Korat
The Good
- Extremely intelligent and trainable
- Forms deep, loyal bonds with their families
- Low grooming requirements with minimal shedding
- Naturally healthy breed with few genetic issues
The Real
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- May become vocally demanding for attention
- Rare breed with limited availability in Australia
- Takes time to warm up to strangers
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Korat is a stunning silver-blue cat that's been treasured in Thailand for over 900 years as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. These medium-sized cats are instantly recognisable by their heart-shaped faces, large luminous green eyes, and distinctive silvery-blue coat that shimmers like silk in the light.
What makes Korats truly special isn't just their beauty—it's their remarkable intelligence and devotion to their families. These cats form incredibly strong bonds with their humans and genuinely want to be involved in every aspect of daily life. Unlike some breeds that are content to observe from afar, Korats prefer to shadow their favourite person throughout the house, offering quiet companionship and the occasional conversational meow.
Originally given as wedding gifts in Thailand to bring good fortune to newlyweds, Korats maintain that special, almost mystical quality today. They're patient with children, adaptable to various living situations from Melbourne apartments to Brisbane houses, and possess an uncanny ability to read their owner's moods. However, their strong attachment means they don't handle long periods alone well, making them ideal for work-from-home professionals or retirees who can appreciate their constant, gentle presence.
History
The Korat's story begins in Thailand's northeastern plateau, where these cats developed their distinctive blue-grey coats to blend with the granite outcrops of their homeland. Ancient Thai literature, particularly "The Cat-Book Poems" from the Ayutthaya period (1350-1767), lists the Korat among 17 lucky cat breeds, cementing their status as sacred animals.
For centuries, these cats were never sold—only given as precious gifts to bring prosperity and fertility to newlyweds. Thai tradition held that presenting a pair of Korats to a bride would ensure a happy marriage and abundant harvests. This gift-giving custom kept the breed pure and rare, as they were treasured possessions of Thai royalty and nobility.
The breed's journey to the Western world began in 1959 when American cat enthusiast Jean Johnson received a breeding pair, Nara and Darra, from a friend in Bangkok. These two cats became the foundation of virtually all Korat bloodlines outside Thailand. Remarkably, today's Korats remain virtually unchanged from their ancestors—they're one of the few breeds that hasn't been altered through modern breeding practices.
The Cat Fanciers' Association recognised the breed in 1966, but Korats remain exceptionally rare worldwide. Their limited gene pool and the careful breeding practices required to maintain their health mean that finding a Korat in Australia requires patience and often involves waiting lists with dedicated breeders who prioritise quality over quantity.
Traits & Characteristics
Korat characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Korats are generally robust cats with excellent health records, largely because they've remained genetically pure without excessive breeding manipulation. Their typical lifespan of 15-19 years makes them wonderful long-term companions for Australian families. However, responsible ownership means being aware of one serious genetic condition: GM1 gangliosidosis, a neurological disorder that affects some bloodlines.
GM1 gangliosidosis appears in kittens around 2-3 months of age, causing vision loss, difficulty walking, head tremors, and progressive neurological decline. Thankfully, reputable breeders test their breeding cats for this condition, and affected kittens are rare when proper screening is conducted. Always request genetic testing documentation when considering a Korat puppy.
Australian Climate Considerations:
During Australia's intense summer months, particularly in regions like Adelaide or Perth where temperatures soar above 35°C, ensure your Korat has access to air conditioning or cool tiles to rest on. Their short coat provides less insulation than long-haired breeds, making them more comfortable in moderate temperatures. Provide multiple fresh water sources and consider cooling mats during heatwaves.
Winter care varies dramatically across Australia—while Darwin owners rarely need heating considerations, Melbourne and Canberra Korat owners should provide warm bedding and draft-free sleeping areas when temperatures drop below 10°C. Their lean build means they feel the cold more than stockier breeds.
Like all cats, Korats benefit from regular dental care, annual vet check-ups, and staying current with vaccinations. In tick-prone areas along Australia's eastern coast, discuss tick prevention with your vet, and always check for paralysis ticks during peak season.
