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Tonkinese

Tonkinese

The Tonkinese cat breed is medium sized of Oriental build with a gently rounded head with broad ears, set wide apart. The eyes are more open than the classic Oriental shape and can range from green to light blue in colour. The body is well balanced, firm and muscular. The Tonkinese cat's coat is short and close lying with a fine, soft and silky texture. The mask, ears, legs and tail, are definitely darker than the body and merge gently with the body colour. The Tonkinese cat breed comes in a range of colours.

The need-to-know
  • Highly active and inquisitive cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Very talkative cat
  • Lean and elegant cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Needs some out-door space
  • May require familiarisation before living with children

Personality

The Tonkinese cat breed has the same affectionate, friendly nature, as its close relatives the Burmese and Siamese. These cats are very people-orientated and make ideal family pets – they are said to be very inquisitive and intelligent. They can be trained to do tricks and require toys and games for amusement. They love company and if they are to be left alone for long periods of time a companion is a necessity. They are quite vocal and will chatter happily to you and follow you around.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: USA

Other Names: Golden Siamese

The Tonkinese cat breed is the result of crossing a Siamese cat with a Burmese cat and, therefore, displays characteristics from both breeds. Mostly ignored when they were first developed as 'Golden Siamese' cat in America 1950s, it was not until the 1960s when they reappeared as Tonkinese that their popularity grew.

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