Korat cat breed: facts, temperament and care
A small, muscular silver-tipped blue cat from Thailand with heart-shaped face and green eyes, long seen as a symbol of good luck.
Also known as Korat cat, Si-Sawat, Good Luck cat
Quick facts
| Origin | Thailand |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Typical weight | 6-11 lb (2.7-5 kg); males are larger |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Coat length | Short |
| Coat | Short, fine, glossy single coat that lies close to the body |
| Colours and patterns | Silver-tipped blue only; any other colour is a show fault |
Recognition
| Cat Fanciers' Association | Championship breed since 1966 |
|---|---|
| How common | Rare |
Temperament and care (1 low, 5 high)
| Affection | 5 |
|---|---|
| Energy | 4 |
| Playfulness | 4 |
| Talkativeness | 4 |
| Grooming needed | 1 |
| Shedding | 2 |
| Good with children | 3 |
| Good with other pets | 3 |
| Happy alone | 2 |
| Trainability | 5 |
| Suits a small home | 4 |
Allergies and health
| Allergies | No breed is hypoallergenic. The single coat sheds lightly, but people who react to cats may still react to this one. |
|---|
Best suited to
| Suits | A quiet, settled home with one or two attentive people who like a clever, devoted cat. |
|---|---|
| Less suited to | A noisy household with rough play, or a home empty for most of the day. |
Registries that recognise it
- CFA
- TICA
- FIFe
- GCCF
Health conditions to watch
- GM1 gangliosidosis
- GM2 gangliosidosis
About the Korat
The Korat is an old Thai breed named after Nakhon Ratchasima province, which is commonly called Korat. A poem collection from the Ayutthaya period, the Tamra Maew, may describe it, though the illustration is not definitive. In Thailand the cats were traditionally given as wedding gifts as a symbol of luck and happiness. Jean Johnson imported the first pair into the United States in 1959, and the CFA granted championship status in 1966.
The Korat is small to medium and heavier than it looks, with a semi-cobby, muscular body. The head is heart shaped when seen from the front, with big, round, luminous eyes that turn green as the cat matures. Kittens' eyes are amber or golden-green and the full colour comes at two to four years. The coat is short and fine, and the only accepted colour is silver-tipped blue. The silver tipping on each hair gives a halo effect. The nose and paw pads are dark blue to lavender.
Temperament and living with one
Korats are clever, playful and devoted. They bond closely with their people, follow them from room to room and talk in a soft voice. Many learn tricks and enjoy puzzle feeders. They are alert to sound and sudden change, and some are easily startled, so quiet homes suit them best.
They get on with other cats and dogs but can be bossy. A Korat often wants to be the only favourite. They do poorly when left alone for long hours.
Care: coat, food and play
The coat is low maintenance, with weekly brushing enough. Trim nails, brush teeth and clean ears as needed. Feed a complete diet in measured meals. Korats mature slowly, taking two to four years to reach full size, so check your kitten food with your vet.
Provide climbing space, interactive play and a safe window perch.
Health
The Korat is generally healthy. Two serious inherited diseases are known in the breed, GM1 and GM2 gangliosidosis, which affect the nervous system. DNA tests exist, and responsible breeders test their breeding cats. Heart and artery disease has been reported but the cause is unclear. Ask a breeder for test results, and ask your vet about routine care.
Is it right for you?
Choose a Korat if you want a devoted, intelligent cat that thrives on one-to-one attention and a calm routine. If you want a larger blue-grey cat, look at the Russian Blue or the Chartreux. Breeders are few, so expect a wait.
Profile last reviewed November 7, 2026