Cat Breeds 101: Tonkinese – Image To Repin / Share
Photo: Wikipedia – lic. under CC 3.0
The Tonkinese is a breed of cat that was developed by crossing the Burmese and the Siamese breeds. The breed is actually the product of a breeding experiment which was aimed to create the new “mink” colors with aqua-colored eyes. Today, they are widely considered as the first pedigreed cat breed to possess the aqua eye color which best distinguishes them from other feline breeds.
The Tonkinese first earned its recognition in Canada. In 1984, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) granted its championship status. In the mid 1980’s, the breed was recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA). In 1991, the breed was initially registered by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF). It was only in 2001 when the breed was granted its championship status by the GCCF. [1]
The breed is loved by many fanciers because of its unique feline beauty. In addition to their elegantly athletic nature, Tonkinese cats also possess impressive poise and a seductive pair of eyes that enchant enthusiasts.
Tonkinese cats usually have a medium and muscular build. Surprisingly, they appear heavier than their actual weight. The breed comes in 12 colors and patterns. The most common base colors include blue, platinum, natural, and champagne. Some cats also appear in cream, tortoiseshell, cinnamon, red, blue, fawn, and lilac colors. Regardless of their color, Tonkinese cats usually have short and very silky coats. [2]
The male Tonkinese usually weighs heavier than its female counterpart. Males usually weigh an average of 8 to 12 pounds, while females weigh between 6 and 8 pounds. Their eyes normally come in almond shape. Meanwhile, they have medium-sized ears that are slightly pricked forward which signify their alertness. Meanwhile, their legs appear somewhat proportionate to their body size with the forelegs slightly shorter than their hind legs.
Today, the Tonkinese is considered as one of the most lovable companions at home. These cats seem to believe that they were created to be loved by humans. Given their impressive level of intelligence and affection, Tonkinese cats are the type that usually gets involved in every activity at home.
If there’s one thing that Tonkinese cats are really good at, that would perhaps be playing. They just love playing all kinds of games such as fetching, hide-and-seek, scratching, and climbing. Most cats of this breed actually remain playful throughout their lives.
Known to be very generous of their affection, Tonkinese cats want nothing more than landing on their owner’s lap, or to rest on the latter’s shoulders. Also known to be sociable cats, the Tonkinese also appears to be gracefully athletic.
Just like other short-coated cats, a Tonkinese only requires minimal grooming. Good quality diet and regular removal of loose hairs can help in keeping them in prime condition.
Despite the fact that these cats are slow maturing species, Tonkinese felines usually reach their reproductive maturity at such a young age. In some cases, some cats of this breed start becoming active breeders as young as four months old. This is one of the reasons why fanciers are advised to get their cat neutered early as guided by their vets if further breeding is not desired. [1]
References:
[1] https://www.gccfcats.org/breeds/tonk.html
[2] https://www.cfainc.org/Breeds/BreedsSthruT/Tonkinese.aspx