As may not be obvious, the Tonkinese is named for the Gulf of Tonkin, a body of water east of Vietnam and near Burma (Myanmar) and Siam (Thailand). It is now generally understood that cats recognizable as Burmese, Siamese, and Tonkinese all existed in Southeast Asia in the 19th century. Ironically, Wong Mau, that cat from which the modern Burmese was developed, is now considered to have been a Tonkinese! More history of the breed can be found on the Tonkinese Breed Association Web site.

Several books on Tonkinese are available, and most cat books that describe common breeds have sections on Tonks, with useful descriptions and engaging pictures.

Of course, most people with an interest in Tonkinese either have or are considering Tonks as pets. We have taken far too long to say that they make wonderful companions! They are often described as having the best characteristics of the Burmese and Siamese. They are intelligent, affectionate, and vocal, though not so insistent as the Siamese. They love laps and shoulders. Although caring for Tonks is relatively easy, they need human companionship and will appreciate the company of other animals as well. (See the CFA Breed Profile for more information.)