The Pet Atlas

Breed Cats Classic

Tonkinese

Mid-size, muscular build between Siamese and Burmese types

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
High
Vocality
Medium
Health sensitivity
Medium
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Low
Temperature sensitivity
Low

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat type
Single
Coat length
Short

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want a middle-ground body type with a more interactive, engaged reputation

Not ideal

  • Prefer a low-vocal breed type

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Often high-interaction and lively—more “with you” than “near you,” and frequently vocal/expressive.

Handling & social style

Usually happiest with frequent engagement and play; fits best in homes that want an involved companion rather than a hands-off roommate.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Easy coat maintenance, but commonly chosen for a more engaged, interactive household presence—care tends to go best when that expectation is met.

Environment & space

Benefits from vertical routes and interactive zones because many are more participatory in the home than “background cats.”

Daily routine

Daily play plus small mental variety (toy rotation, simple puzzles) helps prevent boredom behaviors; grooming stays minimal.

Health sensitivities

Line-dependent—ask what the breeder tracks and screens for in their families, and how they decide which cats to breed based on outcomes.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

North America

Background

Developed from Siamese- and Burmese-type lines to create a consistent middle-ground breed. The goal is a balanced blend: moderate body type with a signature “in-between” look rather than an extreme silhouette.