Khao Manee: The Rare Thai Diamond-Eyed Cat
Picture a cat with eyes that shine like diamonds, a coat as white as snow, and a history that goes back centuries. This is the Khao Manee, one of the rarest cats in the world1. These cats come from Thailand and have won the hearts of cat lovers everywhere with their special looks and interesting past.
Key Takeaways
- The Khao Manee is a rare, ancient breed of domestic cat from Thailand, with an ancestry dating back hundreds of years.
- They are known for their solid-white coats and vivid eye colours resembling precious gemstones, such as blue, golden, green or odd-eyed.
- Khao Manees are considered one of the rarest feline breeds globally, with some individuals commanding prices up to $11,0001.
- The breed has only recently gained recognition in Western countries, with the first Khao Manee being imported to the United States in 19992.
- Khao Manees are distinct from Siamese or Thai cats, with their own unique genetic structure, bloodlines and breeding policies.
Introduction to the Khao Manee
The Khao Manee is a stunning cat breed from Thailand’s tropical climate. They are famous for their pure white coats and eyes that shine like gems in colours like blue, gold, or green3. This breed was a secret in Thailand until 1999, when the first cat was taken to the US by a specialist3.
Description and Distinguishing Features
Khao Manee cats have a strong, athletic body and a unique head shape. Their body is long enough to fit their hot, humid home3. Judges look for these features in cat shows3.
These cats don’t shed much but need regular grooming to stay white3. They are smart and friendly, making them easy to train3.
Rarity and Origins in Thailand
The Khao Manee is an ancient breed from Thailand, known since the Tamra Maew (Cat Book Poems)4. Most have white coats, but some have eyes in blue, green, or gold. The rarest have two different coloured eyes4.
Outside Thailand, the Khao Manee is very rare4. The Cat Fanciers’ Association accepted them in 20183. Their link to Thai royalty and rarity make them very expensive4.
Characteristic | Khao Manee Breed Standard |
---|---|
Head Shape | Modified wedge with medium width |
Nose and Ear Placement | Equilateral triangle formed by nose and ear tips |
Body Structure | Lithe but not extreme, medium length nose, short smooth coat, muscular and athletic |
Eye Shape and Colour | Slightly to moderately large and luminous, set apart a bit more than an eye width, any vivid colour including blue, yellow, or green |
Penalisations | Fully round eyes, incorrect muzzle shape, abnormal body proportions |
Disqualifications | Visible tail kinks, incorrect toe numbers, crossed eyes, any coat colour other than white |
The Khao Manee breed standard sets the physical traits expected in shows, keeping their Thai heritage alive3. Their unique heads and strong bodies show their elegance and grace3.
History and Ancestry
The Khao Manee is a cat breed with deep roots in Thai culture. It first appeared in the Tamra Maew5, a 14th-century book of cat illustrations and poems. This book was like an early breed standard for Thai cats. Out of over 20 ancient Thai cat breeds listed, only five are still around today, and the Khao Manee is one of them5.
Mentioned in the Ancient Tamra Maew
The Tamra Maew says the Khao Manee brought good luck to people around them. The odd-eyed Khao Manees were seen as especially lucky5. These cats were very popular with Thai royalty, kept and bred by them, just like the Siamese cats5.
Association with Thai Royalty
The Khao Manee’s link to Thai royalty has made it a highly valued breed5. Its unique look and believed magical powers have made it a symbol of status and luck. This has helped keep its legacy alive among ancient Thai cat breeds5.
Khao Manee Characteristics
The Khao Manee is a breed of cat that catches the eye with its looks and personality. It has a lean, athletic body and a head shaped like a wedge, showing off the true Thai cat look6. Their coat is short and smooth, perfect for the hot, humid weather of Thailand7. Their eyes shine brightly, showing colours from blue to gold, or even odd-eyed, like precious gems.
Physical Appearance
Khao Manee cats are medium-sized, with muscles and a balanced build. Males can weigh up to 6.5 kilograms and females up to 4.5 kilograms6. They have a long nose and big ears that make them look alert. Their coat is short and fine, needing little care, ideal for the tropical climate they come from7.
Personality and Temperament
Khao Manee cats are known for being friendly, curious, and lively. They love being around people and form strong bonds with their families7. They are playful, clever, and active but not too much so6. But, they don’t like being alone for a long time. They need regular attention and activities from their owners to stay happy and avoid bad behaviour7.
