The Khao Manee (
ขาวมณี), or
Diamond Eye cat, is a rare breed from Thailand whose ancient ancestry can be traced back hundreds of years.The blue eye is often considered the "Diamond Eye" of the Khao Manee.
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Khao Manee Cat - © Michael LaPalme |
The Cat that brings you Good Luck
business meets success with prosperity,
like a priceless jewel
- The Cat Book of Poems (1350 - 1767)
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Khao Manee Cat - © Michael LaPalme |
King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) owned 9 of these beautiful creatures and this breed is considered as the "Royal Cat" of Siam. Most people incorrectly assume that this distinction belongs to the traditional seal point Siamese cat. According to legend, the penalty for stealing a Khao Manee was death.
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Khao Manee Cat - © Michael LaPalme |
The Khao Manee is considered to be the original royal cat breed of Siam. They were fiercely protected and could only be owned by Royalty.
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Khao Manee Cat - © Michael LaPalme |
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Khao Manee Cat - © Michael LaPalme |
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Khao Manee Cat - © Michael LaPalme |
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Khao Manee Cat - © Michael LaPalme |
Khao Manees are usually born with two blue eyes, or one eye that is blue, with the other either green or amber. My cat has one light blue and one light green eye. He is very smart, friendly and has good manners.