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Korat
Origin: Thailand
Weight
6–10 lbs
Height
10–12 inches
Lifespan
10–15 years
Coat
Single, short, fine, and close-lying coat with a silver-tipped blue sheen.
Breeder Cost
$600–$2,000
Adoption Cost
$50–$300
Personality & Temperament
The Korat is a deeply affectionate and highly intelligent cat known for forming exceptionally strong bonds with its human family. They are playful, active, and observant, often participating actively in household activities.
Best For
An attentive owner or family who can spend quality time with them and appreciates an interactive, affectionate feline companion.
Exercise & Activity Needs
Requires moderate daily play and interactive sessions to keep their sharp minds and athletic bodies stimulated.
Grooming & Coat Care
Low maintenance grooming due to the single short coat; weekly brushing is sufficient to remove loose hairs.
Coat type: Single, short, fine, and close-lying coat with a silver-tipped blue sheen.
Common Health Conditions
The Korat is generally a healthy breed. Key health concerns include GM1 and GM2 Gangliosidosis and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). Regular veterinary checkups and health screening of breeding dogs are recommended.
GM1 and GM2 Gangliosidosis
Inherited lysosomal storage diseases that affect the nervous system.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Common heart muscle disease causing thickening of the heart walls.
History & Origin
Originating in the Phimai region of Thailand, the Korats are an ancient natural breed documented in the Cat-Book of Poems from the Ayuttaya Period (1350–1767 AD).
Interesting Facts
- 1
They are often called the 'Si-Sawat' cat in Thailand, referring to their silver-blue color.
- 2
Korats have a unique heart-shaped head when viewed from the front.
- 3
Despite their delicate appearance, they are surprisingly muscular and heavy for their size.
Cost of Ownership
Owning a Korat is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.
Annual Cost
$600–$1,200
First Year (incl. setup)
$1,200–$2,000
High-quality premium cat food
Routine checkups and vaccinations
Minimal professional grooming required
Interactive toys, litter, and scratchers
* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.
Plan daily life with your Korat
Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.
Pet Tech Essentials
The right technology makes cat ownership easier, safer, and more connected — whether you're home or away. These are the products our editors consider must-haves for every cat owner.
Automatic Feeder
Scheduled, portion-controlled meals — no more 4 a.m. wake-up calls for breakfast.
GPS Tracker
Know exactly where your cat is — essential for outdoor and indoor-outdoor cats.
Pet Camera
Check in on your cat anytime — two-way audio lets you hear and be heard.
Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Automatic scooping after every use — your cat always has a fresh box.
Robot Vacuum
Designed for pet hair and litter scatter — runs on a schedule so you never notice the mess.
Recommended Products by Life Stage
Products marked with SmartPaws Recommended are ones we've independently reviewed and recommend across the site. All Amazon links include our affiliate tag — purchases support SmartPaws at no extra cost to you.
Puppy / Kitten Stage
Breed Traits
Temperament
Climate & Physical
Compatibility
Health & Longevity
Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions
Consider Adopting
Many Korats are waiting in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Adoption costs are typically $50–$300 vs. $600–$2,000 from a breeder.
Read our Rescue Guide →Download the Korat Guide
Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.