Everything I have read about Tonkinese cats says that if you are "going to be gone for long periods of time" you should get a second cat for them to play with, or they will get "destructive." My question is - what exactly constitutes long periods of time? A normal workday? 2 cats is not an option that I can handle right now. Although I'm 23, I live with my mother who in all other ways is amazing. She, however, is a toughy when it comes to animals. I FINALLY convinced her to let me have a cat, and I am planning to get a Tonkinese. BUT she is terrified that her furniture is going to be ruined. What to do?? I was going to get the kitty in June, so I will have lots of time this summer to spend with her (I am a teacher.) But when school starts, is she going to destroy the house while I'm way 7.5 hours?