LaPerm vs Tonkinese

Which cat breed is right for you?

LaPerm

Size
5–10 lbs
Lifespan
10–15 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Affectionate Curious Gentle Playful

Tonkinese

Size
6–12 lbs
Lifespan
10–16 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Social Playful Intelligent Affectionate

About the LaPerm

The LaPerm originated in 1982 on a cherry farm in The Dalles, Oregon, when a bald kitten named Curly grew a unique soft, curly coat caused by a dominant gene mutation. This small-to-medium breed weighs 5–10 pounds and comes in both longhair and shorthair varieties, with the longhair featuring loose, bouncy ringlets and the shorthair sporting a wavy, textured coat. Their curls come in all recognized colors and patterns, and the degree of curl can vary from loose waves to tight corkscrews.

Temperament & Personality

LaPerms are affectionate, gentle cats that love to be close to their people — often reaching out with a paw to touch your face or climbing onto your shoulders. They are moderately active, enjoy interactive play, and get along well with children, other cats, and dogs. Their sweet, curious nature and unique appearance make them endearing companions that quickly win over everyone they meet.

Pros

  • Unique curly coat is hypoallergenic-friendly — sheds less and traps dander
  • Gentle, affectionate personality — loves shoulder rides and lap time
  • Both coat varieties are low-maintenance despite their curly appearance
  • Adaptable and easygoing — transitions well to new homes and environments

Cons

  • Kittens may go through an "ugly duckling" phase — born bald and growing coat gradually
  • Curly coat can collect debris and may need occasional bathing
  • Relatively uncommon breed — limited availability through rescues and shelters
  • May be prone to ear wax buildup — ears need regular checking and cleaning

Fall in love with the LaPerm's irresistible curls — explore adoptable cats on Puplister.

About the Tonkinese

The Tonkinese is a deliberate cross between the Siamese and the Burmese, first developed in the 1960s to blend the best of both breeds into one medium-sized, beautifully balanced cat. Weighing 6–12 pounds, the Tonkinese has a muscular, surprisingly heavy body for its size, a gently rounded wedge head, and stunning aqua-colored eyes — a hallmark of the breed's "mink" coat pattern. They also come in pointed (Siamese-style) and solid/sepia (Burmese-style) patterns in natural, champagne, blue, and platinum.

Temperament & Personality

Tonkinese cats are the social butterflies of the cat world — outgoing, playful, and utterly devoted to their humans. They are less vocal than the Siamese but more active than the Burmese, striking a perfect balance. Known for their clown-like antics and love of games, they thrive in busy households with children, dogs, and other cats.

Pros

  • Unique aqua eyes in the mink pattern — unlike any other breed
  • Perfect temperament balance — social and playful without being overly demanding
  • Gets along brilliantly with children, dogs, and other cats
  • Short, silky coat needs virtually no grooming

Cons

  • Hates being alone — strongly recommended to have a companion pet
  • Prone to inflammatory bowel disease and some dental issues
  • Extremely trusting — has zero survival instincts outdoors
  • High energy means they need daily interactive play to prevent boredom

Looking for the perfect blend of Siamese and Burmese charm? Find Tonkinese cats available for adoption on Puplister and meet your aqua-eyed soulmate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a LaPerm and a Tonkinese?
The LaPerm is 5–10 lbs sized while the Tonkinese is 6–12 lbs sized. They differ in size (5–10 lbs vs 6–12 lbs), lifespan (10–15 years vs 10–16 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, LaPerm or Tonkinese?
LaPerm is generally good with kids. Tonkinese is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, LaPerm or Tonkinese?
The LaPerm has a lifespan of 10–15 years while the Tonkinese has a lifespan of 10–16 years.

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