Thailand's Cabinet has approved a proposal to officially recognize Thai cats as national pet symbols, following recommendations from the National Identity Committee, marking a significant milestone in preserving the country's feline heritage and cultural identity.
The decision, announced by Prime Minister's Office spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat, comes after a proposal from the National Identity Committee and the National Savings Bank recognized Thai cats' unique characteristics and their deep-rooted presence in Thai society, emphasizing their role as living symbols of heritage intertwined with local beliefs and wisdom.
Five purebred Thai cat breeds have been officially recognized: Suphalak, Korat, Wichienmas (Siamese), Konja, and Khao Manee, each distinguished by their distinct features, temperaments, and centuries-old presence in Thai culture, folklore, and traditions that have fascinated cat enthusiasts both domestically and internationally.
The designation aims to protect Thailand's feline heritage from foreign breeders attempting to register these cats under international breed standards, sparking concerns over cultural misappropriation and the need to preserve genetic lines, while also promoting conservation, standardization, and wider adoption among pet lovers.
This recognition aligns with Thailand's broader strategy to define and protect national symbols, joining the Thai elephant as national animal, the Betta fighting fish as national aquatic animal, and the wai gesture as national greeting, while boosting the nation's soft power and economic potential through cultural preservation and international recognition.
