Tonkinese cats are ideal for anyone seeking a feline companion with an affectionate, playful, and sociable personality that thrives on interaction and attention.
History and origins
Dr. Joseph Chessman Thompson played a notable role in the development of the Tonkinese breed. In the 1930s, he imported a small, walnut-brown cat named Wong Mau from Burma to the United States. Wong Mau was crossbred with a Siamese cat, and is credited as the matriarch of both the Burmese and Tonkinese breeds.
In the 1950s, New York breeder Milan Greer experimented with crossbreeding Siamese and Burmese cats, which he called ‘Golden Siamese’ but abandoned the program when the breed didn’t gain significant recognition.
The 1960s marked a turning point for the modern Tonkinese breed. Canadian breeder, Margaret Conroy crossbred a seal point Siamese with a sable Burmese, producing cats with a blend of traits from both parent breeds. These cats had a moderate body type and came in a variety of coat colours and patterns. At the same time, American breeder Jane Barletta was working hard to refine the breed in the United States, ensuring that the Tonkinese cats had a consistent appearance and temperament.
By the 1970s, the breed was slowly gaining popularity. The Canadian Cat Association officially recognised the Tonkinese in 1971, marking a significant milestone for the breed. This followed recognition by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1979, and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 1984.
Physical characteristics
Tonkinese cats are known for their striking appearance, combining the best features of their Siamese and Burmese ancestors. A medium-sized cat, they typically have a sleek, muscular build with a distinctive wedge-shaped head with gently rounded contours and medium-large ears that sit slightly forward. Their almond-shaped eyes are set at a slight angle and come in a variety of colours, ranging from sparkling aqua blue to vibrant green or yellow-green.
The Tonkinese cat’s coat is short, fine, and lies close to the body, with a soft and silky texture and a lustrous sheen. This breed comes in a diverse range of coat colours and patterns, including solid, pointed, and mink variations.
Tonkinese cat personality
Tonkinese cats are known for their affectionate and playful personalities. They demand a lot of love and attention and thoroughly enjoy interactive games like tag and hide-and-seek with their human companions or other pets in the household. Tonkinese cats retain their playful nature and kitten-like energy well into adulthood. This playfulness is matched by their intelligence; Tonkinese cats are quick learners and can be trained to perform tricks, fetch or even walk on a leash. Their sharp minds also make them adept at solving puzzles and finding ways to entertain themselves.
Scratching posts and a variety of toys are essential to keep your fun-loving Tonkinese entertained. Many owners choose to have two Tonkinese cats to ensure they are never lonely or bored. These sociable cats will enthusiastically greet all visitors at the door, often giving the most attention to children. They also appreciate the company of other animals, readily making friends with dogs and other cats.
Tonkinese cats are known to be vocal although their voices are softer and gentler in tone than those of the Siamese breed. They communicate with a variety of sounds, from gentle chirps to more insistent meows, expressing their needs and desires clearly to their owners. This vocalisation is often accompanied by a desire for physical closeness, as Tonks love to be involved in their owners’ activities, whether it’s lounging on a lap or following them from room to room.
Their combination of affectionate, social, and playful traits makes Tonkinese cats delightful companions for families and individuals alike.
Interesting facts
- The Tonkinese name is not a reference to the Tonkin region of Indochina (northern Vietnam). The name is actually linked to the musical ‘South Pacific’ where half breeds were not discriminated against.
- In August 1970, the world’s largest litter of domestic cats was born to a Burmese/Siamese cat in Oxfordshire, UK. The Guinness Book of World Records recorded the birth of 19 Tonkinese kittens, although four were stillborn.
Caring for your Tonkinese cat
Tonkinese cats are best suited to an indoor lifestyle, as their friendly trusting nature may make them less likely to defend themselves against potential predators.
In terms of grooming, they have an easy-care coat that does not need a lot of maintenance. Brushing once a week will remove any loose hairs and keep their luxurious mink-like coat in top condition.
Whilst generally a healthy breed, Tonkinese cats are prone to a few health issues including feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), respiratory diseases such as asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a form of heart disease. Responsible breeders typically conduct genetic health tests on kittens for genetic health issues, but seek veterinary care if you notice any concerning symptoms.
Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are essential for keeping your Tonkinese cat healthy. This includes vaccinations, parasite control, dental care, and preventive treatments. Discussing any breed-specific health concerns with your veterinarian can help in the early detection of potential health issues.
Before welcoming a Tonkinese cat into your life, please research the breed to ensure they are a good match for your family and lifestyle. Remember, responsible pet ownership is a lifelong commitment.
