Tonkinese
If ever a cat breed could be called a “happy medium,” that breed would certainly be the Tonkinese. The ideal Tonkinese is intermediate in type, neither cobby nor svelte.
Last updated: October 2026 · 6 sources · see sources
| Weight | 7–9 lb [1] |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | 15–20+ years [1] |
| Coat | Shorthair [2] |
| Look | The ideal Tonkinese is intermediate in type, neither cobby nor svelte. [2] |
| Personality | If ever a cat breed could be called a “happy medium,” that breed would certainly be the Tonkinese. [2] |
| Recognized by | CFA (Cat Fanciers' Association) [2] |
Activity and exercise
If ever a cat breed could be called a “happy medium,” that breed would certainly be the Tonkinese. Developed from both Siamese and Burmese in order to create the perfect midpoint between those two breeds, the Tonkinese has been established as a unique breed on its own for over 30 years now. [2]
Grooming
These cats tend to be seasonal rather than year-round shedders. Nevertheless, grooming with a rubber brush two or three times a month will keep shedding to a minimum, condition the silky coat, and provide a bonding experience for you and your cat. [2]
Health issues to budget for
PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide lists these conditions to know about: Dental Disease, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), Obesity, Parasites. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Routine vet visit, any cat (owner bills) | $190–$525 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a cat, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,149 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, cat (US 2025) | $435/year | [5] |
| Cat kidney disease (CKD) care | $600–$3,500 total | [6] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for cats in general or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- If ever a cat breed could be called a “happy medium,” that breed would certainly be the Tonkinese. [2]
- Most Tonkinese are descended from one cat, Wong Mau, also the foundation of the Burmese breed. [2]
- Intelligent, gregarious and generally quite outgoing, Tonkinese operate on the principle that we were put on this earth to love them and cater to them. [2]
Good fit for
- Our sources don't publish fit ratings for this breed. Meet the breed, talk to breeders or rescues, and read the profile above.
Common questions
How long do Tonkinese cats live?
PetMD's vet-reviewed guide gives a lifespan of 15–20 years.
How big does a Tonkinese get?
PetMD lists a weight of 7–9 lb.
More cat breeds
Sources (6) — tap to show
- PetMD – Tonkinese cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- CFA – Tonkinese breed profile
- VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- VetReceipt – Cat Kidney Disease (CKD) Treatment Cost (owner bills, 2026)