Tonkinese
Also known as: Tonk
The Tonkinese is the perfect blend of the Siamese and Burmese — more outgoing than the Burmese, more relaxed than the Siamese. They have aquamarine eyes in the mink pattern, a social nature that makes them ideal for busy households, and a playfulness that lasts well into adulthood.
About
The Tonkinese is the perfect blend of the Siamese and Burmese — more outgoing than the Burmese, more relaxed than the Siamese. They have aquamarine eyes in the mink pattern, a social nature that makes them ideal for busy households, and a playfulness that lasts well into adulthood.
History
The Tonkinese was developed in Canada in the 1960s by Margaret Conroy, who crossed a Burmese with a Siamese. The aim was a cat with the best traits of both breeds. The first cat shown as a Tonkinese was named "Milan" in 1971. The breed was officially recognised in 1979.
Care & Health
The Tonkinese is a generally healthy breed. They inherit some risk of conditions from both parent breeds — monitor kidney and liver health from middle age. They are highly social and do not thrive if left alone for extended periods; a companion cat is recommended for working owners.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- Canada (bred from Siamese and Burmese)
- Life Span
- 12–16 years
- Size
- medium
- Hair Shed
- little
- Grooming
- Once a week
- Good with Kids
- high
- Feeding Cost
- $10–$15 p/w
- Colours
- Natural, champagne, blue or platinum in solid, mink or pointed patterns.
Health Considerations
Grooming
Short silky coat is very low maintenance. A weekly wipe-down is sufficient.
Related Resources
Similar Breeds
Siamese
The Siamese is one of the world's oldest and most recognisable cat breeds — a sleek, elegant blue-eyed beauty with an unmistakable voice. Extroverted, demanding and endlessly entertaining, Siamese cats consider themselves full family members and will not accept being ignored.
Burmese
Often described as "bricks wrapped in silk", the Burmese is a deceptively heavy, muscular cat with an incredibly affectionate personality. They form deep bonds with their owners, following them from room to room, and do not like being left alone for long periods.
Balinese
Often compared to a Siamese cat, the Balinese is a long-haired breed with a graceful appearance. With large perky ears and long elegant lines, this breed is loved for its distinct features — blue eyes, a slender body and a luscious plumed tail. They are vocal, affectionate and highly intelligent.