Thailand has officially given five of its native cat breeds national identity status — basically the government’s way of saying, “These cats are ours, they’re precious, please protect them.”
Government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat announced on Nov 18, 2025, that the Cabinet has approved the proposal by the National Identity Committee, marking a big step for Thailand’s cultural and creative economy.
The five Thai cat breeds now officially protected
According to Thai media, only five purebred native Thai cats exist today, and all of them have now been recognised as part of the country’s national identity under the pet category:
- Suphalak (Copper cat)
- Korat (Si-Sawat cat)
- Wichienmaat (better known globally as the Siamese cat)
- Konja (Black cat)
- Khao Manee (White jewel cat)
These breeds have existed in Thailand for centuries and are mentioned in ancient manuscripts like the Tamra Maew (Cat Treatises), but their numbers have declined due to crossbreeding and lack of standardisation.
Why Thailand is doing this
According to Siripong, the move is meant to:
- Preserve and protect rare native cat breeds
- Create official breed standards
- Prevent foreign parties from claiming ownership or registering these breeds commercially
- Raise awareness of their cultural value
- Boost tourism and the creative economy through “Thai cat branding”
Thailand already has several recognised national symbols: the Thai elephant, Siamese fighting fish, Naga, and even the Thai wai. Now, these five cats join the lineup.
More than just cute cats
By declaring these breeds as national identity symbols, the government wants to safeguard Thailand’s heritage.
It also hopes the breeds can inspire new opportunities, think tourism experiences, cultural exhibitions, art, merchandise and even global marketing featuring authentic Thai cats.
The Ministry of Culture has reviewed and endorsed the plan, which means we might soon see more projects, events and campaigns centred on these iconic felines.
A win for history, heritage and cat lovers everywhere.
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