What is the difference between a British Shorthair and a Korat?

The British Shorthair is 9–18 lbs sized while the Korat is 6–10 lbs sized. They differ in size (9–18 lbs vs 6–10 lbs), lifespan (12–20 years vs 10–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, British Shorthair or Korat?

British Shorthair is generally good with kids. Korat is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, British Shorthair or Korat?

The British Shorthair has a lifespan of 12–20 years while the Korat has a lifespan of 10–15 years.

British Shorthair vs Korat — Breed Comparison

About the British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is one of the oldest and most recognizable cat breeds — tracing its roots to the domestic cats of Roman-era Britain, later refined through selective breeding in the 19th century. This large, stocky breed weighs 9–18 pounds and is famous for its round face, dense double coat, and broad, powerful build. While the "British Blue" (solid gray-blue) is the most iconic variety, the breed comes in an extensive range of colors and patterns.

Temperament & Personality

British Shorthairs are dignified, calm cats that prefer to keep all four paws on the ground — they are not typically lap cats and may resist being picked up. They are affectionate on their own terms, loyal to their families, and generally tolerant of well-behaved children and other pets. Their unflappable, easygoing nature makes them one of the most popular companion breeds worldwide.

Pros

Robust health and impressive longevity — commonly lives 14–20 years
Low-maintenance temperament — calm, quiet, and not prone to behavioral issues
Dense plush coat is easy to groom with weekly brushing
Handles being alone well — ideal for working professionals

Cons

Highly prone to obesity — requires strict diet management and play encouragement
Can develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and polycystic kidney disease
Not a cuddly lap cat — prefers to sit near you rather than on you
Slow to mature — takes 3–5 years to reach full physical development

The British Shorthair could be your perfect low-key companion — search for adoptable cats on Puplister now.

About the Korat

The Korat is one of the oldest natural cat breeds — originating in Nakhon Ratchasima (historically called "Korat") province of Thailand and documented in the Tamra Maew as early as the 14th century. This small-to-medium breed weighs 6–10 pounds and has a semi-cobby, muscular body with a distinctive heart-shaped face and large, luminous green eyes. Their single coat is exclusively silver-tipped blue — each hair is lighter at the root and tipped with silver, giving the entire cat a shimmering, halo-like appearance.

Temperament & Personality

Korats are gentle, intelligent cats that form extraordinarily strong bonds with their families and prefer quiet, stable environments. They can be shy with strangers but are deeply devoted to their people — often choosing one person as their absolute favorite. They do well with respectful children and calm companion cats, though they tend to assert dominance over other pets in the household.

Pros

Stunning silver-blue coat with a unique shimmering "halo" effect
Naturally healthy with a long lifespan — often living 15–20 years
Extremely loyal and forms deep, lasting bonds with their owner
Single coat sheds very little and requires minimal grooming

Cons

Prone to GM1 and GM2 gangliosidosis — fatal genetic storage diseases (testable)
Startles easily and is sensitive to loud noises and sudden movements
Can be possessive of their owner and jealous of other pets
Very low body fat — sensitive to anesthesia and temperature changes

Experience the ancient beauty of the Korat — find cats looking for loving homes on Puplister.

British Shorthair vs Korat