Felicitous Felines: Beliefs About Thai Cats and Breed Characteristics

[snoop1130]

Thailand has long been recognized as the birthplace of some of the world’s most extraordinary feline companions. These enchanting cats have not only captured hearts with their striking beauty but have also become intertwined with Thai culture and beliefs.

 

Some believe that owning a Siamese cat brings good luck and prosperity. Others trust that the Khao Manee, with its striking white coat and mesmerizing eyes, is a symbol of spiritual enlightenment.

 

These beliefs weave a whimsical tapestry around Thai cat breeds, infusing them with an air of mystique. So, whether you’re seeking a four-legged companion or hoping to invite some good fortune into your life, Thai cat breeds are the “purrfect” blend of beauty, charm, and feline magic!

 

Pawprints of the past: Thai cats and their enduring heritage

 

It comes as no surprise that Thai cats have an entire manuscript written about them. The Tamra Maew, meaning, “Cat Treatise” or “The Cat-Book of Poems,” dates back to the eighteenth century, and is said to have been written by Buddhist monks. In it, these fuzzy felines have been described, praised, and drawn so intricately, that scholars, researchers, and cat lovers turn to it even today.

 

Rummaging through the Tamra Maew, one comes to learn that Thailand was once home to over 20 distinct cat breeds—some known to bring good luck, and the rest regarded as harboring negative symbolism. Thanks to the British Library, there’s an excellent digitized copy of the manuscripts available for all to access on the internet.

 

But despite Thai cats’ cultural, spiritual, and mythical relevance, many of them are nearly extinct. As for the five original breeds that survive to this day, efforts to conserve their population are well underway.

 

Wichien Maat: The royal cat of Siam

 

 

Sleek bodies, mesmerizing blue almond-shaped eyes, and an air of elegance that would make any cat lover weak at the knees. That’s Wichien Maat for you—the royal cat of Siam. Their cerulean eyes result from a genetic trait specific to the cat breed and are where it gets the name ‘Moon Diamond’ from.

 

There’s a lot worth learning about the Wichien Maat. These regal kitties are no ordinary house pets. They are highly intelligent and curious and enjoy interacting with their humans, thus earning the moniker “Meezers.”

 

Back in the day, Siamese cats were the crème de la crème, reserved exclusively for the Thai royal family. They were treasured like precious gems, representing good luck and prosperity. It was believed that when a loved one passed away, their soul would find a new home in the body of a Siamese cat.

 

Suphalak: Rare yet prized

 

 

Commonly known as Thong Daeng (Thai for “copper” or literally “red gold”), this Thai cat breed came to prominence during the Burmese-Siamese war in the 18th century. The sacking of Ayutthaya led to the transfer of many royal treasures to Burma (present-day Myanmar), including the Tamra Maew.

 

Upon discovering the awe-inspiring nature and energies of Suphalak cats as detailed in the Cat Treatise, the king of Burma commanded his subjects to capture all Suphalaks and bring them back to Burma. This apocryphal story has been used to explain the rarity of this breed and their close resemblance to the Burmese cat.

 

But Thailand’s love for the Suphalak isn’t just because it’s rare. These creatures are small and short-haired, flaunt golden yellow eyes, and have an evenly pigmented reddish-brown coat. Owing to these attributes, they are compared to the value of gold, implying that they bring prosperity to the pet owner.

 

Si-Sawat: Shimmering elegance

 

 

Also known as the Korat cat, these silver-coated felines feature prominently pointed ears and bright green eyes. They can pick up the faintest sounds, spot the tiniest movements, and sniff out even the sneakiest treats.

 

Like many other cats on this list, the Si-Sawat is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. This explains why it was never sold but only given as a gift, and it had to be in pairs! These cats were considered a symbol of a blissful and prosperous marriage, a guarantee for a happily ever after.

 

Even today, the Si-Sawat cats are an integral part of the Hae Nang Maew festival in Northeast Thailand. When the villagers are desperate for rain to quench their fields, they take to the streets with a cat in tow. It’s a lively parade, with the Si-Sawat as the star of the show.

 

Khao Manee: Pure as snow

 

 

Literally translating to “white gem,” this Thai cat breed originates from a breeding initiative. Most Khao Manee cats have odd-colored eyes—with one shining like a golden treasure, and the other like a sapphire, which is considered a symbol of good fortune.

