Korn Ja

Also called Konja, Maew Dam, Ninlarat

Rare breedShort profile

From Thailand; a native black cat described in the Thai Tamra Maew cat-book poems and one of Thailand's traditional Maew Boran cats.1 2 3

At a glance the quick version

Sizesmall

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, glossy solid black coat

A small, short-haired cat in deep, glossy black, likened to onyx or ink, usually with golden eyes. Old descriptions also mention a white stripe running from the chin down the chest and belly, a detail rarely looked for today.1 2

Colourssolid black2 1

The story where it all began

The Korn Ja is one of the cats pictured in the traditional Thai cat-book poems and is common among Thai village and temple cats. Folk belief linked it to protecting the home from misfortune, and Thailand has recently named it one of its five native breeds.1 3

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
In Thai tradition the black Konja was thought to guard households against bad luck.3
2
Its coat gloss is often compared to onyx or black ink.1
3
The European Bombay is described as the closest Western match to this black Thai cat.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Korn Ja' is associated with a solid black cat from Thailand, often described with bright yellow or golden eyes, and appears in discussions of traditional Thai cat breeds.4

Name ideas for your new friend

MaliChaiNokDaoFahKwanSukiTawanPloySomYimLek

A day in the life told by a Korn Ja

I am small and sleek, and my black coat shines like a moonless night. My day starts with a long stretch on the cool tile, then I follow my human to the kitchen, weaving between their ankles as they pour my breakfast. After eating, I find a sunbeam on the windowsill and groom my paws, watching the world outside. When my human sits to read, I curl up on their lap, my purr a gentle rumble. In the afternoon, I chase a red laser dot across the floor, leaping and pouncing with joy. As evening falls, I groom my human's hair, a sign of my affection. Tonight, I'll sleep at the foot of the bed, a small, warm shadow.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Thai government: Listed among five native cat breeds recognised as part of Thailand's national identity (reported 2026)3
TIMBA: Registered as a standard colour variety of the Maew Boran1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Korn Ja. 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

Cat-Friendly Pancakes

A simple, no-bake treat that is high in protein and low in fat, making it a suitable occasional reward for cats who gain weight easily.

You need

1 tin of tuna in water, no salt added
1/2 cup finely diced cooked chicken
1/2 cup pure sweet potato puree (no added sweeteners)

How

Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl.
Break the tuna into small bits with a fork.
Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
Slowly stir in the sweet potato puree until the mixture binds together, being careful not to make it too watery.
Shape the mixture into mini pancakes.
Serve to your cat as an occasional treat.

How much: Give small amounts occasionally, as treats should not exceed 10-15% of daily calorie allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Tuna Biscuits for Cats

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.

Recipe from PDSA

Tuna Catnip Biscuits

A vet-approved recipe from PDSA that uses simple ingredients to create a tasty, crunchy treat your cat will love.

You need

145g tuna chunks in spring water
120g plain flour
1 tablespoon dried catnip
1 egg

How

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
Drain the tuna and mix it with the flour, catnip and egg in a bowl until a dough forms.
Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Use a small cookie cutter to cut out biscuit shapes.
Place the biscuits on a greased baking tray and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
Allow to cool completely before serving.

How much: One biscuit equals 10% of your cat's recommended daily calories. Reduce their main meal by 10% on treat days.

Recipe from PDSA

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 Korn Ja, and at what times?

Feeding schedules depend on your cat's age and activity. Ask your vet for a plan that suits your Korn Ja. Furry Diary doesn't have specific times for this breed.

What should a Korn Ja eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a balanced, high-quality cat food. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol (see ASPCA list). Always check with your vet for the best diet.5

Does a Korn Ja need baths?

Korn Jas have short, glossy coats and rarely need baths. Only bathe if very dirty or sticky, as per ASPCA guidance. Regular brushing keeps them clean.6

How often does a Korn Ja need brushing?

Brush your Korn Ja once a week to keep their short coat glossy. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing, and ASPCA agrees for short-haired cats.6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Korn Ja's claws, and how often?

Trim claws every 10 to 14 days, as ASPCA recommends, taking no more than two claws per session at first. Furry Diary's plan suggests every 21 days, so adjust based on your cat's wear and comfort.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much play does a Korn Ja need?

Korn Jas need daily play to stay happy and healthy. Furry Diary recommends at least one play session each day. Interactive toys are great. Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Korn Ja's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth every two days (daily is ideal) as Furry Diary suggests. For ears, check regularly and ask your vet for specific care routines. Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Korn Ja live?

Lifespan varies for each cat. Ask your breeder or vet for typical expectations for this breed.

Is a Korn Ja good with children and other pets?

Temperament varies by individual. Ask a reputable breeder about the cat's personality and socialization.

Can a Korn Ja be left alone?

Cats are independent, but needs vary. Ask your vet or breeder for advice on leaving your Korn Ja alone.

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.