About Tonks

Colors And Genetics

Because Tonkinese have the ability to carry the color genes from either the Burmese or Siamese, or both, you end up with the possibility of 4 color patterns and 3 coat patterns, or a total of 12 permutations. The colors are similar to those of the Siamese while the names for these permutations are Burmese names, to avoid confusion with the Siamese.

If a Tonkinese carries both the Siamese color genes it is called a "Pointed". "Pointed" Tonkinese are more contrasty and flashy with lighter bodies, darker points and eyes at the blue end of the aqua spectrum.

If a Tonkinese carries one Siamese and one Burmese color gene it is called a "Mink", to a great extent based on the texture of its coat. Minks are subtler in coloration with the points 'flowing/blending' into the body colors so, obviously, they are less contrasty than the "Pointeds". The eyes are aqua.

If a Tonkinese carries both Burmese color genes it is called by its color name, or by its older nomenclature of "Solid", meaning solid or uniform in color. While the points are present they are almost the same color as the body. The eyes are yellow green or at the lightest end of the aqua spectrum.

Names

The basic colors are as follows and are based on the colors of the points.

  • Dark brown/sable is called "Natural" as in Natural Mink, Natural Point
  • Reddish, (Rufus) brown is called "Champagne" as in Champagne Mink, Champagne Point
  • Grayish blue is called "Blue" as in Blue Mink, Blue Point
  • Gray to light gray is called "Platinum" as in Platinum Mink, Platinum Point

Miscellaneous

Generally speaking, Tonkinese, are friendly, curious and intelligent. They love high places, love to sit on shoulders, and sleep under the covers if you let them. They are low maintenance due to their short hair, need cat trees and scratching posts, and will eat most anything without getting overweight. Our cats weigh from 6 pounds for the girls to 12 plus pounds for the boys.



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