Believed to be a cat of antiquity, having first emerged in Siam – what is now Thailand – the Korat, or Si-Sawat cat as it is otherwise known, was long considered a bringer of good fortune. Highly popular across the Far East, the Korat eventually arrived in England in the 1800s where it was widely shown in competition. A pair of Korats was first imported to the United States in 1959 and it is believed that the modern Korat of today hails from this pair. Reflecting the true ancient heritage of the breed, a Korat features in an old book of poems, believed to have been written between 1350-1767, which is now held in the National Library of Bangkok.
Thought to have changed very little over the centuries, the Korat is an elegant and proportioned cat that is well adapted for climbing and hunting. Possessing long limbs, a rounded body, a broad chest, a unique heart-shaped head and striking ovular eyes, the Korat is both handsome and well modeled. Another trait that is unique to the Korat is its colouring; many describe the ‘halo effect’ given by the coat when light shines upon it. Typically, the single coat is very short, smooth and close-fitting, only observed in the colour silver-blue, and requires minimal grooming to maintain its appearance. Because of its heart-shaped face, traditionally the Korat was thought a good luck charm for brides, and they were often gifted just before a wedding.
These companionable little cats form strong attachments to their human family, displaying love, loyalty and affection. Whilst they are tolerant towards other house cats and dogs, the Korat prefers being the pack leader. Intelligent, playful and full of character, the Korat makes a great addition to family life, providing its needs for attention and mental and physical enrichment are met. The Korat is also in possession of keen senses, including sight, scent and hearing, so this cat will never miss a trick! Typically, an adult Korat will weigh 7-10 pounds depending on its gender, with an average life expectancy of 15 years or more.
Although the Korat is generally a very healthy and resilient breed, it is susceptible to a fatal genetic condition – GM-1 and GM-2 gangliosidosis. Always ensure you purchase from a reputable breeder that can provide health records for their cats.
![[REDACTED] [REDACTED]'s Korat - Fern](http://static2.viovet.co.uk/opt/s=kr/petphotos/117271_532a48466985f8bf5563638bd2170fbe.jpg)
I've been Oscar's owner for nearly 12 years. He's a very loving cat who is always pleased to see me when I walk through the door. I'd describe him as a bit like a little old man as he doesn't like change (moving items around the house or garden can make him grumpy!) and likes to have a routine. He goes crazy when you play with him, darting around the house at lightening speed. As a breed they don't like loud noises and don't have much road sense so Oscar is a house cat but does have access to the back garden where he loves to stalk in the grass and bushes. He's part of the family and lives with a female siamese Phoebe.