Tonkinese Cat Breed Guide: For NZ Cat Owners

With their sparkling aqua eyes, playful charm, and easy-going personality, Tonkinese cats are often described as the "best of both worlds"—a delightful blend of the Siamese and Burmese breeds. They’re known for their intelligence, affection, and social nature, making them ideal companions for New Zealand homes that value both interaction and companionship.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about caring for a Tonkinese cat in New Zealand, including their traits, diet, grooming needs, personality, training tips, and parasite prevention.

Breed Origins & History

The Tonkinese breed originated from intentional crossbreeding between Siamese and Burmese cats. While the combination has existed informally for decades, the breed was officially developed and recognised in North America during the 1960s. The goal was to create a cat with the best traits of both parents—playful and vocal like a Siamese, but laid-back and cuddly like a Burmese.

In New Zealand, the Tonkinese is still a relatively uncommon breed, but it's steadily growing in popularity among owners who want an affectionate, trainable, and sociable feline companion.

Tonkinese Appearance & Physical Traits

Coat: Short, soft, and silky

Colour Patterns: Mink, solid, or pointed in shades like champagne, blue, platinum, or natural

Eyes: Brilliant aqua, green, or gold (a signature trait of the breed)

Build: Medium-sized, muscular yet graceful

Weight: Typically 3.5–5.5kg

Tonkinese cats have a rounded appearance compared to their Siamese relatives—less angular, but still athletic and elegant.

Personality & Temperament

Tonkinese cats are bright, people-oriented, and full of energy. They're considered one of the most social cat breeds:

  • Extremely affectionate and enjoy being held
  • Vocal but less intense than the Siamese
  • Curious and quick to learn
  • Thrive on interaction and dislike solitude
  • Known for being clownish and entertaining

They often greet their humans at the door and will follow them from room to room. This is not a breed that likes being left alone.

Ideal Home Environment

A Tonkinese cat will thrive in an environment where they are included in daily life:

  • Great for homes with children or other pets
  • Appreciate cat trees, sunny spots, and interactive toys
  • Enjoy having another cat (especially another Tonkinese) for companionship
  • Ideal for households where someone is home during the day

They’re indoor cats by nature, though they enjoy window views or outdoor play in secure cat enclosures.

Feeding & Nutrition

Tonkinese cats are active and require balanced, protein-rich diets:

Kittens: Royal Canin Kitten or Pro Plan Kitten Chicken

Adults: Royal Canin Indoor Adult, Ziwi Peak Air-Dried, or Feline Natural Lamb & King Salmon

Seniors: Choose foods that support joint health and digestion

Schedule meals rather than free-feeding. Use treat-dispensing toys or puzzle feeders to combine nutrition with enrichment.

Avoid grain-heavy supermarket brands, as Siamese cats are prone to sensitive stomachs and may develop food allergies.

Grooming & Coat Care

Tonkinese cats are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming:

  • Weekly brushing to remove loose hairs and boost coat health
  • Monthly nail trims
  • Ear cleaning every couple of weeks
  • Daily dental care (brushing or dental treats)

Their short coat stays naturally sleek and doesn’t shed excessively.

Health Considerations

Tonkinese cats are generally healthy, but a few inherited issues can occur:

  • Periodontal disease: Common in cats with smaller jaws—regular dental care helps
  • Respiratory sensitivity: From Siamese lineage—watch for sneezing or congestion
  • Obesity: They're food-motivated and may overeat if bored
  • Amyloidosis: A rare condition to monitor in older cats

Schedule regular vet check-ups and use breeders who health-screen.

Flea & Worm Treatment

Regular parasite control is vital, even for indoor cats in New Zealand:

Fleas: - Use Bravecto Plus, Revolution Plus, or NexGard Combo monthly

Worms: - Every 3 months with Milbemax, Endogard, or Profender

Shop these treatments on PetSupply.co.nz, with auto-delivery available.

Training & Enrichment

Tonkinese cats are eager to please and highly trainable:

  • Learn commands quickly using clicker training
  • Respond well to interactive play and puzzle toys
  • Can be leash-trained for safe outdoor adventures
  • Enjoy hide-and-seek, climbing challenges, and fetch games

Training should be fun and consistent. Keep sessions short and reward-based.

Socialisation & Interaction

The Tonkinese is a true companion cat:

  • Craves company and dislikes isolation
  • Does best in busy households
  • May experience separation anxiety if left alone too long
  • Bonds closely with all family members, not just one person

They do well with respectful children and other sociable pets. Their affectionate, humorous nature makes them a joy in interactive homes.

Is a Tonkinese Cat Right for You?

✅ Great for families or owners who work from home
✅ Sociable, smart, and affectionate
✅ Easy to groom and train
❌ Not ideal for those away for long hours or wanting an aloof cat

Final Thoughts

If you want a cat that meets you at the door, chats with you throughout the day, and cuddles up in the evening—Tonkinese might be the perfect match. With a bright mind, affectionate heart, and silky coat, they’re a wonderful addition to interactive New Zealand homes.

From food to enrichment and flea care, PetSupply.co.nz has everything you need to support your Tonkinese cat’s vibrant life.