The Korat cat breed is named after Thailand's Nakhon Ratchasima Province, commonly called Korat.
The Korat is an ancient Thai breed recognized for its silver-blue coat, large green eyes, and heart-shaped face. In Thailand, it is traditionally called Si Sawat, a name associated with its distinctive blue-gray coloring. Korats were historically regarded as symbols of good fortune and were sometimes given in pairs as auspicious gifts.
The breed reached the United States in the 1950s, and American breeders helped establish it internationally. Its coat is short and close to the body, with each hair typically ending in a silver tip that creates a shimmering effect.
Korat cats can be confused with Russian Blues because both have blue coats, but their head shape, body type, and eye-color standards differ. Korat eyes are commonly described as luminous green once mature.