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Cats

Tonkinese

Tonkinese

Classification and scientific name: Felis catus

Sources checked:

Read point/body contrast alongside the range of eye and coat colors

Modern standards developed through breeding Siamese and Burmese lines. The place-associated name does not describe a separate wild species naturally arising there.

Origins and distribution
Breed developed from Siamese and Burmese lines

  • Tonkinese
  • Domestic cat
  • Observe individual temperament
Reference photograph of a Tonkinese

Reference photograph

Tonkinese reference photograph. Compare the individual’s color and form with the identification descriptions in the text.

Source: Stephen Dann · Original material · CC BY-SA 2.0

1. Classification, origins and habitat

Modern standards for this domestic breed developed through breeding Siamese and Burmese lines. A place-associated name does not make it a separate wild species naturally arising there. Combining two breeds in its origins differs from claiming each cat has exactly half of each temperament. Distinguish names and registration standards to compare similar Siamese, Burmese and Tonkinese photographs accurately.

2. Appearance and identification

Soft head contours, firm body and close-lying short hair are typical. Color contrast between points and body and eye color can vary with pattern type; not all individuals have identical aqua eyes. Growth and lighting can alter apparent color. Observe features between slender Siamese show types and Burmese types, without using intermediate to fix every proportion.

3. Behavior and way of life

Human interaction and participation in play are described tendencies. Responses to unfamiliar people and animals depend on experiences while growing up and current environment. Combining only the best of both breeds does not guarantee a perfect personality. Observe following toys, resting and watching people in separate situations. Check relationships with housemate cats while providing resources and places to withdraw.

4. Observation, conservation and care

Care for short hair while watching skin, condition and the balance of food, play and rest. A tendency to seek interaction does not remove the need for solitary rest. Check window and high-place safety and water/litter-box arrangements for multiple animals. Eye color alone cannot establish breed: verify the source and whole appearance. Tonkinese is not a generic name for all pointed cats.

Evidence and references