Updated  October, 2008

                                              TONKINESE

That is  breed famous for their fantastic natures and their  "silky mink" coats. for most Tonk owners, the real defining trait of the Tonkinese breed is not in the standard; or looks, it’s the Tonkinese personality.  Once you own one, you will be hooked.  We are.

Tonkinese  began many years ago as a cross between a Siamese and Burmese cat, which today are called Hybrid. 

Hybrid's are not Tonkinese.  (so don't be fooled)

Yes ask the breeder do they have an experimental program with their registered governing body.  If they say NO, we suggest you go elsewhere to purchase your Tonkinese, as these people are only in it for the $$$$ these crosses, will show either the Siamese or the Burmese type and personality.

                            Mink & Solid Tonkinese

Tonkinese should not be pointy like that of its Siamese cousin, nor should it be chunky like the Burmese. 

Tonkinese are a moderate cat, and should be pleasing to the eye.

                         Today the Tonkinese is a breed on its own, try to purchase your beautiful Tonkinese from someone who has a experimental breeding program with a recognized Cat Association and not someone who is breeding the Hybrid (Siamese X Burmese crosses) to feather their purse, that way you can be guaranteed you have the true Tonkinese nature and not just the color you are seeking.

This amazing breed can produce all 3 coat patterns within the same litter, and all play a very important part in a Tonkinese breeding program.

Solid Coat Pattern -  Green eyes

Mink Coat Pattern  -  Aqua eyes

Pointed Coat pattern  -  Blue eyes

It's no cause for concern if your kitten doesn't have the perfect eye color - Tonkinese may not develop their full coat and eye color until they are 18 months old.

Tonkinese do not thrive as a single cat, though they will love you with every bone in their body, they still need one of their own kind to snuggle up with, though it is wise to pair your Tonkinese at a young age rather then try to introduce a new kitten to a mature adult Tonkinese and find they just don't like each other, and may never get along.

Do not consider bringing home a Tonkinese unless you have time in your life for games, like hide-and-seek, fetch and floor wrestle. Tonks know the meaning of fun, and do just about anything to get it.

Mink Tonkinese

They are very much like dogs, they follow you around the house just to see what you are doing.  Never try to separate your Tonk from yourself unless you are playing a game of peep-a-boo.   

They are great little helpers, which could be why this web site has taken so long to update. 

LOOK who's in charge of the computer!

So you see there is never a dull moment with a Tonkinese.  They are always there to render assistance whether needed or not. 

More Tonkinese

Showing your new kitten can be so much fun, the whole family can be involved, you meet some wonderful people, and some not so wonderful, but you get this in any competition. 

The FCCV is a great registering cat body, and has been around for centuries, their members are so willing to share their ideas with you, so please speak to us, we are keen to see newbie's join in the fun

The foundation cat of the Burmese breed, Wong Mau, was said to have been a Tonkinese.

Burmese are a medium sized cat carry surprising weight for their "size" and have often been described as “bricks wrapped in silk.” A Burmese will abhor an empty lap, will follow you from room to room, whilst having a in depth conversation with you, and of course will want to sleep in bed with you, preferably under the covers cuddled on or right next to you, so please be fully aware, this is the norm for anyone who wishes to be owned by one of these adorable treasures. Their coats are very short, satin-like in texture, much the same as their cousin the Tonkinese.  The Burmese comes in many colors.

These guys don't know the meaning of the word "Stop" and why should they, that's how they have been here for centuries. They love open spaces, where they can thunder up and down, and exhaust their energy.  Then once exhausted, its common to find them laying flat on their backs sound a sleep like butter wouldn't melt in their mouths, but they hear every word you say, they are not always obedient, and do what you say, especially if a bird outside has capture their eye, forget it, but sit back and be amused with the chirpy chatter sounds your Burmese makes, that is why we suggest these cats never be permitted to roam your neighborhood, and they like all cats enjoy a far game with the native wild life.  A sunny outdoor enclosure attached to the home, with kitty toys, fresh air, and a scratching poll is a safe haven to the active Burmese.

Because Burmese are action packed little guys, and need lots of stimulation when they are kittens,  it is advisable to have them in pairs, so they do not become bored.

More Burmese

                                 Burmilla and Burmlla Semi longhair (Tiffanie)

The breed was developed in England in the 80s between an accidental mating between the Chinchilla and a Burmese.

 Burmilla have a special charm about them. You won't find your Burmilla crying for attention or demanding to be cuddled – but you may find that you have a constant shadow, who likes to be involved in everything that you do. They caress you with their eyes, and have a sweet chirpy meow.

The outside world does not interest them in the slightest unlike its cousin the Burmese.  Be warned you will have to fight for bed space with a Burmilla around, they will sleep all day and keep your bed warm given half the chance.

There are two coat variations to the Burmilla, all which have a silver undercoat.

The shaded variety has either (black, brown, grey, chocolate or lilac)  coloring  like a mantel over the ends of the silver fur, which gives the cat a smoky look.  

The tipped variety has  (black, brown, grey, chocolate or lilac) color on the very tips of their fur, which gives a look of a almost white cat  with faint tabby markings.

Burmilla kittens can be born very dark and may lighten with age, as some born almost white, can darken as they grow older.

A Show quality Burmilla must exhibit green eye color which can take up to 18 months to develop. PET quality Burmilla's can vary in eye color, depending on the breeding lines etc,

Because the breed was developed using Burmese lines the result is an athletic, intelligent cat; very inquisitive and interested in what its people are doing – yet the Chinchilla Persian lines give it a more substantial build and quieter nature.  Burmilla's and Burmilla Semi Longhair (Tiffanie) loves a lap the minute you sit down, especially in the colder months, and they are great little foot warmers.

All Burmilla's must exhibit that lovable laid back personality regardless of its color, for its no good having a pretty show quality cat that cannot be loved and cuddled.

They are not fussy cats but do eat enjoy good food. They are great on their own and are gentle around your home, which make them ideal for those that live in small apartments.

Minga can guarantee you outstanding laid back personalities, that will not shy away and hide.  Remember these guys should be more like their Burmese cousins in nature and type.

Please call us when considering your Burmilla or Burmilla Semi Longhair the (Tiffanie), purchase, advice is free and non bios.

   All our Burmilla's and Burmilla Semi Longhair (Tiffanie) are (DNA) PKD tested.

The semi-longhair coat requires little grooming effort, while giving the cat a soft yet elegant style. The large expressive green eyes, with the eyeliner reflecting their coat colour are irresistible.

We find that the shorthair Burmillas shed more fur  than the semi-longhair adults.

Grand Champion Minga Pussy Cat Doll

More Burmilla & Tiffanie 

Showing your new kitten can be so much fun, the whole family can be involved, you meet some wonderful people, and yes some not so wonderful, but you get this in any competition. 

The FCCV is a great registering cat body, and has been around for centuries, their members are so willing to share their ideas with you, so please speak to us, we are keen to see newbie's join in the fun

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If you are not certain about your breed of cat, check the link below

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