 

The pure white coat is another defining characteristic of the Khao Manee breed. It is soft, smooth, and lustrous, accentuating its elegant and regal demeanor. Moreover, some of these cats are born deaf, necessitating specialized care and attention.

 

Back in the 19th century, it was strongly believed that owning one of these cats would bring both longevity and prestige to a household. In fact, legend has it that when King Chulalongkorn the Great ruled the land, the penalty for stealing these cats was none other than the ultimate punishment: death itself.

 

Konja: The black panther

 

 

Yet another breed that appeared in the Tamra Maew, the Konja cat often draws comparisons to the legendary Thai lion, Singha. It’s no wonder why their elegant walk exudes a similar majestic aura.

 

In the treatise, their eyes, teeth, tongue, and claws were described as pitch black. Another distinguishing feature that made them truly stand out was a crisp white stripe running from under their chin all the way down their belly.

 

Today though, the Konja breed is typically entirely black. Perceptions of this black panther stand in stark contrast to the common belief of black cats being seen as ominous symbols. In ancient times, Thai people believed that feeding the cat would bestow upon them a great deal of good fortune. In fact, the Konja cat continues to be a common fixture in Thai temples to this day.

 

Preserving what remains

 

Out of the traditional Thai cat breeds, only five remain in existence today. Veterans like Preecha Pookabut are going to great lengths to preserve their heritage and future by means of initiatives such as the Baan Maew Thai.

 

Even today, Thai cats are a crucial part of certain traditions in Thailand. The Khao Manee cat is still sprinkled with water during Songkran—the Thai New Year, owing to the belief that it will bring good fortune in the coming year. Go to a Buddhist temple, and there’s a high chance you’ll see little Siamese kittens by the dozen!

 

For those fortunate enough to welcome a Thai cat into their homes, they will experience the joy of sharing their lives with a truly exceptional and captivating companion.

 

By Tarang Mohnot

Top photo caption: Source: Jane Koshchina / Shutterstock.com

2nd photo caption: Source: Nattakorn Suphatheera / Shutterstock.com

3rd photo caption: Source: Giffany / Shutterstock.com

4th photo caption: Source: bamgraphy / Shutterstock.com

5th photo caption: Source: dangdumrong / Shutterstock.com

 

Source: https://www.thailandnow.in.th/life-society/felicitous-felines-beliefs-about-thai-cats-and-breed-characteristics/

 

-- © Copyright THAILAND NOW 2023-07-25

 

- Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here.

[brianthainess]

When I first started coming to Thailand 30+ yrs ago, I noticed many cats seemed to have a broken tail, I never did know why, but whether true or not I was told it was to stop them jumping up on tables, as it throws their balance out. Thankfully now I never see that.

Edited July 25, 2023 by brianthainess

[RanongCat]

28 minutes ago, brianthainess said:

When I first started coming to Thailand 30+ yrs ago, I noticed many cats seemed to have a broken tail, I never did know why, but whether true or not I was told it was to stop them jumping up on tables, as it throws their balance out. Thankfully now I never see that.

Has been told to me many common cat in S.E.A have genetic mutation from inbreeding that cause bad shape tail. We have had one with no tail same like Manx . Also a Korat  cat and Konja to look at. But maybe only look like? Personality true to  legend.

[Bday Prang]

17 minutes ago, brianthainess said:

When I first started coming to Thailand 30+ yrs ago, I noticed many cats seemed to have a broken tail, I never did know why, but whether true or not I was told it was to stop them jumping up on tables, as it throws their balance out. Thankfully now I never see that.

             When i first came here also about 30 years ago I hardly ever saw a cat, I remember a travel book I had that even explained why  "Thai cats survive mainly by keeping out of sight" or so it said.

               There seems to have been a surge in popularity recently, coinciding with covid, but i don't know if there is a connection 

             I also wondered about the tail, at first I thought they were botched amputations, but I can happily tell you that it's a genetic thing, I read about it online, but whilst I am as skeptical of online stuff as I am of what I read in newspapers, the wife's sister's cat confirmed it for me.

            That cat has a classic short tail with a hooked end, and recently had 4 kittens ,   2 had short hooked tails, One has a short tail with no hook, and one has the longest "normal" tail I have ever seen on a cat

              The deformed tails do not seem to negatively affect the cats at all,  and they have no problem jumping up on tables or anywhere else

               

[brianthainess]

1 minute ago, Bday Prang said:

the wife's sister's cat confirmed it for me.

