Korat Cat: Thailand's Silver-Blue Good Luck Cat

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

In Thailand, the Korat is a national treasure. Known as Si-Sawat, a name that suggests good fortune, these silver-blue cats have been admired for centuries, and are traditionally given to newlyweds to bring prosperity. Their elegant look, with a heart-shaped face and glowing green eyes, is matched by a loyal, sensitive nature.

History

The Korat is one of the oldest natural breeds. It takes its name from Nakhon Ratchasima, nicknamed Korat, a province on the Khorat plateau of Thailand. The cats are described in the Tamra Maew, or Cat Book Poems, an old Thai manuscript that lists cats with auspicious qualities. The breed reached the United States in 1959, and later spread to Europe and elsewhere. Careful breeding has preserved the original type, and the Korat remains rare outside Thailand. See the Russian Blue and Chartreux profiles for other blue-coated breeds with different origins.

Appearance

The Korat is a small to medium cat with a muscular body that feels heavier than it looks. The coat is short, glossy, silver-tipped blue, which creates a shimmering effect. The only recognized color is blue, and the tipping gives a silvery sheen.

The head is heart-shaped, with a prominent brow and a gently curved profile. The eyes are large, round and luminous green, though kittens have amber or gold eyes that gradually change, and the green develops by two to four years of age. Ears are large, with rounded tips. Weight is typically six to ten pounds.

Personality

Korats are intelligent, active and deeply attached to their families. They often choose one person and follow them around, and they may be slow to accept strangers. They enjoy being near their people, and they like to be involved in daily activities. They are playful, and they like puzzle feeders, climbing and games of fetch.

They are sensitive. Loud noises, rough handling, sudden changes and long periods of isolation can upset them. A calm household with a stable routine suits them best. See cat separation anxiety and leaving a cat alone.

They tend to be dominant among other cats, and may do best with gentle, similarly sized companions. See how to introduce a new cat to your cat. They are not very vocal, but they chatter softly when pleased.

Grooming

The Korat's short single coat needs minimal care. Weekly brushing, or a rub with a soft cloth, removes loose hair and brings out the sheen. See how to brush a cat. Bathing is rarely needed. Brush teeth, trim nails and check ears. See how to trim cat nails.

Health

Korats are generally healthy and long-lived, often reaching fifteen to twenty years. A few points to know:

• Genetic conditions. Rare inherited diseases, such as gangliosidosis (a storage disease), have been found in some lines. Responsible breeders use DNA tests to avoid them.
• Sensitivity to anesthesia and medications. Some vets are cautious with this breed. Mention the breed to your vet.
• Dental disease and weight gain. See cat dental disease and how much should I feed my cat.
• Stress-related illness. Because they are sensitive, stress can lead to digestive or urinary problems. See feline idiopathic cystitis.

Keep vaccinations current. See cat vaccination schedule.

Is it the right cat for you?

The Korat is a good match for owners who want a devoted, intelligent, quiet cat and who can offer a calm home. It is a poor match for a loud household with young, boisterous children or for those who are away for long hours. See best cat breeds for apartments.

Finding a Korat

Korats are uncommon, so expect waiting lists. Choose breeders registered with recognized associations, who test for genetic conditions, raise kittens in the home and provide records. See how to choose a kitten. Because kittens look different from adults, with eyes that start out amber, be sure of the breed's pedigree.

Living with a Korat

Provide climbing trees, perches and interactive toys. See how to choose a cat tree and indoor cat enrichment ideas. Maintain a calm routine, and give a quiet place to retreat. See why do cats hide. Identify your cat with a microchip. See cat microchipping and identification.

When to see a vet

See a vet if your Korat becomes withdrawn, stops eating or has changes in litter box habits. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.