Tonkinese

Janelle Leeson
By

Janelle Leeson

. Reviewed by Hannah Hart, DVM
Updated Jan. 23, 2025
a brown tonkinese sitting next to a tonkinese kitten.

In This Article

General Care

Often called Tonks, the Tonkinese is a charming cross between Siamese and Burmese cats. While personalities vary, Tonkinese are typically loved for their even temperament—they’re just as eager to play as they are to snuggle up for a nap.

“Tonkinese are of a medium activity level; they really just want to be with you,” says Lynn Jordan, a Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) and The International Cat Association (TICA)-registered Tonkinese breeder and a nationally recognized Tonkinese exhibitor.

Tonkinese cats are medium in size, with females typically weighing 7–9 pounds and males 8–12 pounds.

Caring for a Tonkinese

Picture a cat with a rounded head and ears that sit lower than most, as much on the sides as on the top—that's the Tonk! Unlike today’s long and slinky wedge-head Siamese, Tonkinese resemble the classic apple-head Siamese, Jordan says.

As for their coat, Tonks can come in three coat patterns: pointed, mink, and sepia. Their coat is best known for its silky texture and eye-catching sheen. Plus, it’s low-shedding. A weekly brushing keeps fur in check.

A mix of Siamese and Burmese means inheriting a streak of curiosity, sharp intelligence, and a tendency for the zoomies. “A single Tonk kitten left alone for long periods can get bored and into trouble,” Jordan says. For busier households, a calmer adult Tonkinese may be the perfect fit.

Tonkinese Health Issues

a silver tonkinese cat lying in a box with her kittens.
Photo courtesy Takrai Tonkinese

Tonkinese cats have an average lifespan of 15–20 years.

To ensure you’re getting the healthiest Tonkinese kitten possible, ask your breeder what health conditions the parents were tested for. Adding pet insurance to your new kitten checklist can help cover future health-related costs. 

Dental Disease 

Keep a close eye on your cat’s teeth, and don’t skip their routine health checkups. At these annual appointments, your vet will examine your cat’s teeth and gums and recommend dental cleanings as needed. 

Cats are susceptible to dental issues including: 

Brushing your cat’s teeth is always best,” says Rachel Cocchiaro, DVM, veterinarian at Bahama Road Veterinary Hospital in Bahama, North Carolina.  

Between brushings, she recommends talking to your vet about adding dental treats or cat food approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) to your cat’s diet. Many products may claim to improve dental health by removing plaque and tartar, but only those on the VOHC-approved product list have been scientifically proven to be effective. 

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) 

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is most common in senior cats, though it can affect younger cats, too. 

Unfortunately, there are no genetic tests to predict whether your cat might develop nonheritable kidney disease. The good news is that symptoms can be managed when caught early.  

Early signs of chronic kidney disease in cats include: 

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) 

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is an inherited condition where cats develop fluid-filled cysts in their kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure. Responsible Tonkinese breeders will test cats before breeding to ensure they are not carriers of this disease. 

Obesity 

Like all cat breeds, Tonkinese cats can become overweight. According to Dr. Cocchiaro, a cat is at their ideal weight when you can feel their ribs beneath a thin layer of fat—similar to how the back of your hand feels with your palm open—and their waist is visible from above. 

Obesity in cats can lead to other health issues and make existing conditions worse. Talk to your vet about how you can help keep your cat at a healthy weight. 

Parasites  

“Even indoor cats can develop flea infestations or contract heartworm disease—although the risk is much lower than [for] outdoor cats,” Dr. Cocchiaro says.  

A monthly all-in-one parasite preventive is your cat’s best defense. For example, “NexGard Combo is a product that prevents all common external and internal parasites in cats, including fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms,” Dr. Cocchiaro says.  

Talk to your vet about the best parasite prevention for your cat.  

What To Feed a Tonkinese

To keep your Tonkinese healthy, choose a commercially available cat food that: 

Dr. Cocchiaro recommends diets formulated by experts and backed by extensive research. Purina Pro Plan, Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Iams are all excellent options.  

For a diet tailored to your cat’s needs, talk to your vet about the best food to feed your cat

How To Feed a Tonkinese  

Feeding your cat or kitten doesn’t have to be complicated. Many cat parents simply serve meals in a bowl, while others opt for automatic feeders.  

Some pet parents choose to explore ways to mimic a cat’s natural hunting instincts by incorporating feeding puzzles or lick mats. This approach could help reduce unwanted behaviors caused by boredom or anxiety.  

How Much Should You Feed a Tonkinese? 

Tonkinese kittens require multiple meals a day. Adult cats (1 year and older) can eat fewer meals—about two per day.  

Cat food varies in calorie content, and individual cats have different needs. The best way to ensure you’re feeding the right amount is to consult your vet. They’ll consider your cat’s age, activity level, and current and ideal weight to recommend a target daily caloric intake. 

