At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Siamese | Tonkinese |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Thailand | Canada |
| Weight | 8 to 15 lbs | 6 to 12 lbs |
| Life span | 12 to 15 years | 14 to 16 years |
| Lap cat | Yes | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | No |
| Affection | ||
| Energy | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Vocal | ||
| Needs company | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Health issues |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Background
Where they come from.
The Siamese
An ancient breed from Siam (Thailand), described in the Tamra Maew poems. The King of Siam gave the first Siamese to Britain in the 1880s.
It is one of the most vocal breeds, with a loud, distinctive call.
Health to watch
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Amyloidosis
- Asthma
- Dental disease
The Tonkinese
A cross between the Siamese and Burmese developed in Canada and the US in the 1960s. Its blue-green eyes are often called aqua.
It is very social and dislikes being alone.
Health to watch
- Gingivitis
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Shedding
The Tonkinese sheds more than the Siamese.
Which to choose
Siamese or Tonkinese?
Choose the Tonkinese if…
They’re very alike; choose on looks, size and the individual pet.
Full Tonkinese guideQuestions.
Is the Siamese or the Tonkinese bigger, and which lives longer?
The Tonkinese tends to live about 2 years longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the Siamese or the Tonkinese?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Siamese or the Tonkinese?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Siamese sheds less than the Tonkinese. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
What health problems do the Siamese and Tonkinese have?
The Siamese is prone to progressive retinal atrophy, amyloidosis, asthma. The Tonkinese is prone to gingivitis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Ask any breeder for the parents' health test results.
