Khao Manee
Discover the Khao Manee, a rare ancient Thai breed of solid-white cats with jewel-like eyes, distinct from the Siamese, and learn its history and standards.
The Khao Manee is a rare, ancient Thai breed of solid-white cats with jewel-like eyes, distinct from the Siamese. This breed, known as the "White Gem," is prized for its muscular build, short smooth coat, and unique eye colors ranging from blue to gold, often with one of each.
History traces back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom
The Khao Manee is an ancient breed with roots stretching back hundreds of years, mentioned in the Tamra Maew (Cat Book Poems) alongside other Thai breeds like the Siamese and Korat. While the Ayutthaya Kingdom (AD 1351–1767) recorded 23 species of cats fed at the royal palace, specific records for the Khao Manee were absent, though white cats were noted. Historical records reappeared in the Thonburi Kingdom (AD 1768–1782) after the fall of Ayutthaya, specifically at the Wat Arun temple where King Taksin established his capital.
During the reign of King Nangklao (AD 1824–1851), the breed became more frequently documented, with paintings found in temples. Originally called the 'Khao Plort' (meaning "complete white"), the name Khao Manee ("white jewel") was adopted during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (1868–1910). The breed was historically kept by Siam's royalty and was believed to bring good luck, with legends claiming a cat with eyes like precious stones funded the construction of a monastery with a sum of 150 billion Baht in 1993.
Introduction to the West and modern breeding
The Khao Manee was introduced to the United States in 1999 when Colleen Freymuth imported 12 cats. In 2004, Frédéric Lachaud-Goedert joined the effort in France, and together with Janet Poulsen, they worked to secure global recognition. In Poland, Aneta Olszewska and her daughter Weronika founded DiamondEyes Cattery, the only officially registered Khao Manee cattery in the country, which has produced three World Champions.
While Thai breeders traditionally mated white to white to preserve the lineage, Western breeders have varied approaches. Some screen genetic information to maintain the heritage, while others cross the breed with colored Asian cats. The breed gained "registration only" status from TICA in May 2009, advanced to Championship level in May 2015, and received official recognition from the CFA in February 2018. It is not recognized by FIFe, though it is accepted by the WCF.
Appearance and physical traits
The Khao Manee is a muscular, athletic cat of moderate build with a short, smooth, close-lying coat that lacks an undercoat. The entire body is solid white, with pink paw pads and nose leather. They are known to be active, communicative, and intelligent. The eyes are the breed's most striking feature, described as brilliant, clear, and vivid, resembling precious gemstones.
Eye colors can be blue (including aqua), golden (including shades of brown, copper, amber, yellow, and hazel), or green. Odd-eyed Khao Manees, possessing one eye of each color or multiple colors within one eye, are the rarest variety. The breed is distinct from the Siamese or Thai, as well as the Foreign White, which has a different genetic structure and breeding policy.
Rarity and value
As one of the rarest feline breeds in the world, the Khao Manee commands high prices, sometimes reaching up to US$11,000. In Thailand, the breed remains popular due to its association with the monarchy and legends of extreme felicity and healing. The name "White Gem" reflects its status as a coveted possession of Thai royalty, believed to bring sudden fortune and religious discovery to its owner.