Birman
VS
Tonkinese
Birman vs Tonkinese
Compare Birman and Tonkinese side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Birman
Tonkinese
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
25 – 30 cm
25 – 30 cm
Weight
2 – 5 kg
2 – 6 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 16 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
5/5
5/5
Energy level
4/5
5/5
Intelligence
4/5
5/5
Trainability
3/5
5/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
2/5
1/5
Shedding
3/5
2/5
Barking level
0/5
0/5
Aggressiveness
0/5
0/5
Sponsored Ad
Characteristics
Birman
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Low grooming
Tonkinese
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Low grooming
Easy to train
Summary
About Birman
The Birman is a medium‑large, semi‑longhaired pointed cat with deep blue eyes and distinctive white “gloves.” Its silky coat is easy to maintain. Affectionate and people‑focused, it is moderately active, gentle with children and pets, and thrives on regular company and interaction.
About Tonkinese
Tonkinese are medium-sized, muscular cats combining Siamese elegance with Burmese solidity. They have silky low-maintenance coats in mink, pointed or solid patterns and striking aqua to greenish blue eyes. Affectionate, playful, social and vocal, they thrive on attention and interaction.
Similar breeds
View more
