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Tonkinese
Origin And History | It is believed that Tonkinese-like cats have existed in the West since at least the early 19th century. The founder of the American Burmese type, a female named Wong Mau imported to the USA in 1930, is thought to have been genetically a crossbreed of this type. More modern Tonkinese cats are the result of a Canadian crossbreeding program between the Siamese and Burmese breeds, with the aim of creating the ideal combination of both parent breeds' distinctive appearance and lively personalities. The cats thus produced were moved from crossbreed classification to an established breed in 2001. The name is a reference to the Tonkin region of Indochina, though it is suggestive only, as the cats have no connection with the area. Tonkinese cats under the age of sixth months have historically been referred to in the West as 'small-cats' rather than 'kittens' to reflect a more direct translation from Burmese, although this term has become almost obsolete since the mid-20th century. |
Personality | The Tonkinese has a winsome personality, not surprising since the Burmese and Siamese are prized for their temperaments. Faithful followers say the Tonkinese has the best of both breeds. His voice is milder in tone than the Siamese; however, he does believe in feline free speech and wants to share all of the day's adventures with you when you come home in the evening. The Tonkinese craves, and returns, affection and companionship. Unlike the rest of your busy family, he will always join you for dinner. He has an unflagging enthusiasm for life and life's pleasures, and loves interactive toys such as human fingers and the tails of his cat companions. He makes every close encounter a game. While Tonkinese cats willingly adapt to humans and animals alike, they may annoy more sedate breeds and therefore might do better with members of their own breed or other active breeds. Tonkinese are particularly popular among cat lovers who remember the Traditional Siamese and want a cat with a less extreme body style than currently exists in the show Siamese. The waiting list can therefore be long, since numbers are currently low. |
Physical Attributes
Appearance | The Tonkinese Cat is considered to be a medium sized cat breed and is often described as well-proportioned, well-shaped, and robust. Because the Tonkinese Cat breed is a medium sized cat breed it often weighs between 13 lbs to 16 lbs (6 kg to 7.25 kg). This cat would fit well in a medium sized home! The fur (or lack-there-of) of the Tonkinese Cat is often described as sleek, thin, and fuzzy. This is because this Tonkinese Cat breed has a strong bloodline! Their fur (or skin) may come in colors such as blue, cream, fawn, and silver; which can make them very unique among their peers. The Tonkinese Cat breed has a medium length tail. This is due to its origins and the genetics that were thought out when the cat was originally bred. The Tonkinese Cat breed has a reputation for having medium sized eyes which lead them to be more attractive than other feline breeds |
Health | Owners have stated that this cat is prone to health problems. This is a cat breed that requires extra attention as it gets older. Health issues are common among domesticated animals. The Tonkinese may be susceptible to Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease, Tapeworms, and Fleas. |