Korat

The Korat is a rare, natural cat breed from Thailand, known for its shimmering silver-blue coat, heart-shaped face, and strong bond with its people. It is medium-sized but feels surprisingly heavy and is prized in Thai culture as a "good luck" cat.

Origin and history

• The Korat originates from the Nakhon Ratchasima ("Korat") region of Thailand and is considered one of the country's oldest natural breeds.
• In Thai culture it is called "Si-Sawat" and has long been regarded as a national and lucky cat, traditionally given as a gift for good fortune.

Appearance

• Korats are small to medium, muscular cats with a semi-cobby, compact body that often feels heavier than it looks.
• They have a distinctive heart-shaped head, large wide-set green or greenish-amber eyes, and a short, single-layer coat that is blue-grey with silver-tipped hairs that give a rain-cloud, shimmering effect.

Temperament

• Korats are intelligent, active, and playful cats that form very strong attachments to their people and often want to be involved in whatever is happening.
• They are sociable and affectionate but can be sensitive to noise and change, and many are somewhat vocal when they want attention, though not as loud as Siamese cats.

Care and activity needs

• Their short, single coat is low-maintenance and usually needs only weekly brushing, though they do require plenty of interactive play and mental stimulation, such as hunting-style games and climbing opportunities.
• Because they thrive on companionship and can get bored, Korats do best in homes where people are around often and can provide a safe, enriched indoor (or secure outdoor) environment.

Health and suitability

• The breed is generally healthy and long-lived, but responsible breeders screen for certain genetic conditions such as gangliosidosis, which has been seen in some lines.
• Korats suit experienced owners who want an engaged, people-focused cat; they can be wonderful with respectful children and other pets but may not be ideal for very noisy or chaotic households.

Summary Table

Aspect	Korat details
Origin	Nakhon Ratchasima ("Korat") region of Thailand; one of Thailand's oldest natural breeds.
Cultural significance	Called "Si-Sawat" in Thai culture; regarded as a national and lucky cat, traditionally given as a gift for good fortune.
Size and build	Small to medium, muscular, semi-cobby, compact body that feels heavier than it looks.
Distinctive features	Heart-shaped head, large wide-set green or greenish-amber eyes, shimmering silver-blue coat with silver-tipped hairs.
Temperament	Intelligent, active, playful, forms very strong attachments to people; sociable but sensitive to noise and change.
Care needs	Low-maintenance coat (weekly brushing); requires plenty of interactive play, mental stimulation, and companionship.
Health	Generally healthy and long-lived; breeders screen for genetic conditions like gangliosidosis.
Best suited for	Experienced owners who want an engaged, people-focused cat; homes with regular human presence and enrichment.

The Korat combines ancient Thai heritage with a distinctive appearance and deeply affectionate nature, making it a treasured companion for those seeking an intelligent, people-oriented cat with cultural significance and a unique shimmering coat.

References

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