Characteristics
Shorthaired
up to 35 cm
2.5-5.5 kg
9-12 years old
Brief information
Character
The unofficial story of the Tonksian breed began a very long time. Mentions of graceful cats are found in the books of Thailand, which at that time was Siam, already in the XIV century. The same applies to Europe: in the UK of the 19th century, the Tonksian cats were called “chocolate Siamese”. Then the popularity of this breed came to naught, and so it was until the XX century.
The first famous Tonkin was a cat named Wong Mau, he was brought to the United States in 1930 from Myanmar. However, the official recognition of the breed occurred a little later. The breeder Margaret Konrai from Canada crossed her Burman cat with a Siamese cat. The resulting kittens fascinated the hostess: they had a beautiful light brown wool, the eyes of the color of aquamarine and a mischievous, playful character. They began to be crossed with the descendants of Wong Mau, and in 1971 the breed was finally recognized as the Canadian Felinological Association. It was called “Tonkines” or “Tonki cat” by the area of Tonkin in Vietnam, which, however, has nothing to do with the breed, but emphasizes its exotic and Asian origin.
The cats of the Tonki breed, like their Siamese parents, are very talkative, although to a lesser extent. They make a lot of sounds: from the purring comparable to the sounds of the tractor to a lingering meow. Therefore, if you want a calm and quiet pet, tonkinese is unlikely to suit you.
Tonki cat is gentle and intelligent. She quickly tied to the owner, but at the same time remains very independent. She has her own opinion on everything, so to take over the representatives of this breed, alas, will not work. The cat will evaluate trust and partnerships.
Tonkineses are very curious and friendly. They will be happy to get acquainted with the guests and are unlikely to run into the room when meeting with a stranger. In addition, cats of this breed have a high level of intelligence. In the USA and Canada, tonkines are used as cats-therapists. With children, these cats quickly find a common language in the game, tenderness and affection. They feel a person well and will never harm him.
As you expect, with other animals, the Tonki cats get along well well. Representatives of the breed will do everything possible to avoid conflict.
Care
Short wool of the Tonki cats is easy to care. During the molting period, it is necessary to comb the pet with a special brush to remove the dropped hairs. From childhood, a cat should be accustomed to weekly hygienic procedures: brushing tooths and eyes.
Conditions of detention
In the warm season of the year, the Tonki cats can be walked on a leash and a slope, but the owner should be very careful on a walk: too independent cats can fall into unpleasant situations. For example, it is noted that the representatives of this breed are quite bold and are not at all afraid of cars.
Tonkineses are not prone to diseases, therefore, to maintain the health and activity of a cat, it is enough to choose highquality food. In addition, a veterinarian should be visited twice a year.
