain their interest and prevent boredom.
Health Concerns
| Condition | Description & Symptoms |
| 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. |
| Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (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. |
| Polycystic Kidney Disease (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. |
| Dental Disease | 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. |
| Obesity | 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). |
Is This Breed Right for You?
| Suitable For | Not Suitable For |
|---|---|
| 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 Facts
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.
References
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). Governing Council of the 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 Textbook of Veterinary Nursing (Sixth ed.). British Small Animal Veterinary Association. p. 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.