A moderate, athletic pointed cat: medium-boned and fairly long but never extreme, with a flat forehead, rounded skull sides and a wedge muzzle. The short coat is soft and silky and lies flat. Every Thai has blue eyes, a pale body and darker points on the face, ears, legs and tail.21
Coloursseal point (most common)other pointed colours with blue eyes21
Personality what they are like
An outgoing, talkative companion that loves its family, meets people at the door and likes to be involved in everything. It is curious and playful, and it communicates with both voice and touch.21
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. A strong jumper and explorer that can learn to open doors and cupboards; daily wand play is recommended and an exercise wheel can help.2
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Minimal coat care as the cat keeps itself clean. Trim nails about every two weeks, check and clean ears and brush teeth regularly.2
Home where they are happiest
An indoor home with climbing space, puzzle toys and secure cupboards suits this agile, inquisitive cat.2
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Needs a complete, balanced cat food built around animal protein, with fresh water always available; portion treats so the cat stays trim.2
Company who they like around
Needs plenty of daily attention and does not like being left alone for long stretches.2
The story where it all began
Pointed cats called Wichien Maat were described in Thai cat-book poems centuries ago, and imports to Britain from the late 1800s became the Siamese. As show breeding moved toward a longer, more angular look, some breeders kept the moderate original type, and in 1990 the WCF recognised it under the name Thai. Native cats from Thailand have been imported since 2001 to broaden the lines.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Wichien Maat, the Thai name, is usually translated as 'diamond gold' (or 'moon diamond').1
2
The pointed cat of Thailand has been written about in Thai literature for at least 700 years.2
3
Fans nicknamed the rounder old-type Siamese 'Applehead'.1
4
The old-type Siamese helped create the Himalayan, Ocicat and Havana Brown.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed is named 'Thai' after its country of origin, Thailand, and is also known by the traditional Thai name 'Wichien Maat' from ancient Siam, as it is intended to be the living equivalent of the original pointed cats of that region.2
I greet my human at the door with a loud 'meow' and a tail that won't stop wagging. I follow them everywhere, bathroom, kitchen, even the garden, because I must know everything. I open the cupboard with my clever paws, just to check if the treats moved. We play fetch with a crumpled paper ball, and I bring it back every time. When they sit at their desk, I perch on the keyboard, demanding attention. In the evening, I climb to the top of the bookshelf and survey my domain, then curl up on their chest, purring stories of my day. They are my favorite person, and I make sure they know it.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
WCF
Championship status 1990, when the name Thai was adopted2
TICA
Preliminary New Breed 2007, Advanced New Breed 2009, Championship 20102
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Thai, and at what times?
Feeding frequency and times depend on your cat's age, activity and the food you choose. Furry Diary suggests following the portion guide on the food label and checking with your vet for a schedule that keeps your Thai trim.
What should a Thai eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A Thai needs a complete, balanced cat food built around animal protein, with fresh water always available. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol, check the full ASPCA list for safety.23
Does a Thai need baths?
Thai cats keep themselves clean, so baths are rarely needed. Only bathe if your cat gets very dirty or sticky, as recommended by general grooming guidance.24
How often does a Thai need brushing?
A weekly brushing is enough for this short, silky coat. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every seven days, and general guidance agrees once or twice a week.24Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Thai's claws, and how often?
Trim your Thai's claws about every two weeks, taking only the sharp tip. Furry Diary suggests every 21 days, and general advice recommends trimming no more than two claws per session at first.24Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Thai need?
This curious, high-energy cat needs daily play, a wand toy session and an exercise wheel are great. Furry Diary recommends daily play to keep your Thai happy and active.2Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Thai's teeth and ears?
Brush your Thai's teeth regularly, daily is ideal, and Furry Diary suggests every two days. Check and clean ears as needed, following your vet's advice for proper care.2Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Thai live?
A Thai cat typically lives a long, healthy life of 17 to 22 years.2
Is a Thai good with children and other pets?
Thai cats are outgoing and love being involved with their family, which often includes children and other pets. For specific introductions, ask a good breeder or your vet.
Can a Thai be left alone?
Thai cats need plenty of daily attention and do not like being left alone for long stretches. They thrive with company and interactive play throughout the day.2
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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