Trait | Description |
---|---|
Appearance | Lithe, athletic build with medium boning; wedge-shaped head; short, smooth coat; large, perky ears; eye colours include blue, gold, green, and odd-eyed combinations |
Size | Males up to 6.5 kg, females up to 4.5 kg6 |
Life Expectancy | 10-15 years67 |
Temperament | Friendly, curious, outgoing, playful, mischievous, intelligent, medium activity level, vocal |
Grooming | Minimal grooming required due to short, fine coat |
Health Concerns | Increased risk of deafness, especially in white cats with blue eyes67 |
“The Khao Manee is a captivating feline breed known for its striking appearance and engaging personality.”
Caring for a Khao Manee
The Khao Manee’s coat is short and smooth, making it easy to care for. It only needs brushing once or twice a week to keep it shiny8. Bathing is done every few months, using a special shampoo for white cats to keep it bright8. It’s also key to trim their nails every two weeks, check their ears weekly, and take care of their teeth for their health and happiness.
Grooming Requirements
Khao Manees have short, sleek coats that are often white with colour points on their ears, tails, and paws8. They need brushing at least twice a week and their ears should be checked for dirt8. These cats weigh 6-10 lbs and can grow up to 18 inches long9. Their jewel-toned eyes and white coats mean they need extra care to look their best.
Environmental Enrichment
Khao Manees are very active and curious, so they need lots of toys and things to do to keep them happy8. Cat trees, towers, and toys like feather wands, balls with bells, and puzzle feeders are great for them8. They love to play fetch and climb, so they should get lots of chances to exercise their natural instincts.
Khao Manee Grooming and Care | Recommendation |
---|---|
Brushing | 1-2 times per week |
Bathing | Every 2-3 months |
Nail Trimming | Every 2 weeks |
Ear Checks | Weekly |
Dental Care | Weekly |
“Puzzle feeders are recommended to prevent obesity in cats, a common issue among felines.”8
The Khao Manee is a breed with few health problems, which can lead to a long life of 10-12 years9. They are friendly and fit well with families and children, making great pets8. Not all Khao Manees have different coloured eyes, but it’s a common feature of the breed8.
Khao Manee Health
The Khao Manee breed is known for being healthy and long-lived, with a lifespan of 10-12 years10. But, they can have a special health issue – being born deaf in one or both ears10. This condition is permanent, so owners must take steps to keep their cats safe and avoid startling them.
Khao Manee owners should also watch out for other health issues like diabetes, FIV, and dental problems10. Regular vet visits and preventative care are key to keeping these cats healthy and happy.
Health Issue | Prevalence |
---|---|
Periodontal Disease | Common |
Ear Infections | Common |
Stomatitis | Common |
Diarrhea | Occasional |
Upper Respiratory Infections | Occasional |
Even with health issues, Khao Manee cats are resilient and do well in warm places10. They need shade and water, but with the right care, they can live a happy life.
“Khao Manee cats are sometimes referred to as ‘diamond eye’ cats due to their striking eye colours.”10
Obtaining a Khao Manee
Finding a good Khao Manee breeder can be hard, especially outside Thailand, where they come from11. Going to cat shows is a great way to meet trustworthy breeders. They can help you get a kitten or an adult cat. Make sure any Khao Manee you get is registered with a big cat association. This checks its purebred status and family line.
Finding Responsible Breeders
People wanting a Khao Manee should be ready for a big spend, as it’s a pricey breed11. Khao Manee kittens can cost between £7,000 to £11,000 when brought in from another country12. Even though they’re not often in shelters, adopting one can still cost a lot, up to £2,500 or more12.
Costs and Adoption Considerations
Those interested in a Khao Manee must be ready for the care it needs12. Owning a Khao Manee can cost £50 to £250 a month. This covers food, grooming, vet bills, and fun activities12. Also, white Khao Manees with blue eyes might be more likely to be deaf11.
Even with the challenges, the Khao Manee’s uniqueness makes it a top choice for cat lovers13. By finding responsible breeders and understanding the costs and care needed, you can bring this special cat home111213.
Khao Manee
The Khao Manee is a rare, ancient breed of cat from Thailand14. They are known for their all-white coats and bright eyes14. These cats are friendly, curious, and very smart. They love being around their human families14. Although they are well-loved in Thailand, they are still quite rare in other countries. The first Khao Manees came to the US in 19991.
The Khao Manee has a long history, dating back hundreds of years, as mentioned in the Tamra Maew1. In 1999, Colleen Freymuth brought 12 Khao Manees to the US1. They got their official breed name in 2010 and were accepted by the CFA in 20181.
