Table of Contents
Introduction
The Korat is an elegant, parading, and beautiful kind of cat, which has a silver-blue color of fur, green eyes, and is also accompanied by symbolism that is centuries old in trade (Thai culture). People think that the Korat brings good luck, and in the history of Thailand, this cat has been loved since the Korat is viewed as a beautiful, bright, and affectionate animal.
The article is devoted to all the information in which you have to be aware of the most interesting cat breed Korat: its fascinating history and unique appearance, its character, its care needs, and the reasons why it can be a fantastic selection as a pet among people who simply cannot live without a cat.
The Ancient History of the Korat
Origins in Thailand
Korat originated in old Siam, which is presently called Thailand. Korat is also referred to as Si-Sawat among the locals and is one of the oldest breeds of naturally occurring cats. It is attributed to the province of Korat in the northeastern area of Thailand, where the breed was found and loved.
It is extracted in the Tamra Maew or Cat Book Poems, a set of manuscripts dating back to Ayutthaya (13501767). The breed was believed to have a strange divine nature; therefore was usually offered to a new couple in marriage or to the visitors of good repute to bring blessings, wealth, and fertility.
Introduction to the West
The breed was very esteemed in Thailand as early as the 15th century, but the Korat had not been widely recognized outside Thailand until the 20th century. It became known in the USA in the 1950s when a pair of couple came with a couple when a couple was on a visit in Thailand. CFA recognized the breed in 1966, and since then it has kept on gaining popularity as a result of having a small number of its committed followers worldwide.
Appearance: The Silver Charm of the Korat
Korat is an immensely beautiful cat, and an easy recognition can be made by means of a short coat with silver-blue shimmer and greenish color of green in the eyes of the cat. It is unique and beautiful in terms of its features, and the majority of the features are of symbolic value to the Thai society.
Coat and Color
- Color: The coat is a special kind of silver-blue, and the hair shafts have tips that are light silver. This makes the coat glossy, almost halo-like, as the cat moves.
- Texture: The coat is very close-fitting, short, and fine. It is silky and soft.
- Color Standards: Korats only possess this coat color, and any other color is not accepted in the purebred Korats.
Eye Color
- Green Eyes: The largest difference about the Korat is the big, round, and bright green eyes. Kittens could either possess amber or golden eyes or turn green upon maturity, which is at 2-4 years.
- This amplifies the mysticism and attractive nature of the breed because of the intensity of the green eyes.
Body and Features
- Size: Medium-sized and muscular, of a semi-cobby build.
- Weight: It is usually 6 to 10 pounds.
- Head formation: Heart-shaped with a wide forehead and a fine chin.
- Ears: Long, broad-based, rounded.
- Tail: The tail is medium in length and tapering towards the end, which is rounded.
Personality and Temperament
The Korat is not only beautiful, but its personality attracts hearts very quickly. The features of these cats are loyalty, intelligence, and a close relationship with humans.
Loyal and Devoted
One-person cats are popularly referred to as the Korats since these pets are intensely faithful to a single companion. They are very clingy, and they prefer having company. They have the ability to accompany their owners everywhere in the house, and they also prefer to curl up or cuddle with them.
Intelligent and Curious
The breed is very intelligent and alert. Korats like puzzles, trying out new surroundings, and even learning easy tricks. They will be able to open doors, bring their toys, or arrive at their name.
Playful but Gentle
Korats are fun-loving in nature and not one that is prone to hyperactivity. They like interactive games and do not like noise. Although they are social, they are wary or hesitant around new people.
Vocal but Soft-Spoken
The Korats can also be recognized by their unique voice since it is more of a chirp, alternately a trill, as opposed to a meow. They are not loud and talkative, though they tend to chatter the most, using their voice to show affection or to draw your attention to something.
Check Out: Khao Manee Cat – Breed#20.
Living with a Korat: Care and Environment
Grooming Needs
The Korat’s short, fine coat requires minimal grooming.
- Brushing: Brushing once per week will be enough to brush off loose hair and add shine to the coat.
- Bathing: Very seldom required, unless required on account of allergies or dirt.
- Nail trimming and dental care: Cats need to have their nails cut off regularly and teeth brushed.
