Thai Cats: Ancient Landrace Descendants of Thailand

Thailand, formerly known as Siam, has a long and well-documented history of breeding some of the oldest, best-known and most popular cat breeds in the world. In Thailand, cats are widely venerated as symbols of good luck and were cherished companions of royalty. The royal cats depicted in the 14th-century Thai Cat Poems manuscript (Tamra Maew) are the ancestors of several breeds we know today.

The Siamese cat

The most famous of the Thai cats, the Siamese originated in Thailand and has been prized in Thai culture for centuries. Siamese cats are known for their pointed colouring and striking blue eyes. They are highly intelligent, active and sociable, often compared to dogs for their loyal and vocal nature.

The Thai cat

The Thai cat, sometimes called the Traditional Siamese or Apple-head Siamese, is the older, more natural form of the breed before the modern show-type Siamese was developed with its extreme wedge-shaped head. The Thai has a rounder face and a more substantial, less tubular body. They are equally vocal and sociable as the modern Siamese and make devoted family companions.

The Korat

The Korat is an ancient breed originating from the Cao Nguyen Khorat plateau in Thailand. They are known for their silver-blue coat and vivid green eyes. Considered a symbol of good fortune in Thailand, Korats were traditionally given to brides as wedding gifts. The Korat is a quiet, loyal and loving cat that typically bonds closely with one person or a small family group.

The Burmese

Although its name suggests a Burmese origin, the Burmese has shared roots with Thailand. The breed as it exists today was developed primarily in the USA from a cat called Wong Mau, brought from Rangoon. The Burmese is a solid, muscular and highly sociable cat that thrives on human company.

The Khao Manee

The Khao Manee, meaning Diamond Eye in Thai, is a rare all-white cat breed with eyes that can be blue, gold or odd-eyed. Considered auspicious in Thailand and historically gifted to royalty, the Khao Manee is now a recognised breed with the major cat fancy organisations. Their striking appearance and affectionate temperament make them increasingly sought-after in the UK.

The Oriental Shorthair

The Oriental Shorthair was developed in the 20th century from Siamese stock. While not strictly Thai in origin, its close relationship with the Siamese gives it strong ancestral ties to Thailand. Orientals are highly energetic, curious and social, and come in an extraordinary range of colours and patterns.

All of these breeds, with their roots in Thailand, carry a rich history and a distinctive character. Cat lovers seeking a loyal, communicative and historically significant companion will find a wonderful pet in one of these Thai-descended breeds. Find cats for sale on Pets4Homes from responsible breeders across the UK.