Information for pet owners on traits, history, caring for their animals, and other subjects
Love Siamese and Burmese cats but only have space for one cat? You’re in luck since the Tonkinese cat delivers the finest of all worlds. Any cat lover will enjoy the gregarious intelligence of the Tonkinese cat. The Tonkinese cat, which is a cross between the Siamese and Burmese, has a distinctively unique personality and is a stunning pointed cat with softer, more muted hues.
The Tonkinese stand out because they are devoid of any extreme physical or mental traits. The breed was developed as a result of Siamese and Burmese cat owners’ desire for a distinctive cross between the two types.
Breed Overview
- WEIGHT: Between six and 12 pounds
- LENGTH: Varies greatly
- COAT: Short
- COAT COLOR: The Tonkinese comes in a variety of color combos. Base colors are platinum, champagne, blue, and natural; patterns are solid, mink, and point.
- EYE COLOR: Blue, aqua, or yellow-green
- LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 16 years
Characteristics of the Tonkinese Cat
| Affection Level | Very High |
| Friendliness | High |
| Kid-Friendly | High |
| Pet-Friendly | High |
| Exercise Needs | Medium |
| Playfulness | High |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Trainability | Medium-High |
| Intelligence | Medium-High |
| Tendency to Vocalize | Medium-High |
| Shedding | High |
The History of the Tonkin Cat
Siamese and Burmese cat aficionados wanted a cat with similar traits, but at a more manageable level, therefore they developed tonkinese cats. Even though the Tonkinese is vivacious and active, it doesn’t need additional stimulus to be happy. They occasionally enjoy speaking and chirping, although they are not as loud as their Siamese mother. Even their physical characteristics complement each other beautifully; the short and stocky Burmese add to their heaviness while the slender Siamese provides them some height and agility.
The Tonkinese came to America for the first time in the 1930s. Wong Mau, the same female cat who founded the Burmese breed in the United States, created the Tonkinese breed; some Tonkinese lineages can still be traced to Wong Mau today.
Maintaining Tonkinese cats
The Tonkinese requires very little maintenance. Because the short coat requires less maintenance, grooming is rarely necessary. Regular play is all that bees need to stay in shape, though occasionally having puzzle toys would be helpful.
Contrary to many other cats, the Tonkinese cat is quite social and loves human interaction. If you want a cat that can be happy at home by itself while you put in long hours at the office, the Tonkinese cat is not the best option for you. They are excellent company and would like to spend as much time with you as possible.
Tonkinese are prone to gingivitis, thus you should start brushing their teeth when they are kittens so they become used to it over time. You might also think about adding water additives to assist preserve the purity and wellbeing of their lovely whites.
The Tonkinese cat truly has a balanced, as usual, moderate demeanor. They are clever and active, yet they don’t really cause any trouble or bounce off the walls. They respond when talked to, albeit they don’t always make noise. Despite the fact that they enjoy playing, they are always eager to sit in your lap and cuddle.
The only trait that is excessive is the Tonkinese’s level of connection. The Tonkinese cat is known for being a devoted lap cat who adores humans. Families with young children that need a tolerant, lively cat to complement their home would get along brilliantly with Tonkinese.
If you don’t already have a cat, think about obtaining one. Tonkinese cats like having a playmate and friend when their owners are away. If the Tonkinese are maintained in the same setting as other house pets, they will rapidly make friends with them.
Common Health Problems
Although generally in good condition, Tonkinese cats can occasionally be more susceptible to dental issues and feline LUTS (FLUTD).
When urinating, cats with FLUTD feel pain or discomfort. Although it usually affects overweight cats, certain breeds, like the Tonkinese, are more prone to it. The following signs and symptoms of FLUTD in your Tonkinese:
- Making an attempt to urinate frequently
- Giggling as you urinate
- Urinating outdoors of the bathroom
Along with other illnesses, the Tonkinese may be more prone to excessive protein deposits in their organs and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and gastric discomfort.
In Tonkinese cats, an excessive amount of amyloid protein is released into an organ, mainly the liver, as a result of a fault in Siamese lines. The signs and symptoms of this illness include lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and/or eyes), and limb edema.
Make sure your Tonkinese gets the yearly exams, balanced nutrition, and regular vet visits that a cat needs to stay healthy.
Food intake and diet
The Tonkinese cat, like many cats today, is prone to obesity and requires a diet rich in a variety of nutrients. Other risk factors should also be taken into consideration while choosing the right meal for your Tonkinese.
Many foods are designed to promote oral health, maintain a stable pH level in the urine to help prevent bladder stones and FLUTD, and control weight. If you want guidance on the best cat food, talk to your veterinarian.
Breeds of Cats Not Listed Here and More Research
Do you want to learn more about purebred cats? If you like the Tonkinese, look at the following breeds:
- Burmese, Siamese, and Bengalese
Otherwise, browse all of our cat breed profiles.
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