A compact, semi-cobby and muscular cat with a heart-shaped face and large, round, luminous eyes. Its short, fine coat lies flat and tends to part along the spine when the cat moves. Each hair shades from paler roots to a deep blue and ends in a silver tip, giving the whole coat a silvery shimmer.241
Colourssilver-tipped blue (the traditional and CFA colour)some registries also accept Thai Lilac and Thai Blue Point2153
Personality what they are like
Smart, affectionate and very tuned in to its people. It is lively without being hyper, talks with a wide range of sounds and likes a calm household where it can be at the centre of things.231
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate to high. Enjoys interactive toys, climbing structures and puzzle play, and can be taught tricks when it chooses to join in.32
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Minimal: a weekly brush suits the single coat, plus routine nail trims, tooth brushing and ear checks.23
Company who they like around
Bonds strongly and prefers not to be left alone for long; values daily one-on-one time.32
The story where it all began
The Korat is pictured in the Thai cat-book poems written between 1350 and 1767 and was traditionally given, never sold, as a good-luck gift. A pair reached the United States in 1959, CFA granted championship in 1966, and Britain recognised the breed in 1984.125
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Korats were traditionally given in pairs to newlyweds or honoured guests to bring good fortune.1
2
Kittens' eyes start amber or golden-green and turn peridot green by two to four years of age.1
3
The coat's silver tipping keeps developing until the cat is about two.4
4
Old Thai verse compares its colour to clouds and its eyes to dewdrops on a lotus leaf.5
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed is named after the Korat province in northern Thailand, also known as Nakhon Ratchasima Province; in Thailand it is called Si-Sawat, meaning 'colour of the sawat seed'.6
Famous ones stars of the breed
Nara and Darra The first pair of Korats imported into the United States in 1959, brought by Jean Johnson of the Cedar Glen cattery.7
I start the day with a soft meow, reminding my human it's time for play. I solve a puzzle toy for a treat, then chase a laser dot across the floor. I perch on my cat tree, watching the room calmly. After a quiet cuddle, I chat with my human in trills and purrs. I nap in a cozy spot, then wake for evening games. A peaceful, happy day.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
A typical home-care rhythm for a Korat. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Korat tip
Korats can be prone to weight gain, so use treats sparingly and factor them into their daily calorie count. Dental treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) can help support their dental health, but always check with your vet first.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Korat, and at what times?
Feeding frequency and times vary by age, weight and the food you choose. Check the label on your cat's food for portion guidance and ask your vet for a schedule that suits your Korat's needs.
What should a Korat eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality cat food that meets nutritional standards. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, chives, alcohol, yeast dough, caffeine, avocado, citrus, milk, macadamia nuts, raw meat, raw eggs, bones and xylitol.8
Does a Korat need baths?
Baths are rarely needed for a Korat. Only bathe if your cat is very dirty or sticky, as the short single coat stays clean easily.9
How often does a Korat need brushing?
A weekly brush is enough for the Korat's short, fine single coat. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every 7 days.23Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Korat's claws, and how often?
Trim claws every 10 days to 2 weeks, doing no more than two claws per session at first. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests nail trims every 21 days.9Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Korat need?
The Korat has moderate to high activity needs and enjoys daily interactive play, climbing and puzzle toys. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends daily play sessions.32Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Korat's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily if possible, and check ears weekly for dirt or redness. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests tooth brushing every 2 days, with daily being ideal.23Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Korat live?
A Korat typically lives between 12 and 15 years, with proper care and regular vet check-ups.3
Is a Korat good with children and other pets?
The Korat is smart, affectionate and bonds strongly with its people, preferring a calm household. It can be good with children and other pets if introduced gently and given daily one-on-one time.231
Can a Korat be left alone?
The Korat bonds strongly and prefers not to be left alone for long periods. It values daily one-on-one time, so consider a pet sitter or companion if you are away often.32
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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