Tonkinese

Canada / USA · 1960s

Siamese-Burmese mix — social, playful, chatty

SizeMedium6–12 lb
Life span12–16 years
CoatShort
Typical price$1,000–$1,800

Tonkinese combine Siamese and Burmese: a medium, muscular body, a soft short coat and, in the classic mink color, aqua eyes. They are outgoing and affectionate.

At a glance

EnergyActive
Cuddlylikes touch and being heldLap & hugs
TalkativeChatty
GroomingMinimal
SheddingLow
With kidsGreat
With petsLoves company
Alone timehow long they’re happy aloneNeeds company

Life with a Tonkinese

Tonks greet everyone, play fetch and love being involved and held. They talk, but more softly than a Siamese. Alone, they get bored and mischievous.

Great for
  • Families with kids
  • Homes with other pets
  • People who are home a lot
Think twice if
  • You work long hours and live alone
  • You want a quiet, independent cat
Care tips
  • Weekly brushing.
  • Daily play.
  • Dental care.

Health

Generally healthy. Gum disease is common, and inherited problems from Siamese or Burmese ancestors (such as PRA or hypokalemia) can appear.

Ask the breeder for
  • PRA (rdAc) DNA test
  • Hypokalemia DNA test
  • Parents’ dental history
Typical US price$1,000–$1,800
RegistriesCFA · TICAAsk for both parents’ papers

Prices are rough ranges from registered breeders and vary by line, color and region. A much cheaper “purebred” kitten is a common scam sign.

See Tonkinese kittens

Similar breeds

BurmeseActive · Very cuddlySiameseVery active · CuddlyBombayActive · Very cuddly
Compare with similar breeds

Sources: breed standards and profiles from CFA and TICA, DNA tests listed by the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, and veterinary breed profiles.