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Tonkinese

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Tonkinese (Face, Muzzle)
Face, Muzzle
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Tonkinese (Lying, Blue & Silver)
Lying, Blue & Silver
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Tonkinese (Lying, Muzzle)
Lying, Muzzle

Breed Information

Popularity

2018: #20

2017: #19

Name Tonkinese
Other names Tonk
Origin Canada
Size Small to Medium
Coat

Medium-short

Silky

Soft

Plush

Lap Cat Yes
Life span 14-16 years
Temperament

Curious

Intelligent

Social

Lively

Outgoing

Playful

Affectionate

Weight

Male: 8 - 12 pounds

Female: 6 - 8 pounds

Colors

Blue

Fawn

Silver

Cream

Kitten Prices

Average $600 - $1000 USD

How Much Does a Tonkinese Kitten Cost? If there aren't many breeders operating in your area, the price of a Tonkinese kitten can easily tip over $1,000, and even reach $1,500. The cost of a Tonkinese cat will depend on the breeder, the quality, colors, pattern, breeder, bloodline and geographical location.

Breed Characteristics

Adaptability

5 stars

Affection Level

5 stars

Child Friendly

4 stars

Good With Others: It is usually good with adults, children (6+), and seniors and can be very affectionate towards them.

Dog Friendly

5 stars

Energy Level

5 stars

Grooming

3 stars

Low Maintenance: Occasional grooming is advised to keep its coat in good shape. Though we see cats regularly lick their coats to clean themselves, some regular grooming can be good; it removes hair, prevents matting, and stimulates circulation.

Health Issues

3 stars

Hypoallergenic: NoHealth Problems: Unfortunately, it is known to have a myriad count of illnesses and conditions. Owners with these cat breeds should prepare for some long-term medical costs or hedge their risks with pet insurance.

Intelligence

5 stars

Shedding

5 stars

Constant Shedding: Shedding will occur often for this cat breed. It is suggested to brush and comb its coat regularly to reduce the risk of it developing hairballs. Be prepared also to vacuum often.

Social Needs

5 stars

Stranger Friendly

5 stars

Vocalization

5 stars

Frequent Vocalization: It is known to be vocal. Owners might be concerned for excessive and undesirable crying or meowing, especially at night.

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Tonkinese Kitten (Kittens, Sitting)
Kittens, Sitting
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Tonkinese Kitten (Face, Muzzle)
Face, Muzzle
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Tonkinese Kitten (Lying, Side View)
Lying, Side View

Kitten Names

Rank Male Female
01 Toby Milkshake
02 Oliver Molly
03 Chunk Kiki
04 Coco Kitty
05 Diesel Belle
06 Lucky Boo
07 Tommy Gracie
08 Symba Gavin
09 Momo Lexi
10 Turbo Tippy
100 Cute Kitten Names ›

Overview

Tonkinese cats are generally trim and muscular cats. They are heavier than they appear to be due to their very muscular bodies. They have a distinctive oval shaped paw, and a modified wedge shaped head, with large ears set towards the outside of their head. The most commonly accepted colors are: platinum, champagne, blue, and natural. Typically, solid Tonkinese cats have gold or green eyes, cats with the pointed pattern are blue eyed, and the mink cats have a shade of aquamarine. A great deal of subtle variation exists in colors and patterns, and Tonkinese body color darkens with age to some degree in all patterns. Cats kept in colder climates will typically be darker in their mink or point shading, like their Siamese cousins.

Tonkinese cats are unusually intelligent, curious, affectionate toward and interested in people. Tonks are playful cats, but not hyperactive, although they can be mischievous if they become lonesome or bored. Some interesting toys and a cat tree, or another Tonkinese, will keep them occupied when you're not around. Unlike most breeds of cat, they are reported to sometimes, even often, engage in fetching, and they can often be found perched on the highest object in the house. Do not be alarmed if your Tonkinese jumps on your shoulders, as the breed is known for their love of heights. Tonkinese are more like Burmese in temperament than Siamese. They are less high strung and demanding. Their voices are also less piercing in most cases than the Siamese, but most Tonks are fairly vocal. Most observers feel they combine the more attractive features of both ancestor breeds.

Children & Other Pets

The active and social Tonkinese is a perfect choice for families with children and cat-friendly dogs. He will play fetch as well as any retriever, learns tricks easily and loves the attention he receives from children who treat him politely and with respect. He lives peacefully with cats and dogs who respect his authority. Always introduce pets slowly and in controlled circumstances to ensure that they learn to get along together.

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