Khao Manee Cats: Thailand’s “White Gem” With Diamond Eyes

From royal manuscripts to modern rings – a verified origin story

Khao Manee is a natural Thai breed whose name means “white gem.” Historic Thai cat poems (Tamra Maew) mention an auspicious solid-white cat called Khao Plort. Western development began in 1999 when Colleen Freymouth imported a cat named Sripia from Thailand and produced the first North American litter; soon after, Janet Poulsen (Odyssey cattery) exported the first Khao Manee to the UK. In TICA the timeline is precise: Registration Only in May 2009, Preliminary New Breed effective May 2012, Advanced New Breed on August 30, 2013, and advancement to Championship on January 24, 2015 (effective May 1, 2015). In CFA, the breed has been in the Miscellaneous Class since May 1, 2018. In the UK, GCCF granted the breed name on September 8, 2010, with Khao Manee Cat Club pre-affiliation on October 26, 2011.

Varieties within the breed – what “white only” allows

Color: solid white only for the breed standard and shows; non-white kittens can occur but are not showable as Khao Manee.

Eyes: blue, gold (copper through amber), green, or odd-eyed; odd-eyed cats are permitted and traditionally prized.

Hearing note: as with many white, blue-eyed cats, congenital deafness can occur; responsible breeders use BAER hearing tests.

Physical profile – size, build, head, ears, eyes, nose, tail, coat

Size and weight: females typically 6–8 lb (2.7–3.6 kg), males 8–11 lb (3.6–5.0 kg).

Body: medium, athletic, semi-foreign type; agile and springy rather than heavy.

Head and face: characteristic Thai heart-shaped head with high cheekbones; medium-length nose.

Ears: large, upright, open at the base for an alert expression.

Eyes: large and jewel-like in any allowed color or odd-eyed.

Nose leather and paw pads: must be pink; any other color is grounds to withhold awards under show rules.

Coat: short, smooth, close-lying white coat; a naturally moderate undercoat can vary by climate.

What makes a Khao Manee unique: the combination of a pure white coat, brilliant gemstone-like eyes (often odd-eyed), and the Thai heart-shaped head type.

Personality and everyday habits – engaging, intelligent, people-centered

Khao Manee cats are typically curious, playful, communicative, and highly social. Many enjoy fetch-style games and follow-you-around companionship. Expect an interactive cat that appreciates daily engagement and enrichment.

Lifespan and health – realistic expectations and proactive care

Lifespan: often around 10–12 years with good preventive care.

Deafness risk: white cats, especially with one or both blue eyes, can have unilateral or bilateral congenital deafness; BAER testing is the gold standard for screening.

General care: routine wellness exams, vaccinations, and dental care; grooming needs are low due to the short coat.

Quick comparisons – how Khao Manee differs from close cousins

Not a Foreign White Siamese: Foreign White is a Siamese derivative; Khao Manee is a separate Thai natural breed with distinct standards and bloodlines.

Not simply a white Thai/Siamese: standards specify type, head shape, coat rules, and permitted eye colors unique to Khao Manee.

Fun facts – name, legends, and show status

Name meaning: “Khao Manee” translates to “white gem,” echoing Thai lore that prized auspicious white cats and bright, gem-like eyes.

Today’s status: TICA Championship since 2015; CFA Miscellaneous since 2018; GCCF name and club pre-affiliation granted in 2010–2011.

Care tips for owners – food, grooming, environment, and vet care

Diet: feed a complete, high-quality diet appropriate for life stage and activity; fresh water available at all times.

Grooming: weekly brushing typically suffices; keep nails trimmed and teeth brushed; clean ears gently as needed.

Enrichment: provide vertical space, interactive play, and daily engagement to match their athletic, inquisitive nature.

Hearing and safety: discuss BAER screening with your vet if your cat has blue or odd eyes; keep cats indoors and supervise outdoor time to protect their rare, high-value look.

At a glance – essentials for quick reference

Status: TICA Championship (since 2015); CFA Miscellaneous (since 2018).

Origins: Thailand; first U.S. import in 1999 (Colleen Freymouth); early UK export by Janet Poulsen.

Defining traits: solid white coat; jewel-toned or odd eyes; heart-shaped head.

Size and weight: females 6–8 lb (2.7–3.6 kg); males 8–11 lb (3.6–5.0 kg).

Temperament: social, intelligent, playful, people-oriented.