Korat cat breed: for a long time, only those with a “clean past” could keep it

The korat is considered a symbol of purity, happiness and prosperity in its home country, Thailand. This is a particularly precious, noble breed that could not be acquired by just anyone. Get to know this special beauty!

Thailand’s national treasure, the Korat cat has long been a symbol of good luck, with many customs and legends associated with it. For a long time, only those with a “clean past” could keep such cats, as it is such a noble animal. It was a habit to give Korat as a gift to those preparing for marriage. Because this breed is also a symbol of happiness and fertility. And it is also possible that its heart-shaped head contributed to the spread of the tradition.

History

The Korat, also known as the Si-Sawat, is a fascinating cat breed that evolved naturally in Thailand over 900 years ago. It was named after the provincial seat of the country called Korat, which was a major trading hub. However, these beautiful cats were not just traded! Only those who were considered to have a “clean past” could get such an animal. Because it was attributed a special, lucky quality. The Korat is also a symbol of happiness and prosperity. For a long time individuals of the breed were raised in churches.

For the first time, a book of poems from the 14th century mentioned the Korat, which brings prosperity to its owner. At first, one could only get such a kitten as a gift (they were usually given in pairs), and it was often given to brides, as it is also a symbol of prosperity and fertility. According to some sources, Korats in Siam (modern day Thailand) were trained to check cradles for scorpions before babies were placed in them. In the Korat province, it is still customary to carry such a kitten around the village, while the locals sprinkle the animal with water. It is believed that the cat’s meow softens the hearts of the rain-giving heavens. It is interesting that King Rama V loved the breed so much that he ordered a state funeral every time one of his peers died.

In addition to Si-Sawat, another Thai name and description for Korat is: “The body of the Maled cat is like Dok Lao. The hairs are smooth, their bases are like clouds, and their tips are like silver. The eyes are like dewdrops shining on the lotus leaf.” (Dok means flower, and lao is an herb like lemongrass with silver-tipped flowers.)

It is not clear when the breed first arrived in the West. In 1896, a cat resembling a Korat was presented at an exhibition in England, but it is not known whether it was actually a Korat. The first known Korats imported to the United States arrived in 1959. They were given as a gift to an American couple who returned to the United States after the husband retired from the Foreign Service. The Cat Fanciers’ Association recognized the breed in 1967. Two years after Korat breeders founded the Korat Cat Fanciers’ Association to promote the breed.

Breed standard

The Koratcat is a medium-sized, muscular, elegantly built, slender cat. Its body weight is about 3-4 kg. Its head is heart-shaped, its nose is very short, with a slight stop. The ears are medium-sized, broad-based and set high. Its gaze is sparkling, the eyes are large, emerald in adult individuals, yellowish in youngsters. Its fur is shiny, silky to the touch, and has no undercoat. The colour is silvery gray. Its hind legs are longer than the front ones, the paws are oval and small. The tail is of medium length. Its life expectancy is 15 years on average.

Character

The smart and self-conscious Korat likes to stay close to the family. It gives its heart to one or two people whose company it prefers. But it is certainly willing to accept the love of others as well. This is an energetic cat that loves to learn tricks, play fetch and even walk on a leash. It’s easy to train if you get lots of praise and treats in return.

The Korat rules its household with an iron paw wrapped in velvet. It loves attention and likes to think of itself as the leader. When you are at home, it will always be near you. The Korat is less talkative than its Siamese cousin, but it definitely knows how to express itself both verbally and with body language. You’ll know when it doesn’t approve of what you’re doing or when it’s time for dinner.

Ideal environment

The Korat is very happy when it can rest on its owner’s lap and happily follow its favourite family members around the house all day long. It’s important to have lots of games to keep it busy. Like all cats, Korat will love cat trees. It’s no coincidence that in the past only couples gave Korat as gifts. The breed does not tolerate loneliness well, it always requires someone’s company. Otherwise, it may suffer from separation anxiety or develop behavioral problems.

If you don’t like someone constantly vying for your attention, the Korat is not for you! It likes to follow its owner and monitor the family’s every move. It easily adapts to different living situations and feels good even in a smaller apartment. It doesn’t like loud noises or a lot of fuss because it is a gentle cat, one of whose favorite pastimes is snuggling on its owner’s lap.

Care

Its coat is easy to care for, it is enough to brush it twice a week, and there is nothing more to do with it. Claws should be cut shorter if they grow too long. The owner should always pay attention to the cleanliness of the eyes and ears.

Common health problems

The Korat predisposes to a fatal genetic condition that has two forms: GM-1 and GM-2 gangliosidosis. This occurs when cats lack certain enzymes that are necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Fortunately, tests are available to identify cats that carry the disease, so the condition is uncommon.

Corats typically have a low body fat percentage, so veterinarians must take this into account when determining how much and what type of anesthetic to administer when a Korat is undergoing any type of surgery.

(Literature: János Szinák – István Veress: Cat Guide, Laura Aceti – Viola Autieri: Our beest friend, the cat)