If you are interested in learning more about the Thai cat, you might be surprised to discover that this breed is not a new creation but a natural and historic one. The Thai cat is descended from the cats of Thailand and has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times. This article will explore the origins, characteristics, and care of this rare and beautiful breed.
What is a Thai cat?
The Thai cat is a natural breed of cat, which means it developed without the need for human intervention. These felines are known for being sociable, talkative, and friendly. Thai cats are also called Wichien Maat or Old-Style Siamese cats.
The Thai cat is closely related to the modern-day Siamese but has some differences in appearance and temperament. The Thai cat has a more moderate body type, with rounder cheeks, a less extreme wedge-shaped head, and a thicker tail. The Thai cat also comes in a wider range of colors and patterns than the Siamese, including seal point, blue point, chocolate point, lilac point, red point, cream point, tortie point, tabby point, and silver point.
The Thai cat has a short coat that is easy to groom and sheds moderately. The coat color is influenced by temperature, so the points (the ears, face, legs, and tail) are darker than the rest of the body. The eyes are always blue and almond-shaped.
The Thai cat is an intelligent and curious breed that loves to interact with people and other animals. They are very vocal and often express their opinions and feelings with various sounds. They are also playful and energetic and enjoy toys and games that challenge their minds and bodies.
Where does the Thai cat come from?
The Thai cat comes from Thailand, where these kitties are known by the name Wichien Maat, which translates into “moon diamond.” These cats have been revered in Thai culture for centuries and are featured in ancient manuscripts called Tamra Maew (Cat Poems), which describe their appearance and personality.
In the 1800s, the breed was brought to Great Britain to be given to the royal family as a gift–a move that helped spread the news about these felines around the world. The first Thai cats to arrive in Europe were mostly seal points or blue points in color.
In the 1900s, breeders began to selectively breed the Siamese for a more extreme look, with a slender body, a long wedge-shaped head, large ears, and a thin tail. The Thai is the Siamese cat before those changes. It’s a native breed still found in Thailand today.
The International Cat Association (TICA) officially gave the Thai advanced new breed status in 2009. These days, you can find Thais in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. So make sure to consider adoption if you decide this is your breed!
How to care for a Thai cat?
The Thai cat is a healthy and robust breed that can live up to 16 years or more. However, like any other cat, they need proper care and attention to thrive.
Here are some tips on how to care for a Thai cat:
- Feed them a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs. Avoid foods that contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Provide fresh water at all times.
- Brush their coat once or twice a week to remove loose hair and dirt. Trim their nails as needed. Check their ears for wax buildup or signs of infection. Clean their teeth regularly with vet-approved toothpaste.
- Provide them with a litter box that is cleaned daily. Scoop out the waste and replace the litter as often as necessary. Keep the litter box in a quiet and accessible location.
- Spay or neuter your Thai cat to prevent unwanted pregnancies and health problems. Consult your vet about the best time to do this procedure.
- Vaccinate your Thai cat against common diseases such as rabies, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline panleukopenia (FPV), feline herpesvirus (FHV), feline calicivirus (FCV), etc. Follow your vet’s recommendations on the type and frequency of vaccinations.
- Keep your Thai cat indoors or provide them with a safe outdoor enclosure. This will protect them from predators, parasites, diseases, traffic accidents, and other dangers.
- Provide them with plenty of toys and activities that stimulate their physical and mental abilities. Play with them regularly and reward them with praise and treats. Avoid harsh punishments or scolding.
- Socialize your Thai cat from an early age with people and other pets. Expose them to different sights, sounds, smells, and situations in a positive way. This will help them become confident and well-adjusted adults.
- Give your Thai cat lots of love and attention. They are very affectionate and loyal cats that crave human companionship. They will often follow you around the house or cuddle up on your lap. They will also communicate with you with their expressive voices.
Is a Thai cat right for you?
The Thai cat is a wonderful breed for anyone who wants a friendly, intelligent, and playful pet. They are suitable for families with children and other pets as long as they are treated gently and respectfully.
However, they are not ideal for people allergic to cats or prefer quiet and independent cats. They are also not recommended for people who work long hours or travel frequently, as they can become lonely and bored without company.