Khao Manees are very rare and were once pets of Thai royalty, making them one of the priciest cat breeds1. In Thailand, they are very popular because of their royal connection and are thought to bring luck1. They stand out with their solid-white coat, stunning eyes, and the option for odd-eyed cats1.
The Khao Manee is distinct from Siamese or Thai cats, with its own genetic makeup1. It shares genetic traits with other Asian breeds like the Ocicat, Birman, and Korat14.
Living with a Khao Manee
The Khao Manee is a friendly and outgoing cat, perfect for families with kids and other pets15. They love being around people and get along with everyone at home15. But, they don’t like being alone for too long. They need lots of attention and will get bored or upset if left out16.
Suitability for Families
Khao Manees are great for families with kids because they’re patient and friendly15. They enjoy playing and being part of the family fun. They also get along well with other pets, like dogs and cats, and even small animals like guinea pigs or hamsters.
Activity Levels and Interaction Needs
Khao Manees are full of energy and love to play and explore15. They need lots of playtime and activities to keep them happy16. They don’t like being alone for a long time and can get bored or sad without enough attention16. If you’re thinking of getting a Khao Manee, be ready to spend time with them every day.
Characteristic | Khao Manee |
---|---|
Average Lifespan | 10 to 12 years16 |
Average Weight (Males) | 8 to 11 pounds16 |
Average Weight (Females) | 6 to 8 pounds16 |
Height | 10–12 inches15 |
Suitable for | Families, singles, seniors, apartments, houses15 |
“Khao Manees get along well with children and other pets in the household.”15
Recognition and Registration
The Khao Manee, a rare and captivating Thai cat breed, has gained recognition from major cat registries worldwide17. In May 2009, The International Cat Association (TICA) listed the Khao Manee as Registration Only17. By May 2012, it was upgraded to Preliminary New Breed17. Finally, in 2015, it reached TICA Championship level17.
The World Cat Federation (WCF) also accepts the breed, but the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) does not1. In the US, the Khao Manee was welcomed by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 20183. This allowed the breed to participate in CFA cat shows from May of that year1.
Cat Associations and Breed Standards
Khao Manee cats must be registered with a major cat association3. TICA and CFA have set breed standards that describe the Khao Manee’s looks and personality3. Breeders and owners must follow these rules to keep the breed true to its nature3.
The Khao Manee stands out with its heart-shaped head, high cheekbones, and shiny white coat17. It’s known for being regal yet playful, making it a popular pet3. As the breed becomes more popular, breeders and fans work hard to keep its history and standards alive1.
“The Khao Manee is a natural breed of Thailand existing only in white with shimmering eye colours.”3
Myths and Legends
In Thailand, the Khao Manee is a key part of folklore and mythology. It’s seen as a symbol of good luck and healing18. The name “Khao Manee” means “white gem” in Thai, showing its high value and respected look18. The Tamra Maew, an old Thai manuscript, tells us the Khao Manee was thought to bring blessings and fortune to its owners19. Odd-eyed cats were seen as especially lucky18.
Folklore and Symbolism in Thailand
There are stories about the Khao Manee’s power to bring great wealth, like funding a monastery19. This has made the Khao Manee a symbol of good fortune in Thai culture18. It’s often seen in Thai art and literature, thanks to its unique look and association with luck1918.
The Khao Manee’s odd eyes and sometimes being deaf have added to its mythical status18. These traits have made it seem mystical and a link to supernatural powers1918.
“The Khao Manee is believed to bring good fortune and blessings to its owners, making it a highly revered and sought-after breed in Thailand.”
The Khao Manee’s deep connection to Khao Manee folklore, Khao Manee mythology, and Khao Manee symbolism has made it very popular and important in Thailand1918.
Conclusion
The Khao Manee is a rare and captivating cat breed that has won the hearts of cat lovers around the world. It has an ancient Thai heritage and is known for its all-white coat and stunning eyes. This cat is not just a beauty but also a loving and playful friend20.
This breed has deep roots in Thailand’s culture and is slowly gaining recognition globally. Yet, it’s still rare outside Thailand. If you’re thinking of getting a Khao Manee, be ready to give it a stimulating life, top-notch food, and regular grooming21.
The Khao Manee’s unique look and charming personality make it a standout among cats. It can live for 15-20 years, making it a devoted and rewarding pet for those who care for it well2021.
FAQ
What is a Khao Manee cat?