Korats thrive on high-quality commercial cat food that meets Australian standards for complete and balanced nutrition. Their naturally stocky build means portion control is crucial—these cats can easily become overweight if free-fed, which puts strain on their compact frames and can lead to health issues down the track.
Feed adult Korats twice daily with measured portions appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level. A typical adult Korat weighing 3.5kg might need around 250-300 calories daily, but this varies based on individual metabolism and lifestyle. Korat kittens require more frequent meals—three to four times daily until six months of age—with kitten-formulated food to support their growth spurts.
Australian Feeding Considerations:
During scorching summer days across northern Australia or inland regions, many cats naturally eat less during peak heat hours. Offer smaller, more frequent meals during cooler morning and evening periods. Keep wet food refrigerated and discard any left out for more than 30 minutes in temperatures above 30°C to prevent spoilage.
Winter appetites often increase, particularly for Korats living in cooler climates like Tasmania or the Blue Mountains. Monitor body condition closely and adjust portions accordingly—you should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard, but they shouldn't be visible.
Fresh water is absolutely critical, especially during Australia's dry seasons. Many Korats prefer running water, so consider a pet fountain if your cat seems reluctant to drink from bowls. During bushfire season or periods of poor air quality, ensure water bowls are covered and changed frequently to prevent contamination.
Avoid feeding any human foods, particularly chocolate, onions, garlic, or grapes, which are toxic to cats. If you're considering raw diets, consult with an Australian veterinary nutritionist to ensure balanced nutrition and food safety compliance.
One of the Korat's most appealing qualities for busy Australian families is their incredibly low-maintenance grooming needs. Their single-layer coat lacks the dense undercoat that causes matting and excessive shedding in many breeds, making them perfect for anyone who wants a beautiful cat without the daily brushing commitment.
A weekly brush with a soft-bristled brush or rubber grooming mitt is typically sufficient to keep their silvery coat gleaming. During seasonal changes—particularly autumn when many cats naturally shed their summer coat—you might need to brush twice weekly. The key is consistency rather than intensity; these cats prefer gentle, regular grooming sessions over infrequent marathon brushing sessions.
Coat Specifications:
- Coat Length: Short, single-layered coat that lies close to the body
- Coat Colours: Blue-grey with distinctive silver tips creating a shimmering effect
- Coat Patterns: Solid colour only, though kittens may show faint tabby markings that fade
- Hypoallergenic: No, but their minimal shedding may suit people with mild cat allergies
Australian Climate Grooming Tips:
In humid coastal areas like the Gold Coast or Cairns, ensure good air circulation around your Korat's sleeping areas to prevent skin issues. Their short coat dries quickly after baths, but most Korats rarely need full baths unless they've gotten into something messy.
During dry inland Australian winters, some Korats may develop flaky skin. A weekly wipe with a damp cloth can help remove dust and distribute natural oils. If you notice excessive scratching or skin irritation, consult your vet—dry air from heating systems can affect even short-coated breeds.
Regular nail trims every 2-3 weeks, weekly ear checks, and daily tooth brushing complete their grooming routine. Most Korats tolerate grooming well, especially when started young, making these tasks easier for first-time cat owners navigating apartment living or rental property requirements.
Korats are exceptionally intelligent cats that genuinely enjoy learning and problem-solving, making them a dream for owners who want an interactive feline companion. Their high intelligence means they can master tricks, respond to their names reliably, and even learn to walk on a harness—perfect for apartment dwellers wanting to safely explore Melbourne's laneways or Brisbane's riverside paths.
Start training early with positive reinforcement using treats, praise, or play as rewards. Many Korats excel at fetch, readily retrieving small toys and bringing them back for another throw. This makes them ideal for families with children who want an engaging pet, though always supervise interactions to ensure respectful play.
Mental Stimulation Essentials:
Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys are crucial for preventing boredom in these clever cats. Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty, and consider interactive apps designed for cats if you work from home and want to provide entertainment during video calls. Korats particularly enjoy toys that mimic hunting behaviours—feather wands, catnip mice, and laser pointers (always end sessions with a physical toy they can "catch").
