Where Did Tonkinese Cats Come From?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The Tonkinese is a

mix of the Siamese and Burmese cat breeds

and has a loving, affectionate personality.

What breeds make a Tonkinese cat?

The Tonkinese is a

mix of the Siamese and Burmese cat breeds

and has a loving, affectionate personality.

Why are they called Tonkinese?

The name under its original spelling of Tonkanese was said to reference the musical South Pacific, which featured an island where no one discriminated against “half-breeds.” There was often confusion about the spelling, however, so in 1971 the name was officially changed to Tonkinese—

after the exotic-sounding Bay of

What are Tonkinese cats known for?

The Tonkinese is an alert, active cat with good muscular development. Tonkinese cats are very personable and are known for their

good temperament and loyal companionship

.

Is Tonkinese cat rare?


Tonkinese cats are rare

, but their personality makes them worth the extra mile. Shyness is not a Tonk’s vocabulary. This is an extroverted breed that will welcome guests whole-heartedly. They also pamper their families with love and cuddles.

How smart are Tonkinese cats?

Like both parent breeds, Tonkinese are

intelligent, active, vocal

and generally people-oriented cats, playful and interested in everything going on around them; however, this also means they are easily susceptible to becoming lonesome or bored.

Are Tonkinese cats like dogs?

Tonkinese cats are affectionate, amusing, talkative, and notoriously great with children. …

Almost dog-like

, the Tonkinese does not like to be left alone for long periods of time, so it is recommended that you keep it occupied with another pet, such as another cat or a dog.

Is Tonkinese purebred?

History. Once called the Golden Siamese, the Tonkinese is in fact

a hybrid of Burmese and Siamese breeds

. Initially developed in the United States in the 1930s, the blend of these two breeds resulted in a type which displayed obvious, but more refined characteristics of each.

Are Tonkinese cats healthy?

Though

the Tonkinese is generally healthy

, they are sometimes more prone to dental disease and feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). … It’s common in overweight cats but some breeds, like the Tonkinese, are affected by it more often. Signs that your Tonkinese may have FLUTD include: Straining to urinate.

Are Tonkinese cats talkative?

Communicating with Your Talkative Cat

Life with a Tonkinese cat will never be boring. These cats

are talkative

and they crave lots of attention. … Consider the temperaments of other cats in your household and make sure the Tonkinese’s playfulness will be a welcome fit.

Do Tonkinese cats like to be held?

They are prone to being lap cats and enjoy being close to their family members. They are also alert and active but

can be stubborn

.

How long does a Tonkinese cat live?

The lifespan of the Tonkinese ranges from

10-15 years

. Average weight: 10-14 pounds.

Are Tonkinese cats good with children?

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children,

all cats are different

and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

What Colour eyes do Tonkinese cats have?

Solid-patterned Tonkinese have

‘Green’ eye-colour

– however the eye colour differs from the Burmese, with a yellow/green replacing the gold of the Burmese. I like to compare the Tonkinese eye-colours to gemstones, in order to describe the 3 different eye-colours that define the Tonkinese breed.

Can Tonkinese cats be alone?

Due to their social and playful nature,

Tonkinese cats do not like to be left home alone

. Owners of this breed are advised to get their cat a feline friend to keep them busy throughout the day, as they are known to get bored easily.

Are Tonkinese cats hypoallergenic?

Tonkinese cats are often

branded as a hypoallergenic breed

. … Take note that some cats produce more Fel D1 than other breeds. This is the reason why some cat breeds seem to be hypoallergenic. In general, the short-haired Tonkinese is tolerable for those with cat allergies.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.