Natives of Phimai, Thailand, Korat cats are named after the Nakhon Ratchasima province, which is nicknamed Korat by the people of Thailand. Interestingly, the Korat cat is locally known as Si Sawat, which translates to “The color of sawat seed.” Korat cats are first mentioned in the Thai Tamra Maew, also known as The Cat-Book Poems, which features entries that were written beginning as early as 1350 CE. Until recently, Korat cats were only given away as gifts; they were never sold. At times, they were gifted to important community members as a sign of respect and appreciation. Korat cats eventually made their way to Britain, where they were called Blue Siamese. Since these cats did not conform to Siamese standards, they were sometimes shown in Russian or “Any Other Blue” classes. A cat breeder named Mrs. B. Spearman had a deep appreciation for these graceful feline and attempted to import more of them into England, but was unsuccessful. Korat cats appeared in the West again when Cedar Glen Cattery imported a breeding pair to the US in 1959. CFA granted the Korat cat championship status in 1966 and today, these incredible cats are recognized by breed registries worldwide. Most registries only recognize Korat cats with short, single coats that feature hairs with light silver blue roots and deeper blue hair shafts that lighten again to silver at the tips. The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy now recognizes Korat-type cats in solid lilac color, Colorpoint blue, and lilac Colorpoint, respectively known as Thai Lilac, Thai blue Point, and Thai Lilac Point. Even though these cats are incredibly desirable, the Korat remains notoriously difficult to find.