 In English or Thai?

[n00dle]

7 minutes ago, Bday Prang said:

 When i first came here also about 30 years ago I hardly ever saw a cat,

Certainly wasn't the case where I lived. 

[gomangosteen]

A basket case!

Friend's cat at rest 'do not disturb'

 

[SpaceKadet]

We adopted a Konja (aka Bombay Cat) some 4 years ago. Now he's the king of the house, vary protective of the property to the point where when I have craftsmen or gardeners coming to fix something I have to lock him up in the bedroom. They are scared <deleted>less of him, as he has a reputation of an angry cat. Well, what can you expect from 20 razor sharp claws and 4 needle like canines. Even MIL tend to stay outside the gate as he scratched her very badly. However, when my friends or my brother comes to visit he just loves the company.

 

My wife is so fond of him, she will just spoil him silly and would say he's better than a guard dog. 

[Bday Prang]

1 hour ago, brianthainess said:

 In English or Thai?

I knew that was coming, doesn't make it any more bearable though lol

[RobU]

18 hours ago, Bday Prang said:

             When i first came here also about 30 years ago I hardly ever saw a cat, I remember a travel book I had that even explained why  "Thai cats survive mainly by keeping out of sight" or so it said.

               There seems to have been a surge in popularity recently, coinciding with covid, but i don't know if there is a connection 

             I also wondered about the tail, at first I thought they were botched amputations, but I can happily tell you that it's a genetic thing, I read about it online, but whilst I am as skeptical of online stuff as I am of what I read in newspapers, the wife's sister's cat confirmed it for me.

            That cat has a classic short tail with a hooked end, and recently had 4 kittens ,   2 had short hooked tails, One has a short tail with no hook, and one has the longest "normal" tail I have ever seen on a cat

              The deformed tails do not seem to negatively affect the cats at all,  and they have no problem jumping up on tables or anywhere else

              

We have 3 Mekong Bobtails not mentioned in the article they are a classic breed with short flat tails with a bobble on the end. Totally rule the house. The short flat tail is not detrimental to them

[Kevin Taylor]

17 hours ago, SpaceKadet said:

We adopted a Konja (aka Bombay Cat) some 4 years ago. Now he's the king of the house, vary protective of the property to the point where when I have craftsmen or gardeners coming to fix something I have to lock him up in the bedroom. They are scared <deleted>less of him, as he has a reputation of an angry cat. Well, what can you expect from 20 razor sharp claws and 4 needle like canines. Even MIL tend to stay outside the gate as he scratched her very badly. However, when my friends or my brother comes to visit he just loves the company.

 

My wife is so fond of him, she will just spoil him silly and would say he's better than a guard dog. 

I had a Bombay cat aswell, it was really my maids second cat but I ended up with him. I was very surprised how people friendly he was, not being a cat person I googled his looks and found a description of him saying he was a Bombay. Honestly he was more doglike than cat-like would follow you around the house from the time I woke up. Highly affectionate breed I honestly didn't know cats behaved that way.

[RobU]

Cats are Protectors of Souls. When the human soul leaves the body it is very disoriented and vulnerable to the dark forces that gather around the dying.  Cats can be attracted to people on the point of death and stay with them until they die to ensure the soul orientates itself and begins its journey safely 

[orchidfan]

9 years on still waiting for the good luck and fortune !!!!!

[SpaceKadet]

2 minutes ago, orchidfan said:

9 years on still waiting for the good luck and fortune !!!!!

You are lucky and fortunate because a cat wants to stay with you...

[SpaceKadet]

Cats are amazing animals:

 

Some can survive a fall from the 32nd stories with only minor injuries.

 

Unlike dogs, humans didn't domesticate cats. They domesticated us.

 

Some researchers say that our advanced civilization wouldn't be possible without cats. Early human civilizations relied much on the grain to eat. Cats protected the grain stores from expansion of rodents, who would otherwise destroy it.

 

Some other researchers say that the cat's brain work similar to human brain. It forms neuron connections in a very similar way to us. Maybe that's why cats are so attracted to humans.

 

Cats are born with genetic memory. They know everything about hunting, fighting and hiding from the day they are born. It takes them 1-2 years to coordinate that knowledge with their body, muscles and "tools".

