Ironically one of the oldest breeds in the world has taken centuries to reach countries such as the US or capitals throughout Europe, we are talking about korat cats, originating in Thailand , where they are considered bearers of fortune and good luck. In this article on our site we will investigate about these mysterious cats with piercing eyes that promise to win the hearts of many with their character and their adorable appearance, so read on to discover all about the korat cat
Origin of the korat cat
Korat cats are native to the Thai province of Cao Nguyen Khorat from which they take their peculiar name and where it is said that their color was the bluest. In Thailand, the existence of these cats has been recorded since before the 14th century, specifically since the year 1350, since manuscripts from that time already included descriptions of cats of this breed.
As a curious fact, the korat breed receives other names such as Si-sawat or fortune cat, since in Thai that name would literally translate as “lucky charm” or “color of prosperity”.
On the other hand, and continuing with the history of the korat cat, it was not until the 19th century that the breed reached the West, for example, it arrived in the United States in 1959, a decade before to arrive in Europe. It is therefore a breed that, despite being very old, has not become popular until a few years ago. So much so that the breed was recognized by the CFA in 1969 and by the FIFe in 1972.
Characteristics of the korat cat
Korat are small-medium cats, although there are quite small cats, being considered one of the 5 smallest cat breeds in the world. Their weight is usually between 3 and 4.5 kilograms, with females being slightly smaller than males.
The body of these felines is slender and graceful in appearance, but that doesn't stop it from being muscular and strong Its back is arched and its hind legs are somewhat longer than the front ones. The tail is of medium length and thickness, although thicker at the base than at the tip, which is rounded.
The sweet face of korat cats is heart-shaped, with a fine chin and a wide, flat forehead against which they stand out. his arched eyebrows, which is why the set has that characteristic shape. It has particularly large eyes and round, usually a intense green color, which gives them It provides a very attentive and special look, although there are also specimens with blue eyes. The ears are large and set high and the nose is developed but not pointed.
Without a doubt, within the characteristics of the korat cat, the most particular thing is the coat, short or semi-long, slightly varying in length from one specimen to another, but all individuals have the color of their hair in common, since they have a coat of an intense silver-blue color, without spots or more shades than that.
Korat cat care
Since we are dealing with a fairly strong cat whose coat, being short, does not need more than brushing a week, with a brush appropriate for this, the care that the korat cat must receive will be related to its food, which must be sufficient and balanced, toexercise , since it is recommended that they enjoy times of games and activity so as not to become restless, and at honey , vital for all pets. In this sense, it is essential that they enjoy adequate environmental enrichment, with a variety of toys, scratching posts at different heights and even shelves so that they can rest on them, since cats love heights.
We must also pay attention to the state of their eyes, paying attention to whether they show rheum or cry, their ears, which must be clean, or the care of their teeth and mouth, it being advisable to brush them dental regularly.
Korat Cat Character
Korat are very affectionate and calm cats, who enjoy the company of their guardians. Of course, he will need a more detailed socialization in the event that he is going to live with children or other pets, since sometimes he may be reluctant to share his home with them, but nothing that a good social education cannot solve. In this sense, it should be noted that this training will be facilitated by the great intellectual gifts of these cats, as they are capable of assimilating new teachings with surprising ease.
Adapts to life in different environments, so it doesn't matter if you live in a flat in the city or in a rural house, korat are able to be happy if all their needs are met. In addition, this breed is famous for all the love and affection it lavishes on its own, as well as for its passion for games and the attention we give them. It should be noted that they especially enjoy playing games of search and tracing.
We will know if they are happy or enjoying themselves, since They are very communicative both visually and audibly, meowing to convey their feelings to their tutors. In this way, the character of the korat cat stands out for being totally transparent and direct.
Korat Cat He alth
Despite the fact that they are he althy cats and quite long-lived, an average of 16 years of life, this does not mean that they cannot suffer from various diseases. One of them is gangliosidosis, which affects the neuromuscular system, although its onset is early and it is usually diagnosed in the first months of life.
Except for this pathology, we won't have to worry too much about serious congenital diseases. We will have to pay attention to deworming and compulsory vaccinations, as well as carry out frequent veterinary check-ups to assess the general state of he alth of the korat cat and keep it free of diseases and infections.