A chic and sleek but strongly muscled cat with plenty of substance, this breed is perfect for people who want a lap cat.
This hybrid cat, created by crossing the Burmese with the Siamese, blends the coloring of both breeds but has a more compact body than many cats of Asian ancestry. It has achieved considerable popularity both in the US, where it was created, and in the UK.
The Tonkinese has an independent spirit and would rule the household if it could, but it also has a loving nature and is gratifyingly eager to climb on laps. Playing games, socializing with other pets, and welcoming strangers to the home are all things that the Tonkinese loves to do.
This breed was developed under the name Golden Siamese.
Origin: US, 1950s
Breed registries: CFA, GCCF, TICA
Weight range: 6–12lb (2.5–5.5kg)
Grooming: Weekly
Colors and patterns: All colors except cinnamon and fawn, in patterns including pointed, tabby, and tortie.