 

Personally, I think that cats know everything there is to know about Life, Universe and Everything. They don't want to tell us because they regard us as somewhat inferior to real Cats....????????

[orchidfan]

1 hour ago, SpaceKadet said:

Cats are amazing animals:

 

Some can survive a fall from the 32nd stories with only minor injuries.

 

Unlike dogs, humans didn't domesticate cats. They domesticated us.

 

Some researchers say that our advanced civilization wouldn't be possible without cats. Early human civilizations relied much on the grain to eat. Cats protected the grain stores from expansion of rodents, who would otherwise destroy it.

 

Some other researchers say that the cat's brain work similar to human brain. It forms neuron connections in a very similar way to us. Maybe that's why cats are so attracted to humans.

 

Cats are born with genetic memory. They know everything about hunting, fighting and hiding from the day they are born. It takes them 1-2 years to coordinate that knowledge with their body, muscles and "tools".

 

Personally, I think that cats know everything there is to know about Life, Universe and Everything. They don't want to tell us because they regard us as somewhat inferior to real Cats....????????

All quite true.

My little (now full size) siamese cat was the offspring of a soi cat and I took her home (having bred seal point, chocolate point and blue (or lilac?) Point siamese cats (purebreds with papers....for sale back in my home country  ).

I recall Winston Churchill saying that dogs looked up to you, cats looked down on you and pigs looked you straight in the eye !

PS.  suppose that she stays with us for the bug hiuse , garden and food every day .

[Yellowtail]

"People that hate cats all have one thing in common, they never had one."

 

LAS RIP

[SpaceKadet]

Just now, Yellowtail said:

"People that hate cats all have one thing in common, they never had one."

 

LAS RIP

So true...

[Yellowtail]

1 minute ago, SpaceKadet said:

So true...

My MIL and wife both hated cats. Took me twenty years to get one. I had to put my foot down and tell her we were getting a cat, and that it was not a fight she could win. I also told her that if after a year, she still did not want the cat, we would get rid of it. It took about a week for her to fall in love with the cat. That was almost four years ago. 

 

My 70-year-old mother-in-law walks to the market and back to bring fresh fish to cook for the cat when she visits...

[MikeandDow]

I have 14 cats love them all

[Bday Prang]

3 hours ago, SpaceKadet said:

Unlike dogs, humans didn't domesticate cats. They domesticated us.

Cats have spent millions of years not only  developing  their amazing instincts and honing their skill set, They have also put a lot of thought into developing the perfect lifestyle, We were merely lucky enough. to be chosen as their "enablers"

[SpaceKadet]

A true story:

 

During WW2 when German army besieged Stalingrad for several months, the defenders were almost starved to death. In the end they had to resort to consume their pets, all the stray dogs and cats. When all the cats were gone, there was an explosion in rodent population that poisoned and ate most of the grain in stores, adding to the famine. Once the siege was lifted, the local population had to import all the cats they could find in the surrounding villages, and the order was restored. Thanks to the mighty CAT!

 

And some people just cry that a cat kills a bird or two.

 

My BAC (Black Angry Cat) makes a short order of the squirrels that we have around here, trying to get to wife's rice or occasional food rests. And then proudly presents the remains to us. Not to mention occasional rat that strays into our property.  

 

Occasional cockroach are dealt with by my resident Geckos. Estimated lifespan... 5 minutes. Unfortunately their population also suffered when the BAC took over the ownership on the house... 

[RobU]

1 hour ago, SpaceKadet said:

A true story:

 

During WW2 when German army besieged Stalingrad for several months, the defenders were almost starved to death. In the end they had to resort to consume their pets, all the stray dogs and cats. When all the cats were gone, there was an explosion in rodent population that poisoned and ate most of the grain in stores, adding to the famine. Once the siege was lifted, the local population had to import all the cats they could find in the surrounding villages, and the order was restored. Thanks to the mighty CAT!

 

And some people just cry that a cat kills a bird or two.

 

My BAC (Black Angry Cat) makes a short order of the squirrels that we have around here, trying to get to wife's rice or occasional food rests. And then proudly presents the remains to us. Not to mention occasional rat that strays into our property.  

 

Occasional cockroach are dealt with by my resident Geckos. Estimated lifespan... 5 minutes. Unfortunately their population also suffered when the BAC took over the ownership on the house... 

My 3 Mekong Bobtails make short work of the gekkos and small snakes that enter the house no explosion of cockroaches.