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Khorat Breed Description

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Breed Organization

TICA Executive Office

The Cat Fanciers' Association

Native Country
Thailand

Other Names
Korat, Malet, Si-Sawat

Coat Length
Shorthair

Life Expectancy
No Information Available

General Description

Korats are a slate blue-grey short-haired breed of domestic cat with a small to medium build and a low percentage of body fat. Their bodies are semi-cobby, and surprisingly heavy for their size. They are intelligent, playful, active cats and form strong bonds with people. Among Korats' distinguishing characteristics are their heart-shaped heads and large green eyes. They are one of a few breeds where individuals have only one color. Although it is rare, Korats occasionally have striking or faint white markings or spots or even very faint gray stripes. Sometimes these spots increase in size with age. These are seen as flaws, and the cats are not allowed to be displayed in cat shows, although, of course, it has no effect on their personality or health.


Breed Standard

Head: Heart-shaped when seen from the front. Flat forehead. Slight stop between the forehead and nose. Firm, well-developed cheeks. Muzzle neither pointed nor angular. Long nose, slightly domed at the tip. Strong, well-developed chin. Strong jaws.
Eyes: Large, round, well-spaced, slightly slanted. Preferably luminous green in color. Amber eyes are accepted, especially in young cats. Actually, the final color is not attained before the age of two. Eyebrows form two broad curves above the eyes.
Neck: Medium-sized, long.
Body: Medium-sized, semi-cobby, neither compact nor svelte. Slightly arched back. Strong, muscular, flexible.
Paw: Hind legs slightly longer than forelegs. Medium to heavy bone structure. Oval paws
Tail: Moderately long, thicker at the base, tapering to a rounded tip.
Coat: Short, fine, lustrous, dense hair. Simple coat (no undercoat) tending to stand erect on the spine when the cat is in motion. Even, silver blue color. The tip of the hair is silver, making the coat appear frosted. The nose leather is dark blue-gray. Paw pads dark blue to pinkish lavender.
Fault: Narrow head. Small, closely spaced eyes. Yellow eyes. Nose too long or too short. Pinched chin. Disqualify: any color other than blue. White markings.

History

This independent gray cat brings good luck This natural breed originated in Thailand, where it was first established in the 14th century. It is named after a province in Thailand, where it is considered a bearer of good luck. In fact, its original name, Korat, means culture and prosperity. In The Cat Book of Poems of the Ayutthaya kingdom (1350-1767), this cat is said to have "eyes that shine like dewdrops on a lotus leaf". Specimens were imported and shown in Great Britain in the late 19th century, but without success, since they were seen simply as Siamese cats with blue coats. American breeder Jean Johnson began breeding Korats in 1959. The breed was recognized by the C.F.A. in 1966 and by T.I.C.A. in 1969. Upon its arrival in Europe in 1972, the Korat was approved by the F.I.Fe. Well-known in the United States, the breed is quite uncommon in Europe.

Behavior

The Korat is lively, active, very agile and playful but does not like agitation or noise. He needs a tranquil environment. Korats are not very friendly toward other cats and are reserved toward strangers. Gentle, very affectionate, and hypersensitive, they are highly attached to their owner. They need lots of love and attention. They have a melodious voice. They are easy to groom, as weekly brushing is sufficient.

Health

Extreme Sensitivities to Anesthetics, Vaccines, and Pesticides, Respiratory Infections have been seen in the breed.


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