The Korat is a natural breed of domestic cat from Thailand, instantly recognizable for its shimmering silver-blue coat, heart-shaped face, and vivid green eyes. Revered for its gentle temperament and cultural symbolism, the Korat stands as one of the world’s oldest and most cherished feline breeds.
Originating in the Korat province of Thailand, the Korat’s lineage stretches back centuries, with references in ancient Thai poetry and art as early as the 14th century. Imported to the United States in 1959 by Cedar Glen Cattery, the breed was formally recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association in 1966. Unlike many modern breeds, the Korat is a natural breed, developed without intentional crossbreeding, and its pedigree is preserved through strict standards that prohibit outcrossing.
The Korat belongs to the species Felis catus, within the domestic cat taxonomy. It is classified as a distinct natural breed, recognized by major international cat registries including the CFA, TICA, FIFe, and GCCF. The breed stands apart due to its unique genetic heritage and lack of subtypes or varieties, maintaining a stable standard across regions.
Korats are medium-sized, muscular cats with a semi-cobby body and short to medium-length legs. Their most striking features are a heart-shaped head, luminous green eyes, and a short, fine coat that lies close to the body. Each hair is silver-tipped, creating a shimmering blue effect that is both elegant and distinctive. Kittens may display amber or yellow eyes, which gradually transition to the breed’s signature green by age two.
Korats are cherished companion animals, valued for their intelligence, alertness, and affectionate nature. They form deep bonds with their owners, often seeking out attention and interaction. In Thailand, Korats are traditionally gifted to newlyweds or esteemed individuals as symbols of prosperity and good fortune, reflecting their high regard in local culture. The breed’s gentle disposition and loyalty make it an ideal family pet.
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Buy ShirtIn Thai culture, the Korat is considered a living symbol of luck and prosperity. The breed is often featured in ancient literature and art, and gifting a Korat is a gesture of honor and goodwill. The name "Si-Sawat" refers to the auspicious color of the sawat fruit, further cementing the Korat’s role as a harbinger of good fortune. Its revered status has helped preserve the breed’s purity and prominence throughout history.
Korats are alert, intelligent, and deeply affectionate. They thrive on companionship and often become strongly attached to their owners, seeking attention and interaction. Their gentle, loyal nature makes them well-suited to families, and they are known for being both playful and sensitive to their environment.
Korats are generally robust and healthy, but they can be prone to gangliosidosis (GM1 and GM2), a genetic disorder for which responsible breeders routinely screen. With proper care and regular veterinary check-ups, Korats typically enjoy a long, healthy life.
The Korat’s short, fine coat requires minimal grooming—occasional brushing is sufficient to keep it sleek and free of loose hair. Regular health screenings, especially for genetic conditions, are recommended. Korats appreciate interactive play and thrive in environments where they receive affection and mental stimulation.
The Korat is renowned for its uniform silver-blue coat, with each hair tipped in silver, creating a luminous, shimmering effect. No other colors or patterns are recognized in the breed standard, ensuring the Korat’s distinctive appearance remains consistent worldwide.
While individual Korats may not be widely known in popular media, the breed itself is celebrated in Thai folklore and ancient manuscripts, such as the "Tamra Maew" (Cat Book Poems). The first Korats imported to the United States by Cedar Glen Cattery in 1959 are notable for establishing the breed’s presence in the West.
The Korat maintains a single, strict breed standard worldwide, with minimal regional variants. In Thailand, it is known as "Si-Sawat," referencing the auspicious sawat fruit. The breed’s purity is preserved by prohibiting outcrossing, resulting in consistent traits across all recognized Korats.
