Khao Manee
Also known as: Diamond Eye, White Diamond Cat, Thailand White cat
The Khao Manee is a pedigreed cat breed with a documented history and breed standard. The Khao Manee comes from Thailand. Individual Khao Manees vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Thailand
- Other names
- Diamond Eye, White Diamond Cat, Thailand White cat
About the Khao Manee
The Khao Manee is a rare Thai cat breed known for its pure solid-white coat and short, smooth texture. Originating from Thailand, this breed is prized for its striking appearance.
Lifespan and health
The Khao Manee is generally a healthy and long-lived breed, with a typical lifespan ranging from 12 to 16 years, though many individuals live into their late teens with proper care. Their longevity is supported by a naturally robust constitution and relatively low incidence of inherited genetic disorders compared to some other purebred cats. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and a stimulating indoor environment contribute significantly to maintaining their health and vitality throughout life. While the Khao Manee is not strongly predisposed to breed-specific conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) or polycystic kidney disease (PKD), which are more common in breeds such as Ragdolls or Persians, they can still be susceptible to general feline health issues including dental disease, obesity, and urinary tract problems. Preventive care should include routine wellness exams, vaccinations, parasite control, dental cleanings, and monitoring for changes in behavior or appetite. Responsible breeding practices that avoid mating deaf white cats (due to the association with the white coat gene) help reduce the risk of congenital deafness, particularly in cats with blue eyes. Early detection and proactive management remain key to ensuring a high quality of life.
Overview
The Khao Manee cat ( Thai : ขาวมณี , RTGS : Khao Mani , lit. "white jewel"), or Khao Plort ( Thai : ขาวปลอด , lit. "complete white"), also known as the Diamond Eye cat, is a rare, natural breed of domestic cat originating in Thailand , which has an ancient ancestry tracing back hundreds of years. They are mentioned in the Tamra Maew ( Cat Book Poems ). Khao Manee cats are short-haired solid-white cats.
History
The Khao Manee is an ancient cat breed comparable to the Siamese , Thai , Korat , Suphalak , and other natural cat breeds from Thailand . The Khao Manee is mentioned in the Tamra Maew ( Cat Book Poems ) that also mention the Siamese cat breed and other different coat coloured cats endemic to Thailand, or Siam, as it was previously known.
Appearance
Khao Manee cats are pure solid-white with a short, smooth, close-lying coat without undercoat. The paw pads and the nose leather are pink. They are muscular, athletic cats of moderate build and are reputed to be active, communicative and intelligent. The eye colour is brilliant, clear and vivid, and should resemble that of precious gemstones. They can have blue (including aqua), golden (including shades of brown, copper, amber, yellow, and hazel), or green eyes. Furthermore, odd-eyes are allowed; with one of each colour or multiple colours within one eye. The odd-eyed Khao Manee is the rarest variety.
Popularity
Khao Manee cats are one of the rarest feline breeds in the world, therefore the prices are relatively high, in some cases reaching up to US$11,000. In its country of origin, the Khao Manee is very popular because it is associated with the monarchy but also because several legends of extreme felicity and healing were reported by the press. Known as the "White Gem", the Khao Manee was rumoured to be highly coveted by Thai royalty, and is thought to bring good luck to those fortunate enough to have one. It''s always in relation with religious discovery and about sudden fortune. Some stories mention sums going up to 150 billion Baht (over US$4 billion) in 1993 for a subject with eyes like precious stones which funded the construction of a monastery.
Registries
There are a variety of breeders from where you may acquire your new kitten or cat, in Thailand or in the West now. Outside of Thailand , a registration of your kitten is mandatory with one major association to secure it is a real Khao Manee from imported ancestors. Although the breed is well known in its native land, it has only recently been adopted by Western cat breeders, gaining " registration only " status from TICA in May 2009. On 3 September 2011, the breed was promoted to " Preliminary New Breed ", effective from 1 May 2012 and on 30 August 2013 the breed was promoted to "Advanced New Breed", effective immediately. On January 24, 2015, the Khao Manee breed was advanced to Championship level in TICA, effective May 1, 2015. On 8 September 2010, at the meeting of the GCCF Executive Committee, the Khao Manee was granted breed name in GCCF, and was approved for exhibition only. The Khao Manee Cat Club was granted GCCF pre-affiliation at the Council meeting on 26 October 2011. The breed received official recognition by the CFA on February 7, 2018, and has been welcome in their shows since May 1, 2018. The breed is also accepted in other registries, such as WCF , however it is not recognised by FIFe .
Distinction
The Khao Manee is not to be confused with the Siamese or Thai , or any Siamese relative including the Foreign White , which was bred from purebred Siamese with one white-coated British Shorthair ancestor. Though both white cats have a common background, the Siamese cat and the Khao Manee have different genetic structures, bloodlines and breeding policies, thus Khao Manee are considered a completely different breed in the West, as well as in its native home of Thailand .
Thonburi Kingdom
After the Ayutthaya Kingdom collapsed during the Burmese-Siamese War (AD 1765–67), the Siamese people emigrated to the Thonburi Kingdom (AD 1768–1782). One of the most important temples in Bangkok is in the Wat Arun. A Buddhist temple had existed at the site of Wat Arun since the time of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. When King Taksin established his new capital of Thonburi near the temple after the fall of Ayutthaya, the Khao Manee''s historical records were found there.
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Khao Manee, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Khao Manee?
The Khao Manee is a rare, natural breed of domestic cat originating in Thailand. They are short-haired, solid-white cats with a slender build and a wedge-shaped head. Their eyes are typically blue, green, or gold, and are often described as 'diamond-shaped' due to their unique shape.
Is the Khao Manee a good family cat?
As a general rule, short-haired breeds like the Khao Manee can make good family pets due to their low maintenance coat. However, individual personalities may vary. It's essential to spend time with a potential new pet to ensure compatibility with your family's lifestyle and dynamics.
What health problems do Khao Manees have?
As a relatively rare breed, there is limited information available on specific health issues affecting the Khao Manee. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to general feline health issues such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and patellar luxation. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their health.
How much does a Khao Manee kitten cost?
The cost of a Khao Manee kitten can vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, bloodline, and location. On average, a reputable breeder may charge between $1,000 to $3,000 for a Khao Manee kitten. However, prices may be higher or lower depending on individual circumstances.
Where do Khao Manees come from?
The Khao Manee comes from Thailand. The breed developed there before spreading to cat fanciers worldwide.