The Khao Manee, also known as the “Diamond Eye” cat, is a breathtakingly rare breed hailing from Thailand. With a strikingly white coat and mesmerising eyes that can be blue, gold, green, or even odd-eyed (one of each), this feline is truly a living gem. Known for their intelligence, playfulness, and deep affection for their human families, Khao Manees make delightful companions.
Their short, sleek coat requires minimal grooming, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a low-maintenance but highly engaging pet. If you’re after a cat that’s as charming as it is rare, the Khao Manee might just be your perfect match!
The Khao Manee has a rich and noble history in Thailand, where it has long been revered as an ancient and royal breed. Their origins date back hundreds of years, with references found in the Tamra Maew (“Cat Book Poems”)—a centuries-old manuscript detailing prized Thai cats.
For much of history, these stunning white cats remained virtually unknown outside of Thailand, as they were closely guarded by Thai royalty. Their name, “Khao Manee,” translates to “white gem,” a fitting title for their shimmering coats and dazzling eyes.
Only in recent decades have breeders started introducing them to the Western world, and even now, they remain one of the rarest cat breeds globally. If you own a Khao Manee, you have a piece of feline history right in your home!
If you’re looking for a cat that’s smart, playful, and deeply affectionate, the Khao Manee ticks all the boxes. These kitties are bursting with curiosity and love to explore every nook and cranny of their home. Expect them to investigate new objects and follow you around like a loyal little shadow.
Unlike some aloof breeds, Khao Manees crave interaction. They thrive on attention, playtime, and mental stimulation, making them an excellent choice for engaged owners. While they can be moderately vocal, their meows are often soft, musical, and charming rather than demanding.
The Khao Manee is a medium-sized, athletic cat with a sleek, muscular build. Their most distinctive feature is, of course, their pure white coat and their stunning eye colour variations.
Their eyes can be blue, gold, green, or odd-eyed, giving them a captivating and unique look. Many believe the odd-eyed Khao Manees are particularly lucky—and let’s be honest, they certainly look like magical creatures!
The Khao Manee is generally a healthy breed, but they do have a higher risk of deafness, particularly those with blue eyes.
The Khao Manee can make a fantastic family pet, but they do best with experienced cat owners who understand their high-energy needs. They are generally good with children and other pets, as long as introductions are done gradually.
Yes! The Khao Manee is best suited for indoor living for several reasons:
The Khao Manee is low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, sleek coat doesn’t tangle or mat easily, making them an easy-care breed.
A balanced diet is crucial for Khao Manees to maintain their health and well-being. High-quality cat food, whether wet or dry, should be the foundation of their diet, providing essential nutrients and vitamins. Portion control is important to prevent obesity, as Khao Manees can be prone to weight gain if overfed.
Fresh water should always be available to ensure adequate hydration. Occasional treats can be given in moderation, but should not make up a significant portion of their diet. It’s also essential to choose cat food appropriate for their age and activity level, as kittens, adults, and seniors have different nutritional needs.
High-quality cat food (wet or dry)
Portion control to prevent obesity
Fresh water always available
Occasional treats in moderation
Choose food appropriate for age and activity level
Khao Manees are known as the “Diamond Eye” cat due to their striking eyes, which can be blue, gold, green, or odd-eyed.
They are considered an ancient and royal breed in Thailand.
The name “Khao Manee” translates to “white gem.”
Khao Manees were relatively unknown outside of Thailand until recent years, making them quite rare.
They are often depicted in Thai art.
Yes, Khao Manees can be good with children, provided they are introduced gradually and treated with respect.
Khao Manees have low shedding tendencies due to their short and sleek coats. Regular grooming can further minimise shedding.
Khao Manees are known for being moderately vocal.
With proper care, Khao Manees typically live between 10 to 12 years.
No, Khao Manees have low grooming needs.
Turkish Angora: Similar elegant build and intelligent personality, but longer coat.
Oriental Shorthair: Share similar body type and vocalness.
Foreign White: Siamese cats with an all-white coat.
Devon Rex: Share some similar characteristics with a short coat
Russian White: Russian breed with similar build, plusher coat
The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.
The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.
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