Nutritional Tips for Tonkinese  

Healthy cats who eat a complete and balanced cat food shouldn’t need supplementation.  

However, your vet may determine that your cat could benefit from a supplement, especially as your Tonkinese cat ages or if they develop a health condition. This could include omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) for skin and coat health, probiotics for gut health, or joint supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin. 

Never give your cat a supplement without your veterinarian’s guidance.  

Behavior and Training Tips for Tonkinese Cats

Tonkinese Cat Personality and Temperament 

The Siamese cat is smart and curious, while Burmese are known for their playfulness and affection. By crossing the two, breeders aimed to combine the best qualities of both cats—and that they did. Tonkinese cats are social, intelligent, and deeply curious.  

Tonks love companionship and just want to be part of their family’s day. “No matter where I am in the house, they are usually on me or within easy petting reach,” Jordan says.  

Tonkinese cats are problem-solvers, too, she adds: “You can bet if you want to keep them out of something, they will find a way to get to it.”  

Burmese Cat Behavior 

“It is often said that Tonkinese are noisy cats, but I disagree with that,” Jordan says. “Unless it is dinner time, and then everyone has an opinion!”  

With so much variation in individual cats, predicting a kitten’s behavior can be challenging. Adopting an older Tonkinese can provide more insight into that particular cat’s behaviors, making it easier to determine if they’re the right fit for your household. 

No matter your cat’s personality, it’s important to offer a variety of enrichment. Horizontal and vertical scratching posts, cat trees, and toys that promote independent play will all help discourage unwanted behaviors, like scratching the furniture.  

Dr. Cocchiaro suggests feather wands and teasers for interactive play. They bring out your pet’s inner hunter while strengthening the bond between you and your cat.

Tonkinese Training 

Cats can be trained, and one of the best methods is clicker training with positive reinforcement. Find what motivates your cat—whether it’s a favorite treat, praise, or attention—and use it to reward positive behaviors.    

Fun Activities for Tonkinese Cats 

Tonkinese Grooming Guide

Looking for a low-shedding kitty? The silky soft Tonkinese may be an excellent choice if you keep up with a regular grooming routine. 

Skin Care  

Tonkinese cats generally don’t need special skin care. However, regularly check your cat's skin for redness, flaking, or flea dirt (small black dots that look like pepper flakes). Contact your vet if you notice changes in your pet’s skin. 

Coat Care  

Brush your cat’s coat once a week. This will reduce shedding, prevent tangles, and remove debris that may be in your cat’s fur.  

Eye Care  

A Tonkinese’s eye color is typically correlated to coat pattern: Mink Tonkinese have aqua eyes, point Tonkinese blue eyes, and solid/sepia Tonkinese cats have green to golden eyes.  

According to breed standards, the eyes should appear “deep, clear, and brilliant.” Discuss signs of common cat eye problems, such as redness or discharge, with your veterinarian.  

Ear Care 

Tonkinese cats aren’t particularly prone to ear infections, but it’s still important to watch for common signs of ear infections. Contact your vet if you notice any of the following: 

  • Foul odor from one or both ears 
  • Red or swollen ears 
  • Discharge from the ears 
  • Crusting or scabs around the ears 
  • Pawing at the ears 
  • Head shaking 

Considerations for Pet Parents

The Tonkinese cat breed is a cross of Siamese and Burmese cats, inheriting a delightful blend of their personalities. Typically, a Tonk is a fun-loving cat that’s both intelligent and affectionate. However, every cat is unique, and individual personalities can vary.   

With their silky fur, Tonkinese are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. However, like any other pet, a Tonk has plenty of other lifelong needs, including routine wellness visits, socialization, and a healthy diet.  

When purchased from a responsible breeder, Tonkinese are generally healthy—aside from some common feline conditions—and have an impressive average lifespan of 15–20 years.  

Tonkinese Cat FAQs

Siamese vs. Tonkinese cats: What’s the difference?

Tonkinese cats share a close genetic connection with Siamese cats, as they are bred from a Siamese and Burmese parent. However, unlike today’s traditional Siamese, which are slim with wedge-shaped heads, Tonkinese have a medium build with rounder, more balanced features.  

How much is a Tonkinese cat worth?

The price of a Tonkinese kitten typically ranges from $1,000–$1,600, depending on where you live and whether the kitten has already been spayed or neutered

Do Tonkinese cats like to cuddle?

Yes, Tonkinese cats are typically affectionate and may even cuddle. They form strong social bonds with their family members, often adapting to their daily routines. 

Are Tonkinese cats friendly?

Yes, Tonkinese are friendly cats who are known to get along well with children and dogs. 

How rare is a Tonkinese cat?

Tonkinese cats are considered quite rare because there are few Tonkinese breeders in the United States. If you're hoping to bring home a Tonkinese kitten, be prepared for a wait, Jordan says.  

Featured Image: Photo courtesy Takrai Tonkinese


Janelle Leeson

WRITTEN BY

Janelle Leeson

Freelance Writer


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