If you think you can provide a loving home for a Thai cat, you will be rewarded with an amazing companion that will enrich your life with its beauty and personality.
What are the types of Thai cats?
The Thai cat breed is diverse and has many colors and patterns. Some of the most common types are:
- Seal point: The original and most popular color of the Thai cat. The points are dark brown or black, contrasting with a cream or fawn body. The nose and paw pads are also dark brown or black.
- Blue point: A dilute version of the seal point, with slate-gray points and a bluish-white body. The nose and paw pads are also slate-gray.
- Chocolate point: A rare and beautiful color of the Thai cat. The points are milk-chocolate brown, contrasting with an ivory or off-white body. The nose and paw pads are also chocolate brown.
- Lilac point: A dilute version of the chocolate point, with pinkish-gray points and a frosty-white body. The nose and paw pads are also pinkish-gray.
- Red point: A striking color of the Thai cat. The points are bright orange or red, contrasting with a cream or white body. The nose and paw pads are also orange or red.
- Cream point: A dilute version of the red point, with pale cream points and a white body. The nose and paw pads are also pale cream.
- Tortie point: A combination of red and black (or blue, chocolate, or lilac) patches on the points, creating a tortoiseshell effect. The body color can vary from cream to white. The nose and paw pads can be either solid or patched.
- Tabby point: A combination of stripes and spots on the points, creating a tabby pattern. The body color can vary from cream to white. The nose and paw pads can be either solid or striped.
- Silver point: A rare and stunning color of the Thai cat. The points are silver-gray with a metallic sheen, contrasting with a white body. The nose and paw pads are also silver-gray.
What are some interesting facts about Thai cats?
The Thai cat is a fascinating breed that has many unique features and traits. Here are some interesting facts about Thai cats:
- The Thai cat is considered a national treasure in Thailand, where they are revered as symbols of good luck, prosperity, and protection.
- The Thai cat is one of the world’s oldest breeds of domestic cats, dating back to at least the 14th century.
- The Thai cat is one of the most vocal breeds of cats, capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from meows to chirps to yowls. They often use their voice to communicate their needs and feelings to their owners.
- The Thai cat is one of the most intelligent breeds of cats, with a high level of curiosity and problem-solving skills. They can learn tricks, open doors, fetch toys, and even use the toilet.
- The Thai cat is one of the most affectionate breeds of cats, forming strong bonds with their owners and family members. They often crave attention and will follow their owners around the house or cuddle up on their lap.
- The Thai cat is one of the most playful breeds of cats, retaining their kitten-like behavior well into adulthood. They enjoy interactive toys, games, and puzzles that challenge their physical and mental abilities.
Where to buy a Thai cat?
The Thai cat is a rare and exotic breed that is not widely available in many countries. If you are interested in buying a Thai cat, you will need to do some research and find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-socialized kitten.
The price of a Thai cat can vary wildly depending on the kitten’s quality, health, color, and pedigree. According to some sources, the average price of a Thai cat can range from $250 to $2500. A wider range than normal, but the price is influenced by the demand and supply of the breed in your area.
One way to find a Thai cat breeder is to check online directories and websites that list registered breeders of this breed. Some of the most recognized cat registries and associations that recognize the Thai cat are:
- The International Cat Association (TICA)
- The World Cat Federation (WCF)
- The Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe)
- The American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA)
You can also contact local cat clubs or rescue groups specializing in Thai or Siamese cats. They may have information about available kittens or adult cats that need a new home.
Another option is to import a Thai cat directly from Thailand, where they are still found as native cats. However, this can be a complicated and expensive process that involves paperwork, quarantine, vaccinations, and transportation. You will also need to find a trustworthy source to provide authentic Thai cats and not mixed breeds.
Conclusion
The Thai cat is a wonderful breed for anyone who loves a friendly, intelligent, and playful cat with a stunning appearance and a rich history. They are suitable for families with children and other pets as long as they are treated gently and respectfully.
However, they are not ideal for people allergic to cats or prefer quiet and independent cats. They are also not recommended for people who work long hours or travel frequently, as they can become lonely and bored without company.
