A medium-sized, muscular cat of semi-foreign build with a softened wedge-shaped head. The whole body is one even, warm copper-brown, often compared to tamarind pulp, with no tabby markings, and the eyes glow yellow to gold.1
A clever, affectionate and playful cat that bonds closely with its people and often trails them from room to room, much like a dog. It is chatty and lively and prefers company to long hours alone.12
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate to active. Around 15-20 minutes of interactive play a day, plus climbing spots and toys, keeps it fit and content.2
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Low effort: brush a few times a week to catch loose hair, trim nails regularly and bathe only when needed.2
Home where they are happiest
Happy indoors with vertical space, scratching posts and toys; best in a home where someone is around for much of the day.12
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Needs a complete, balanced cat food built around animal protein, with fresh water always available; portion treats so the cat stays trim.2
Company who they like around
Very people-focused and does not enjoy solitude, so it suits households that can offer steady company.1
The story where it all began
The Suphalak is pictured in the Tamra Maew, cat-book poems from the Ayutthaya era of Thailand. Legend says Burmese forces carried many of these copper cats away when Ayutthaya fell in 1767, which is offered as a reason for their rarity. Modern preservation work began only recently, and the first one registered in the West was a cat named Thonga in 2015.1
According to legend, King Hsinbyushin of Burma took Suphalaks home after sacking Ayutthaya in 1767.1
3
The first Suphalak born outside Thailand arrived in Michigan in 2015.1
4
A Suphalak appears in the 2015 Thai film 'Cat a Wabb'.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name Suphalak comes from Thai (ศุภลักษณ์), meaning 'auspicious' or 'beautiful,' while the alternative name Thong Daeng (ทองแดง) translates to 'copper,' referring to the cat's solid reddish-brown copper coat.1
Famous ones stars of the breed
Samsen The only known Suphalak male in a breeding program, living at the Thai Cat Preservation Center in Ampawa, Thailand.1
Thonga The first solid copper-chocolate Suphalak exported from Thailand, imported to the United States in 2013 and later registered with the American Cat Association.1
I wake up before the sun, padding softly to the kitchen to greet my human with a gentle trill. They laugh and scratch my ears, and I follow them from room to room, my tail high like a little flag. After breakfast, we play with a feather wand, I leap and twist, showing off my copper coat. Then I curl up on their lap while they read, purring like a tiny motor. In the afternoon, I chat about bird shadows and sunbeams, and they always answer back. When evening comes, I settle on the windowsill, watching the stars, content in my cozy kingdom.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
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 Suphalak, and at what times?
Your Suphalak's feeding schedule depends on its age, activity and the food you use. Follow the label on the complete cat food and ask your vet for the right portions and times. Always keep fresh water available.2
What should a Suphalak eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a complete, balanced cat food with animal protein as the main ingredient. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and xylitol; cats are especially sensitive to onion and garlic. For a full list, check with your vet.23
Does a Suphalak need baths?
Baths are rarely needed for a Suphalak. Only bathe if the cat is very dirty or sticky, as over-bathing can dry the skin. Furry Diary's plan does not include regular baths, so only bathe when truly needed.24
How often does a Suphalak need brushing?
Brush your Suphalak a few times a week to catch loose hair; its short coat is low-maintenance. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing once a week, but more often during shedding seasons is fine.24Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Suphalak's claws, and how often?
Trim your Suphalak's nails every 10 to 14 days, or as needed. Start slowly, doing just two claws per session, and use proper cat nail clippers. Furry Diary's plan suggests every three weeks, but adjust based on nail growth.24Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Suphalak need?
Your Suphalak needs about 15 to 20 minutes of interactive play daily, plus climbing spots and toys to stay happy. Furry Diary's plan includes daily play sessions to match its active nature.2Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Suphalak's teeth and ears?
For teeth, Furry Diary's plan suggests brushing every two days, with daily being ideal using a cat-safe toothpaste. Ear cleaning needs vary; ask your vet for the best routine and check weekly for dirt or redness. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Suphalak live?
A Suphalak typically lives 10 to 12 years. With good care, regular vet visits and a healthy diet, they can enjoy a full lifespan.2
Is a Suphalak good with children and other pets?
Suphalaks are affectionate and playful, so they often do well with respectful children and other pets if introduced slowly. Their people-focused nature means they enjoy company, but always supervise early interactions.12
Can a Suphalak be left alone?
Suphalaks dislike being left alone for long periods. They are very people-focused and may become lonely or anxious if left alone all day. If you work long hours, consider a companion cat or a pet sitter.12
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.
Korat
Thai
Burmese
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