History & Origin: In the United States, the Tonkinese and the Burmese can both be traced back to Wong Mau, a small brown cat imported to California from Rangoon (Burma) by Dr. Joseph Thompson in 1930.
Character & Temperament: The Tonkinese exhibits characteristics from both the Burmese and the Siamese-most often the Burmese. Although it can be willful and mischievous, it is good-natured, friendly and gets along well with other household pets. This breed is very good with children and has a quiet, pleasant voice that is seldom heard. Clever, active, and intelligent, the Tonkinese needs a lot of companionship and does not like to be left alone for long periods.
Colors: Three distinct coat patterns, mink, full-body, and pointed-that come in four different colors: deep brown, blue, champagne and platinum.
Coat Type: Medium-short in length and lying close to the body.
Color: This breed's short coat can is easy to maintain with weekly brushing. Claws should be trimmed and ears cleaned only when necessary.
Health Considerations: Prone to upper respiratory diseases as kittens; sensitive to anesthesia and vaccines.
Trivia: Although relatively new to the United States, the Tonkinese was depicted in "The Cat-Book Poems" of Siam during the Ayudha period (1258-1767).
