The Tonkinese breed originated in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.  They were accepted by the Canadian Cat Association (CCA) in the mid 1960's.  Other registries soon followed.

The breed originated as a cross between the Siamese and the Burmese, taking the best from both breeds.  Most catteries have cats that are of many generations of Tonk to Tonk breeding.  Tonks should be a medium sized, muscular cat weighing in heavier than it looks.

Tonkinese come in four colours: natural, champagne, platinum and lilac.  There are three coat patterns:  pointed which is most like the Siamese in colour only, solid which is most like the Burmese in colour only, and the mink which is midway between both.  The mink has the stunning aqua eyes.

The Tonkinese are playful, inquisitive, and affectionate companions.  A graceful leap onto your shoulder will put them in a position to survey and supervise all.  Their playful acrobatics can continue on into middle age.  Because of the Tonkinese's wonderful social personality and for their protection, Tonks should be indoor only cats.

Tonkinese love companionship, either two-legged or four-legged.  They adapt well to most situations and love nothing better than to play or snuggle up to their chosen companion, be it human, feline, or canine.