Tonkinese

The Tonkinese is a medium pointed cat breed created in Canada during the 1960s.

Canadian breeder Margaret Conroy paired a sable Burmese female with a seal point Siamese in 1965 to produce an intermediate feline type. American breeder Jane Barletta worked along matching lines independently, helping unify standards across North America. The Canadian Cat Association approved championship recognition in 1971. The International Cat Association accepted the breed in 1979, and the Cat Fanciers Association granted full championship status in 1984. Earlier foundation stock traces back to Wong Mau, imported from Burma in 1930.

Mature males weigh 3 to 5 kg (7 to 12 lb) and exhibit surprisingly solid muscular weight on a moderate frame. The short silky coat lies tight against the torso and shows mink, pointed, or solid coat patterns with distinctive aquamarine, blue, or green-gold eyes. Standards describe the cat as gregarious, loving, and talkative, showing deep loyalty toward people and companion animals. These felines jump high and regularly fetch tossed household objects.

Caring for the short coat takes minimal effort, requiring only weekly grooming with a soft rubber brush to eliminate loose hairs. Occasional nail trimming and weekly teeth cleanings support basic hygiene indoors. Because individuals seek constant companionship, they thrive best in homes with another animal playmate. Notable medical problems documented in lines include feline lower urinary tract disease, inflammatory bowel disease, corneal sequestrum, and amyloidosis.