Korat
Thailand
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 2.5–4.5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 yrs
- affectionate
- intelligent
- gentle
- devoted
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Korat
The Korat is an old breed from Thailand, where it has traditionally been considered a lucky cat. It reached the West in the mid-twentieth century. It is a medium-sized cat with a silver-tipped blue coat, a heart-shaped face and large, luminous green eyes, which often take a few years to reach their final colour.
Temperament
Affectionate, intelligent and sometimes possessive of its people. Korats tend to prefer a calm home and can dislike sudden noise. They often prefer to be the only cat or to live with familiar companions.
Play & activity
Moderately active. Enjoys interactive games and puzzles. A couple of play sessions a day with plenty of attention suits it.
Grooming
The single coat sheds little and needs only a weekly stroke with a soft brush or hand.
Care & wellbeing
Some lines carry gangliosidosis, a rare inherited neurological disease for which a test exists, so it is worth asking breeders about it. Gradual introductions help with new pets.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 3.5 kg adult- Water
- 140 ml–210 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 220 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 20–30 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Korat
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Korat is a silver-blue cat from Thailand, long treasured there as a symbol of good fortune. It has a heart-shaped face and large green eyes. It forms strong bonds and is sensitive to noise and change.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Gangliosidosis (GM1 and GM2)
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- GM1 and GM2 DNA tests
Not every Korat is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Korat right for you?
Could suit
- Homes that can offer daily play sessions
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Common questions
How big does a Korat get?
Adult Korats typically weigh around 2.5–4.5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Korats live?
Typically 12–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Korat?
Expect to spend around 20–30 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Korat need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Korats affectionate?
Usually friendly, with a balance of company and independence. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Korats shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Korats good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Korat live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Korats have?
The breed can be prone to gangliosidosis (gm1 and gm2). Not every Korat is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.