Socialisation Strategies:
While naturally somewhat reserved with strangers, proper socialisation helps Korats become confident, well-adjusted adults. Expose kittens gradually to household sounds—vacuum cleaners, washing machines, and doorbell rings. For families expecting visitors during holiday seasons or weekend barbecues, practice having strangers over regularly so your Korat learns these situations are normal.
Australian Lifestyle Integration:
Create vertical territory with cat trees or wall-mounted shelves, especially important in smaller spaces common in Sydney or Melbourne apartments. Korats love observing their domain from high perches, and this satisfies their need for environmental control while keeping them entertained watching street activity or backyard wildlife.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Korat owner is someone who genuinely wants a feline companion rather than just a pet—these cats thrive with people who appreciate their intelligence and desire for involvement in daily life. They're particularly suited to work-from-home professionals, retirees, or shift workers who can provide consistent companionship and mental stimulation throughout the day.
Korats excel with owners who enjoy interactive relationships with their pets. If you're the type who talks to your cat, appreciates their "helpful" supervision of household tasks, and doesn't mind a furry shadow following you from room to room, a Korat will be your perfect match. They're ideal for people living alone who want genuine companionship without the demands of a dog.
Housing Considerations:
These adaptable cats suit various Australian living situations, from inner-city Melbourne apartments to suburban Brisbane homes with secure yards. They're excellent for rental properties due to their quiet nature and minimal damage potential. However, they do need environmental enrichment—vertical spaces, window views, and interactive toys become crucial in smaller spaces.
Lifestyle Compatibility:
Korats aren't suited to families who are frequently away or those wanting a low-interaction pet. They can develop separation anxiety and may become destructive or depressed if left alone for long periods. However, they're perfect for empty nesters, couples working flexible schedules, or families with older children who understand respectful pet interaction.
First-time cat owners often find Korats rewarding due to their trainable nature and clear communication of needs. Their longevity means they're excellent choices for people wanting a long-term companion—many Australian Korat owners report 17-19 years of devoted companionship.
Interesting facts about the Korat
Interesting Fact
Korats were never sold in their native Thailand—only given as precious gifts to bring good luck and prosperity to newlyweds
Interesting Fact
Their heart-shaped face is considered one of the breed's most distinctive features, clearly visible when viewed from the front
Interesting Fact
The breed's name comes from the Nakhon Ratchasima province (formerly called Korat) in northeastern Thailand
Interesting Fact
All Korats worldwide can trace their lineage back to cats imported directly from Thailand, making them one of the purest cat breeds
FAQ
True Korats have very specific characteristics: a distinctive silver-tipped blue-grey coat, heart-shaped face, large green eyes, and stockier build than similar breeds like Russian Blues. A cat DNA test can provide definitive breed identification if you're uncertain.
While both breeds have blue coats and green eyes, Korats are stockier with heart-shaped faces and silver-tipped coats, while Russian Blues are more slender with wedge-shaped faces and solid blue coats. Temperament-wise, Korats are more playful and demanding, while Russian Blues tend to be quieter and more reserved.
Korats are generally patient with respectful children and enjoy interactive play. However, they have little tolerance for rough handling or overly boisterous behaviour. They're best suited to families with older children who understand proper pet interaction.
Korats are among the lowest-shedding cat breeds due to their single-layer coat. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient, making them excellent for Australian families concerned about cat hair on furniture or clothing.
Expect to pay $1,500-$3,000 AUD for a pedigreed Korat kitten from a reputable Australian breeder. The high cost reflects their rarity and the careful breeding required to maintain genetic health. Budget additional costs for pet insurance, quality food, and veterinary care.
Yes, Korats adapt well to apartment living in cities like Sydney or Melbourne, provided they have adequate mental stimulation and vertical space. Their quiet nature makes them excellent for body corporate regulations, though they do need companionship and shouldn't be left alone for long periods.
Korats generally cope well with Australian temperatures due to their short coat, but they need access to cool areas during extreme heat. Provide air conditioning or cooling mats during summer, especially in regions like Perth or Adelaide where temperatures regularly exceed 35°C.
Korats are extremely rare in Australia, with only a handful of dedicated breeders nationwide. Expect waiting lists of 12-18 months for kittens. Contact the Australian Cat Federation or attend cat shows to connect with reputable breeders who health test their breeding cats.