Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Overview
The Tonkinese breed originated in Canada and the United States in the mid-20th century as a result of crossing Siamese and Burmese cats. Breeders aimed to combine the elegant body type and expressive eyes of the Siamese with the soft temperament and warm coloring of the Burmese. The first officially registered cats were distinguished by their unique mink coat tone and striking aquamarine eyes. The breed quickly gained recognition for its harmonious appearance, friendly disposition, and natural balance. Today, the Tonkinese is known and loved worldwide as an intelligent and charming companion breed.
General Appearance
The Tonkinese is a medium-sized cat with an elegant, muscular, and well-balanced body. Its proportions are harmonious, the body lines are smooth and flowing without angularity. The head forms a modified wedge with gently rounded contours. The muzzle is expressive and refined, the ears are medium in size, broad at the base and slightly rounded at the tips. The eyes are large, almond-shaped, and distinctly aquamarine, giving the breed its signature look. The coat is short, silky, and glossy, lying close to the body with gradual tonal shading. The overall impression is one of harmony, intelligence, and grace.
Important Proportions
The Tonkinese must be proportionate and balanced in all aspects. The body is medium in length, slightly longer than tall, with a rounded chest and straight back. The head fits smoothly into a gently modified wedge; the neck is medium in length and elegant. The legs are proportionate, with the hind legs slightly longer than the front, creating a graceful rise from shoulders to rump. The tail is medium-length, tapering evenly toward the tip. Every element should contribute to a sense of balance, refinement, and moderate strength.
Behavior and Temperament
The Tonkinese is lively, affectionate, and well-balanced. Intelligent and sociable, it forms strong bonds with humans and enjoys companionship. Playful and active but never intrusive, it gets along well with children and other pets. Highly curious and quick-witted, it easily learns routines and communicates through expressive gestures and voice. Tonkinese cats are devoted yet dignified, combining gentleness with confidence. Aggression or timidity is uncharacteristic of the breed.
Head
The head is medium in size, forming a softly contoured wedge with rounded lines. The forehead is gently convex, the nose bridge smooth and even. Cheeks are moderately full, the muzzle rounded and expressive. The chin is firm and well-developed, forming a balanced profile. The nose is of medium length, straight, and slightly tapered. The overall head type combines refinement and softness without exaggeration.
Facial Features
The facial structure is smooth and harmonious, with softly curved lines and well-defined whisker pads. The muzzle is short and rounded, lips fine and tight. The nose leather and lip margins match the coat color. The overall expression is intelligent, alert, and friendly, with no harshness or angularity.
Eyes
The eyes are large, almond-shaped, and slightly slanted toward the nose, creating a gentle Oriental expression. Their color is a clear aquamarine, ranging from light blue-green to deep sea tones, luminous and vibrant. The eyes are the hallmark of the breed, reflecting its Siamese and Burmese ancestry. The gaze should be bright, calm, and inquisitive. Round or excessively narrow eyes are considered faults.
Ears
The ears are medium-sized, broad at the base, and set wide apart, continuing the wedge shape of the head. The tips are slightly rounded, tilting slightly forward to enhance alert expression. Ears should not appear oversized, sharp, or low-set, as this disturbs the harmony of the head.
Neck
The neck is medium in length, elegant, and well-muscled, blending smoothly into the shoulders. It supports the head gracefully and enhances the breed’s refined appearance. The line from head to body should remain fluid, emphasizing balance and poise.
Body
The body is medium in size, firm, and muscular with gently rounded contours. The chest is broad, the back level, and the shoulders and hips of equal width. The abdomen is taut but not hollowed. The Tonkinese combines strength, flexibility, and elegance in equal measure, producing a supple and athletic impression.
Tail
The tail is of medium length, in proportion to the body, tapering evenly toward the tip. It is flexible and carried gracefully, complementing the body’s balance. Kinks or deformities are not permitted.
Forelegs
The forelegs are straight and of medium length, with fine yet strong bone. Shoulders blend smoothly into the body; paws are oval, compact, with firm pads. The stance is balanced and steady, reflecting the breed’s elegance and agility.
Hind Legs
The hind legs are slightly longer than the forelegs, giving a subtle rise from shoulders to rump. Well-muscled thighs and strong hocks provide power for smooth, elastic movement. Paws are oval and compact with neat toes.
Gait and Movement
The Tonkinese moves with light, smooth, and effortless grace. The stride is fluid, coordinated, and balanced. The back remains level during motion, the tail following naturally in rhythm. Movements are agile and harmonious, demonstrating the breed’s suppleness and control.
Coat
The coat is short, fine, and silky, lying close to the body with a glossy sheen. There is minimal undercoat, creating a sleek, cool texture. The shading transitions smoothly from lighter body tones to darker points on the face, ears, legs, and tail. The coat reflects light beautifully, emphasizing the cat’s sculpted form.
Approved Colors
Accepted color patterns include mink, pointed, and sepia varieties. Each appears in four main shades: natural (brown), champagne (beige), blue (grayish-blue), and platinum (pale silver). All exhibit gradual tonal shading from light body to darker extremities. Aquamarine eyes are mandatory for all colors and are a defining feature of the breed.
Size
Medium in size, with males weighing 4–6 kg and females 3–4.5 kg. The build is muscular yet refined, maintaining balance and grace. The Tonkinese should appear elegant, neither heavy nor delicate.
Faults
Minor faults include an overly long or short body, coarse or narrow head, weak chin, large or sharp ears, round or dull eyes, lack of coat luster, excessive undercoat, or harsh texture. Imbalanced proportions or timid/aggressive behavior reduce show quality but do not necessarily disqualify.
Disqualifications
Serious faults include tail deformities, skull or limb malformations, crossed eyes, incorrect bite, absence of aquamarine eye color, or heterochromia. Also disqualifying are white spots on unapproved colors, excessive coat length, woolly texture, or abnormal behavior. Any congenital defects or structural abnormalities exclude the cat from breeding and competition.
Important Notes
Only healthy Tonkinese cats that fully meet the breed standard and show no hereditary defects are permitted for breeding. Eye color purity, coat texture, and body harmony are essential. Crossbreeding with non-Siamese or non-Burmese types is forbidden to preserve the breed’s integrity. Responsible breeding ensures both genetic soundness and temperament stability in accordance with ICCF standards.
Conclusion
The Tonkinese is a graceful, intelligent, and affectionate breed that unites the elegance of the Siamese with the warmth of the Burmese. Its aquamarine eyes, silky short coat, and balanced body proportions define its unique charm. With a gentle, loyal temperament and easy adaptability, the Tonkinese is an ideal companion. Under proper care and ethical breeding, it maintains its health, harmony, and beauty, standing as a true symbol of refinement within the ICCF system.
