Korat, a cat breed with a rich history, gets its name from its place of origin, the Korat province in Thailand. Known for their heart-shaped faces and bright, peridot-green eyes, these cats possess not only physical beauty but also a charming personality.
Breed Overview
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Korat |
| Scientific Name | Felis catus |
| Characteristics | Intelligent, Playful, Affectionate |
| Life Span | 10-15 years |
| Build | Medium, muscular |
| Average Weight | 6-10 lbs |
| Average Height | 10-12 inches |
| Coat Length | Short |
| Coat Colors | Silver-blue |
| Coat Pattern | Solid |
| Eye colors | Peridot-green |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Country of Origin | Thailand |
Physical Description
Thanks to their muscular, medium-sized build, Korats have a certain elegance in movement. Typically, they weigh between 6 to 10 pounds and stand 10 to 12 inches tall. The Korat’s most distinguishing physical features are their heart-shaped faces, accompanied by large, round, peridot-green eyes.
Their coat, smooth and short, gleams with a unique silver-blue hue. This coat lies close to the body, emphasizing their well-defined musculature. The Korat’s ears are large and high-set, in proportion to their face, tapering to a rounded tip. Men and women are similar in appearance, though males tend to be slightly larger.
Behavior and Temperament of the Korat
Korats are known to be intelligent, playful, and affectionate. They can be a bit protective, often forming deep bonds with their primary caregivers. Korats are active cats, enjoying playtime and being involved in their owner’s activities. They are known to have good memory, often recalling hideaways and secret spots for their toys.
Korats are social cats that appreciate company, but they also have an independent side. They can become bored if left alone for too long, so providing stimulating toys is recommended. Their social temperament also means they get along well with other pets.
History and Origin
The Korat is a natural breed, originating as early as the 14th century in Thailand, specifically in the Korat province—after which they are named. They are a symbol of good fortune in Thai tradition and were often gifted to newlyweds. At first, they were only kept by Thai royalty.
Korats were first described in the Thai “Cat-Book Poems” dating back to the Ayudhya Period of Siamese History (1350-1767 A.D.). They arrived in the U.S. in the 1950s and were recognized by the Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA) in 1966.
Korat Cat Care
As they sport a single coat that lies close to the body, Korats are relatively low maintenance. Weekly brushing should be enough to keep their coat in top condition. However, they will relish grooming time as it’s another chance to bond with their owner.
They thrive in a stable environment, with plenty of mental and physical activity. Interactive toys and puzzle games are great for keeping them entertained. Being agile jumpers and climbers, they’ll benefit from a cat tree or high perch. They are suitable for indoor living provided they have enough space to move around.
Common Health Problems
Korats are generally healthy, but they can be prone to certain health issues:
- Muscular Dystrophy: A genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness.
- Obesity: Their natural predilection for food necessitates controlled feeding to prevent excessive weight gain.
- Dental Disease: Regular veterinary check-ups and dental care are essential to prevent common dental problems.
Regular veterinary check-ups can help keep an eye on these potential issues.
Where to Adopt or Buy Korat
Consider adopting a Korat from a rescue organization or purchasing one from a reputable breeder. A well-bred Korat kitten will usually be around $600-$800. Always ensure the breeders test for common genetic health problems.
Diet and Nutrition
Korats should consume a high-quality cat food suitable for their age, size, and activity level. Be careful with treats and extras as Korats are prone to obesity. Always provide fresh water. Consult your vet for specific dietary advice.
Comparable Breeds
If you find the Korat intriguing, similar breeds worth exploring include:
- Russian Blue: Distinguished by their striking blue coat and green eyes, along with a notably reserved temperament.
- British Shorthair: Known for their dense coat, broad face, and calm demeanor, making them an ideal companion.
- Chartreux: Features a robust build, blue-gray coat, and a quiet, playful nature.
- Siamese: Recognized for their vocal communication, slender build, and distinctive color points.
For more cat breed profiles, feel free to explore our extensive collection.
FAQ’s about Korat
Is my cat a Russian Blue or a Korat?
Korats and Russian Blue cats can be distinguished by their body shape and eye color. Korats have heart-shaped faces and bright green eyes, while Russian Blues have less rounded faces and their eye color can range from green to yellow.
Is a Korat cat rare?
Yes, Korats are not as common as many other breeds due to their specific silver-blue coat color and original Thai lineage.
Do Korat cats like to be held?
Korats are affectionate cats that typically enjoy the physical attention from their owners, including being held. Each cat has its own preference, so understand your cat’s comfort level.
What are Korat cats known for?
Korats are known for their silver-blue coat, bright green eyes, heart-shaped faces, and playful, intelligent nature. They’re also recognized for their Thai heritage and status as a symbol of good fortune.
Are Korat cats talkative?
Yes, Korat cats can be quite talkative and have a wide range of vocalizations to communicate with their owners.
What age do Korats stop growing?
Korats typically reach their full growth around one year of age, but they continue to build muscle and may alter in shape until they are about 2 to 3 years old.
Do Korat cats shed a lot?
Korat cats have a single coat that they shed minimally, so they don’t drop hair as much as breeds with double coats.