Korat Owners: Pam Pittaway, Laidley, Queensland

Tricia has asked me to say a few words about 'owning' a Korat. Well, to start with, having had two korats to-date (one for 19 years, the other so far, for 2 years), I can testify that one does not 'own' a Korat! They are not 'pyjama case' cats, but require time and effort to establish a 'partnership'. You can be the custodian and carer of a Korat, but they are not 'owned'! You ignore a Korat at your peril! Computer keyboards are fair game to a disgruntled Korat, with direct action taken if meows for attention are not gratified within the prescribed time limit!

Korats are very playful and have the full set of feline instincts. They should not be left outside unattended, as they will injure themselves as well as the local wildlife. Our current cat is a garden cat, accompanying us in a harness and tether while we work, often tied to a mower grass catcher made over as a portable Korat kennel. She takes her humans for two walks a day, one am the other pm. When too tired to stroll around, she can be coerced into moving by providing a bucket for transport, or by pushing her in a wheelbarrow. Humans bending over are irresistible, serving as a viewing platform for Korat reconnaissance.

'Chicory' displaying Korat elegance in front of the fire. White fluffy toy stuffed in the front of the basket is the barometer of Korat kind's state of mind. If anxious, the toy is pulled out and draped over her food bowls. If all is well, the toy stays in place. If taken out to wash and dry, she will find it and return it to her place.

Carpet 'castles' are also essential for Korat 'private time,' and if you do not want your furniture clawed to ribbons!