- Breed name: Korat cat
- Origin: Thailand
- Size: Medium size
- Average life expectancy: 10 – 15 years
The Korat cat originated in Thailand, where it is believed that she brings good luck. Recognizable by its beautiful blue-gray fur, penetrating eyes and heart-shaped face. Extremely active breed, not prone to attachment to space, but to the owner. It is forbidden to buy this breed in Thailand, this cat can only be obtained as a gift.
ORIGIN
Korat originates from Thailand, where the name “si savat” is used for this type of cat, which means “good luck”. The breed was named after the area in northeastern Thailand where it is believed to have originated. In Thailand, it is believed that this cat brings happiness and it is customary to give Korat to newlyweds as a wedding gift with the desire to have a lot of luck and to live in prosperity in a new life together. Also, it is forbidden to buy this cat in Thailand, it is possible to get this breed only as a gift. The first written sources about korat cats are from the 14th century, and the famous Thai book of poems describes this cat as a cat the color of a lotus leaf and beautiful eyes. The first mentionig of a cat resembling this one was in 1896 at an exhibition in England, although there are no reliable data that this breed was in question. The first couple was officially registered in the United States in 1959, when a couple brought pets named Nara and Dara with them upon their return from Thailand, of course they were given as a gift. The breed was officially recognized in 1967, and today it is recognized by all felinological organizations. It is considered a rare and natural breed, which has never been crossed with other breeds, which is why it has kept the same appearance for centuries. The pedigree of this cat must always have its roots in Thailand, and mating is still allowed only within the same breed.
APPEARANCE
The silver-blue fur as well as the penetrating green eyes make the korat cat one of the most beautiful cat breeds. It is very similar to the Russian blue cat, from which it differs in the shape of the head and in that the korat has a single layer of fur not two like the russian blue. This breed usually grows more slowly, reaching its full size only at the age of five. It is the only breed with a heart-shaped head. The root of the coat in a cat’s coat is lighter, the middle is darker blue, while the tip of the coat is almost silvery. No patterns or stains are allowed. When they are born, kittens have blue eyes that turn into a beautiful green color over time as they mature. The skin on the nose and paws can vary from black to lavender. The head, nose and forehead of this cat have a heart shape, and this shape can often be seen on the front of the chest. Their ears are round and large, the neck is strong, the tail is medium in size and tapers towards a rounded tip. The usual weight ranges between 2.5 and 4.5 kg.
CHARACTER
Korat is a very intelligent cat, has a pronounced individual will and can be very possessive towards its owner. This cat tolerates loneliness extremely poorly, which is why they are most often taken in pairs. She is attached to one or a maximum of two people in her family, and she tends to follow her owners every step. She loves children, she is tolerant with them, but she requires personal space and respect, so she is not really recommended for families with very small children. If she is properly socialized, she will get along well with dogs, although the company of other cats, especially of her own breed, suits her better. As this cat is attached to the owner and not to the space, you will not have problems with her in case of moving and changing the environment, she will adapt to the new environment very quickly. She is extremely energetic, loves to play and can easily learn many tricks. She can have a jealous line, especially in relation to other cats – this is especially true for toys and things that the korat considers its property, it will stubbornly guard them. She is not considered to be overly loud, but if she has a reason to rebel, say if her bowl of water or food is empty, she may be prone to making very unusual sounds like chirping and screaming.
HEALTH AND CARE
Unlike her similar Russian cat, Korat does not have a undercoat, but only short hair, which is enough to brush once a week. As a breed, they are prone to losing weight, so proper nutrition is extremely important. As it is a natural breed, which has not crossed with other races, it is considered extremely healthy and resistant and can live longer than 15 years with proper care. This cat has a small amount of fatty tissue, which is why she is sensitive to anesthesia and it is necessary to protect her from the cold. Of the genetic diseases, there are several neuromuscular disorders in their medical history.
Statistics
* Energy level: High level
* Playfulness level: High level
* Relationship to other pets: Friendly
* Attitude towards children: Friendly
* Maintenance required: Moderately easy to maintain
* Independence: Low independence
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