The Thai Cabinet has officially approved five indigenous Thai cat breeds as national emblems in the pet category, marking a significant milestone in the preservation of Thailand’s cultural heritage, following a proposal by the National Identity Committee (NIC). The five recognized breeds are: Suphalak, Korat, Wichien Maat, Kornja, and Khao Manee.
This designation joins other nationally recognized symbols established between 1964 and 2024, including the Thai elephant as the national animal, the Siamese fighting fish as the national aquatic animal, the Naga as the national mythical animal emblem, and the wai as the national gesture of respect.
Historical research and genetic studies confirm that Thai cats possess distinctive characteristics in appearance and temperament that clearly differentiate them from other breeds. These cats have been integral to Thai society for centuries, with documented evidence in historical records and deep connections to Thai beliefs, customs, local wisdom, and cultural practices.
Thai cats are internationally recognized as exceptional breeds and enjoy worldwide popularity. However, this has led to attempts by foreign entities to register purebred Thai cats and establish breed standards independently.
This declaration addresses several key priorities:
∙Preservation: Establishes a foundation for conservation efforts and the development of unified breed standards
∙Protection: Safeguards Thailand’s ownership rights and prevents unauthorized foreign registration
∙Economic Development: Creates opportunities for economic growth and the advancement of creative industries related to Thai cats
The official recognition shows Thailand’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while protecting its intellectual property rights on the international stage.
The preceding is a press release by the Thai Public Relations Department.