The Khao Manee, also known as the Diamond Eye cat, is a rare breed from Thailand. They have a solid-white coat and eyes that shine like precious gems. These can be blue, golden, green, or odd-eyed.
What is the history and ancestry of the Khao Manee?
This breed has a long history in Thailand, dating back hundreds of years. It’s mentioned in the Tamra Maew, a 14th-century book of cat poems. Thai royalty once prized these cats highly.
What are the distinctive physical features of the Khao Manee?
Khao Manee cats have a short, smooth coat and pink paw pads and nose leather. They are muscular, with a wedge-shaped head and large ears. Their eyes are the standout feature, shining like gemstones in blue, gold, green, or odd-eyed colours.
What is the temperament and personality of the Khao Manee?
These cats are friendly, curious, and love being around people. They enjoy interacting with their family and get along with kids and other pets. Khao Manees are playful, smart, and like to talk, showing a medium level of activity.
How rare is the Khao Manee and where can I find one?
The Khao Manee is very rare, with the first US import in 1999. Finding a reputable breeder is hard, especially outside Thailand. Going to cat shows is a good way to meet responsible breeders.
What health concerns are associated with the Khao Manee?
Khao Manees can be born with deafness in one or both ears, a condition they have for life. Owners should watch out for diabetes, FIV, and dental issues in these cats.
How much do Khao Manee cats cost?
Khao Manee cats are very expensive, with kittens costing over £11,000. Adoption fees can also be high, sometimes over £2,500, due to their rarity.
Source Links
- Khao Manee – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khao_Manee
- Meet Thailand’s Rare Treasure: The Khao Manee Cat – https://www.thesprucepets.com/khao-manee-5200565
- Khao Manee – cfa – https://cfa.org/breed/khao-manee/
- Khao Manee Cat Breed: Info, Pictures, Temperament & Traits – Catster – https://www.catster.com/cat-breeds/khao-manee/
- Khao Manee Cat Breed Guide – https://scrumbles.co.uk/blogs/news/khao-manee-cat-breed-guide
- Khao Manee | zooplus Magazine – https://www.zooplus.co.uk/magazine/cat/cat-breeds/khao-manee
- Khao Manee cat breed: the snow-white cat with eyes like gems – https://www.lovemycatz.com/breed-description/khao-manee-cat-breed/
- Khao Manee: Profile, Characteristics, And Care – https://www.boredpanda.com/pet-wellness/cat/khao-manee/
- Khao Manee Cat Breed Profile | Litter-Robot – https://www.litter-robot.com/blog/khao-manee-cat/
- Khao Manee Cat Health Issues and Personality | ASPCA Pet Health Insurance – https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/khao-manee-cat-facts/
- What you Need to Know to Care for a Khao Manee Cat | Pet Side – https://www.petside.com/khao-manee/
- How Much Does It Cost to Own a Khao Manee? (One-Time Costs & FAQ) | PangoVet – https://pangovet.com/pet-lifestyle/cats/how-much-does-it-cost-to-own-a-khao-manee/
- Khao Manee (Khao Plort) – https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/khao-manee-khao-plort
- Khaomanee Facts – Wisdom Panel™ Cat Breeds – https://www.wisdompanel.com/en-gb/cat-breeds/khaomanee
- Khao Manee (Diamond Eye Cat): Info, Pictures, Temperament & Traits | PangoVet – https://pangovet.com/pet-breeds/cats/khao-manee/
- What to Know About a Khao Manee – https://www.webmd.com/pets/cats/what-to-know-khao-manee
- Khaomanee Breed – https://www.tica.org/khaomanee-breeders?view=article&id=846:khaomanee-breed&catid=79
- Khao Manee: The Rare and Striking White Gem of the Cat World | PawSpice – https://www.pawspice.com/khao-manee-the-rare-and-striking-white-gem-of-the-cat-world/
- Felicitous Felines: Beliefs About Thai Cats and Breed Characteristics – Thailand NOW – https://www.thailandnow.in.th/life-society/felicitous-felines-beliefs-about-thai-cats-and-breed-characteristics/
- Unraveling the Marvels of the Khao Manee Cat Breed – https://medium.com/@catfoodsiteblog.thanh.qb2/unraveling-the-marvels-of-the-khao-manee-cat-breed-6d807da41cac
- Embarking on a Journey with the Enchanting Khao Manee Cats – https://medium.com/@catfoodsiteblog.thanh.qb/embarking-on-a-journey-with-the-enchanting-khao-manee-cats-5df4baac3d06
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