Tonkinese are affectionate, intelligent, gregarious cats, with colourful, lively
personalities which make them ideal companions. Rather than having homogeneous
traits, each individual Tonkinese will demonstrate distinctive qualities of
inquisitiveness, inventiveness and playfulness. Such endearing characteristics ensure
their place as a true family member. Besides relating well to humans, they also
develop strong bonds with their own kind and get along fine with other cats and dogs.
However, a single-cat household can be a lonely place for any cat - and especially so
for a Tonkinese. To ensure lasting happiness and well-being, it is therefore
advisable for owners to provide other feline company.
Due to the high risk of a traumatic episode arising (notably, a road accident,
poisoning or abduction), and to prevent heartache and/or astronomical vet bills, most
owners prefer to keep their Tonkinese cats permanently indoors. However, periodic
visits to the garden under supervision will, of course, prove highly popular and
stimulating. But be warned! It is quite common for owners to be constantly harassed
by their Tonkinese, often with meaningful stares and forlorn cries, and what started
as a treat soon develops into a full-blown 'right'.
Cat-proofing your garden is a necessary precondition to simulate a 'born-free'
experience. However, this can be a rather expensive project, even proving a futile
task in the face of a determined, adventurous climber.
Tonkinese kittens are natural-born acrobats, and can often be found riding around on
your shoulders. Such acrobatics are best demonstrated through playful human interaction
with toys and games. For instance, a plastic, flexible rod with, say, a toy snake or
mouse attached to one end of a piece of cord is ideal for 'showing off' these
acrobatic skills.
Finally, expect to share your bed with your Tonks. They do not like being locked
out of anywhere, especially the bedroom. Unless you don't value your expensive
carpet, it is best to resign yourself to their company while in slumber. Apart from
the soft mattress itself (and, of course, radiators), tops of wardrobes are
particularly attractive places for Tonkinese to gather and sleep.