Diet and Nutrition
Dietary practices of high protein content and nourishing diet are advantageous in the muscular system of the Korat and health in general.
- Select commercial brand cat food that contains meat as a main ingredient of high-quality.
- Learn to divide food so as not to get obese, because Koreans are not exceptionally active.
- There must be a constant supply of fresh water.
Activity and Enrichment
- Korats are fond of play, interaction, and brain-thinking toys.
- Puzzle feeders, feather wands, and climbing objects are optimal.
- They enjoy spending time with their humans and require at least some social interaction; otherwise, they will either get bored or lonely.
Health and Lifespan
Korats are a fairly healthy cat breed; however, Korats can fall prey to all the genetic disorders just like any other purebred cat.
Common Health Issues
- GM1 and GM2 Gangliosidosis: These are metabolic disorders that can be screened by responsible breeders, which are rare and inherited disorders. The cats affected are usually not able to survive beyond the young kittenhood period.
- Respiratory Sensitivity: There is a possibility that some Korats will exhibit slight respiratory sensitivity because they have a shorter nose and are exposed to smoke, allergens.
- Sensitivity to Anesthesia: Anesthesia is an issue with most low body fat breeds, so make sure you have a vet with experience with that breed.
Lifespan
- With care, Korats can on average live up to 15 and 18 years (or more), and this therefore creates a long-lasting companion.
Ideal Home Environment
For Families and Singles
Korats love residing in places with lots of family attention. They are appropriate:
- People who are single are looking to have a good companion.
- Families or spouses with older children who know how to play in respectful manner.
- A combination of pets, when carefully put together. Korats tend to enjoy the company of other cats and also dogs.
Indoor Life
They should be kept indoors because of how valuable and rare Korats are. This shields them against hazards such as traffic, predators, theft, and illness.
Finding and Adopting a Korat
Responsible Breeders
Korats are expensive animals, and since the breed is rather uncommon, it is necessary to go to a reliable breeder.
- Seek breeders who do genetic health tests.
- Take a visit to the cattery when possible or ask to have virtual tours.
- Case overloads and a high price (normally 1000-2500 side of the extra side , depending upon location and pedigree) should be anticipated.
Adoption Options
Breed-specific rescues or shelters are possible sources of some Korats. It is good to get in touch with agencies such as:
- The Korat Cat Association
- Breed rescue groups
- Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet
Why Choose a Korat?
Deciding on a Korat is like inviting a beautiful and smart cat that is also faithful, who will be full of character. The breed is suitable in case the person would like to have a significant relationship with his/her pet, not only a companion, but also a contender in everyday life. Korats not only require low grooming, but they are also good-tempered and affectionate.
Are you interested in having an exclusive cat with their roots in ancient times with a loving heart? Then maybe you found the right feline in the Korat.
Conclusion
The Korat is elegant, a history lover, and heart heart-filling creature. With its silvery-blue coat, which is both glimmering and silver in color, and the bright green eye, this old breed continues to enthrall cat owners around the world. However, behind the beauty, there is an exceptionally loyal, smart, and loving cat that creates a loyal pet.
If you are alone or you live with a family and are also looking to adopt a cat that has extremely strong bonds, likes to play interactively, and is the clutch of cats, at least according to the Thai legend, then what you are looking for is a rare gem named the Korat.
When given care, attention, and love, a Korat may be your good friend through many happy years.
For more info: Click Here.
FAQs
1. Are Korats hypoallergenic?
Korats do not belong to the hypoallergenic category. This is even though they do not shed as intensely as the long-haired breeds, and are of fine coat type, but they do cause allergens to occur, such as the protein, as in the case of the long-haired breeds, which can cause irritation to the allergy sufferer. Some minimally cat-allergic people can actually tolerate cats, but the same can not be said about everyone.
2. Are Korats friendly to children and pets?
Yes, Korats are mostly friendly with well-behaved kids and other animals. The thing is in early socialization. They like the company but are wary to start off with. Other animals should be slowly and carefully introduced.
3. Are the Korats suitable first-time cats?
Korats may also be a good first cat idea and especially when one is also interested in a companionable and smart cat. But they require a lot of companionship and therefore are not suitable for a person who is not around home most of the time.
