Last month, the Social Development and Human Security Ministry of Bangkok gathered at the illustrious Amporn Gardens and shared an alarming revelation about Thailand’s native feline species. They disclosed that out of the 17 recognized Thai cat breeds, only four—Siamese, Supalak, Konja and Sisawat or Korat—still walk among us. The experts at the seminar expressed profound concern for Thailand’s inability to implement effective conservation strategies, subsequently leading to 13 breeds becoming extinct.
These indigenous Thai cats have now become coveted rarities, and a single kitten can fetch a stunning price tag of up to 250,000 Baht, particularly if it embodies traits delineated in historical archives. The list of Thailand’s 17 native breeds, as confirmed by professionals and various websites, includes:
1. Nilrat: A species with an all-black costume that even spills over to their nails, tongue, teeth, eyes, and bones. They possess long tails capable of reaching their heads. According to ancient lore, a Nilrat cat ushers in prosperity and security for its owners.
2. Vilas: Distinguished by fur that is black from the neck to the belly, white ears, tail and legs, and green eyes. Ancestral wisdom suggests ownership of a Vilas cat would lead to masterly social influence and incredible wealth.
3. Supalak (Copper): This breed flaunts a unique copper-colored coverage, accentuated by its sparkling eyes. This cat was considered a predictor of significant governmental positions for its owner.
4. Kao-Taem (Nine spots): This breed boasts a pristine white coat sporadically interrupted by nine black spots. Ancient Thais believed these cats to be symbols of commercial triumph.
5. Sisawat (Korat): Renowned for a glistening blue-silver coat reminiscent of grey rain clouds, with large eyes mimicking “dew on lotus petals”. People commonly associate this breed with good luck and joy.
6. Sam Sawet: Recognizable by its slender shape, short black and white fur, and firefly-like eyes. It was believed this breed showered its owner with luck.
7. Rattanakamphon: Its fur mirrors the whiteness of a conch, contrasted by a black belt around the chest, and yellow eyes. Owning this breed was considered a guarantee of securing government jobs and gaining respect.
8. Wichienmaat (Siamese): Born in a white fur, which later transitions into light cream, with nine body parts—face, tail, feet, ears, and the genital area—turning to a deep brown. Folklore associates this breed with financial prosperity.
9. Niljak: Characterized by an entirely black fur save for a white collar. Ownership of this cat is believed to bring immense wealth to its owner.
10. Mulila: These cats have a black coat, white ears, and eyes the color of vibrant chrysanthemums. They were allegedly nurtured by monks, who believed these cats aided in devout scholarship.
11. Krob Waen (eyeglass frames) or An Ma (saddle): Phylogenetically named for a saddle-like marking on its back. Historically, this feline was highly priced and thought to bequeath fame and dignity onto its owners.
12. Pat Sawet Pat Talod: Distinguished by an all-black pelt featuring a single white stripe running from the nose tip to the tail. Ownership of this breed was associated with fortune and prosperity.
13. Krajok (shoddy): Round and black, with a white mouth and yellow eyes, these cats supposedly blessed their owners with land, riches, and elevated societal status.
14. Singhasep or Songhasp: A black body accessorized with a white mouth, nose, collar, and yellow eyes. Ownership of these cats was noted to herald favorable outcomes.
15. Karavek: Black-coated cats featuring a white nose and glittering eyes. Presumed to bring honor and fortune to owners within seven months of adoption.
16. Jatubot (four parts): Characterized by an all-black fur, contrasted with white socks and Sesbania flower-like eyes. Allegedly, only people of high societal stature or those associated with the royal family kept these cats.
17. Konja (completely dark): Covered in a delicate black fur, eyes paralleled to the gourd plant flowers, with a gracefully long tail akin to a lion’s. This cat was deemed a mascot of good luck.
Ancient texts also list six ill-fated cats:
1. Thuppol Paet (wrong species): Generally white with blood-red eyes, it was thought this thieving breed brought bad luck and discomfort to its owners.
2. Phanphayak (tiger stripes): Recognizable by its fur stripes, red clay colored eyes, and a ghost-like screech, this breed was associated with the advent of misfortune.
3. Pisaj (demon): Thin and coarse coat, it was believed that this breed was cannibalistic towards their young.
4. Hinathot: Dubbed a harbinger of woe and disaster. They were often known for stillbirths.
5. Kobpleng (handful of fire): Known for their elusive nature, these cats were reportedly predictors of dire consequences for their owners.
6. Neb Sanied (misfortunes): Characteristic curled tail tucked under the bottom, and frequent deformities. Ancients believed the owner’s honor and reputation would be tarnished.
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