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Need to Know
- Benefits from an experienced owner
- Needs a high level of enrichment including simulated hunting games and interactive play
- Highly active and inquisitive cat
- Sociable and dependent cat
- Slightly talkative cat
- Average build cat breed
- Requires frequent grooming
- Needs extensive outdoor space
- Can be left alone all day
- Needs a calm environment
Personality
Perhaps more curious than your typical cat, Korat cats stay on the move and adore exploring new spaces. This breed is quick learners who enjoy playing with interactive toys to keep their intelligent minds busy. They’re also big cuddle bugs, sure to show their family lots of affection as well as loyalty.
The ancient Korat cat breed hails from the city of Korat in Thailand, hence their name. History records show evidence of Korat cats from as early as 1350, during which they were considered among the 17 “lucky” cat breeds. In 1959, Korat pair Nara and Darra journeyed to Oregon, marking the breed’s U.S. arrival.
An owner ready for interactive companionship will enjoy a Korat’s loyalty and curiosity. Korat cats love luxuriating in the spotlight and appreciating their adoring family. Because of their sensitivity, this breed does best in calm, consistent environments.
These swanky kitties pair their posh appearance with big energy and perhaps bigger curiosity. They’re a playful breed that requires mental stimulation like puzzles in addition to interactive play (think: laser pointers). Korats enjoy cat trees on which they can scratch and climb.
Supervised outdoor playtime can be helpful if there’s a secure outdoor space available. Otherwise, Korats do great even in rather small places, as long as they get their physical and mental exercise. If possible, they appreciate having some personal space in which they can relax and recharge.
Plan to use a gentle brush a couple of times a week to keep a Korat cat’s coat shiny and free of loose hair.
For training a Korat, consistency, positive reinforcement, and patience are key. It’s also a good idea to aim to keep sessions on the shorter side. Some Korat cat owners find using a clicker for training beneficial.
The Korat cat breed develops strong bonds with their families as affectionate companions. They’re very adaptable to varying home environments however, it’s still ideal if they have access to their own private retreat space.
The cost of a Korat from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.
Learn more about feeding and caring for your Korat on Purina.
Did You Know?
- Korat cats are born with blue eyes that gradually change to green as they grow.
- The Kora cat’s trademark blue coat is rare: each hair is light at the root, dark in the middle, and silver at the tip. This creates a mesmerizing halo appearance.
- In Thailand, Korats were considered royalty and were sometimes exchanged as luxurious gifts.
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