Gaining Recognition

The breed was first recognised in Canada in 1965. And in 1972, the now defunct Independent Cat Federation (ICF) of the USA also granted the breed recognition. It was not until 1991, however, that the UK's Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) granted Preliminary recognition2 and allocated the breed number 74. At the time of writing, the breed has progressed to Provisional status, one level below Champion. The penultimate status, the cat needs to win three Championship Certificates (CCs) to become a Champion. The cat then qualifies to enter Grand Championship classes.

Globally, Tonkinese cats have come a long way in such a short time, and, besides Canada and the USA, the breed is now recognised in South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and parts of Europe. The UK's Tonkinese Breed Club, founded in April 1991, has the distinction of being the only organisation in the world to have held shows specifically for the breed. The Tonkinese cat continues to flourish, and its popularity and success on the show bench ensure its longevity.