The Turkish Van is an ancient and distinctive breed, celebrated not only for its striking, semi-long coat but also for its remarkable affinity for water. Known as the swimming cat, the Turkish Van is a playful, energetic, and affectionate companion. Continue reading to discover the multitude of admirable traits that make the Turkish Van a beloved pet.
Breed Overview
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Turkish Van |
| Scientific Name | Felis catus |
| Characteristic | Playful, Loyal, Water-loving |
| Life Span | Around 12-17 years |
| Build | Sturdy, Muscular |
| Average Weight | 9-20 pounds |
| Average Height | 10-14 inches at the shoulder |
| Coat Length | Semi-long |
| Coat Colors | Red and white, Cream and white |
| Coat Pattern | Piebald, with colored head and tail |
| Eye colors | Blue, Amber, or Odd-eyed |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Country of Origin | Turkey |
Physical Description
Turkish Vans have a powerful, sturdy build, with males generally weighing between 11-20 pounds and females slightly lighter at 9-13 pounds. Their overall bearing is somewhat large when fully mature, with an average height of 10-14 inches at the shoulder.
This breed’s semi-long coat is one of its finest features. It’s a chalky white with distinct color patches which are primarily found on the head and the tail. The texture is soft to touch, lacking an undercoat, which makes it resistant to matting. Their ears are of moderate size, set high but not too close, often with the preferred ‘thumbprint’ marking of color at the back.
The eyes of a Turkish Van can be blue, amber, or even odd-eyed—that is, one eye of each color—and convey an alert, intelligent expression.
Males generally have a larger, broader head and a more pronounced ruff around the neck compared to females, who may have a slightly more lithe appearance.
Behavior and Temperament of the Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is an active, energetic cat. They are playful well into their adult years and are known for their high level of intelligence, which makes them easily trainable. Vans form strong bonds with their families and can be quite affectionate, often greeted with the nickname “Vancats”.
Their fascination with water is unique; many Turkish Vans will play in water, and some even swim. This breed exhibits kitten-like behavior throughout life, with a keen interest in high vantage points and interactive games. They can be independent but love social interaction, although they may choose only one or two humans to bond closely with.
History and Origin
Hailing from the Lake Van area in Eastern Turkey, the breed has been around for centuries. It was first introduced to Europe by Laura Lushington and Sonia Halliday, who were gifted some cats while traveling in Turkey in the 1950s, and started breeding them in England.
They are a natural breed, not a human-made hybrid, and are considered national treasures in their homeland with legends saying that they left the ark during Noah’s flood and swam ashore at Mount Ararat.
The breed was not formally recognized until the mid-20th century and remains relatively rare, outside of Turkey, even today.
Turkish Van Cat Care
Turkish Vans require moderate care. Their lack of undercoat means they need less grooming than other long-haired breeds, but weekly brushing is recommended to keep their coat in optimal condition.
These are active cats that require stimulation; high perches, scratching posts, and interactive toys are essentials in a Van-compatible household. Given their size, they’ll appreciate larger spaces, and their propensity for water play means waterproofing some areas wouldn’t be amiss. They are ideal for both indoor and outdoor living environments, provided they are safe and secure.
Common Health Problems
Like all breeds, Turkish Vans are susceptible to certain health issues, though not all cats will experience these problems. Common concerns include:
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A heart disease that is seen in this breed as well, where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is less common in cats than in dogs but can occur in Turkish Vans, leading to joint issues and arthritis over time.
- Hereditary Ear Mites: While not a genetic condition, ear mites can be a persistent issue and thus require regular checks and treatment.
- Obesity: It’s important for Turkish Vans to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and adequate exercise to prevent obesity and its associated health problems.
As always, regular veterinary check-ups are recommended to monitor and maintain the health of your feline friend.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Turkish Van
This is a rare breed; therefore, finding a Turkish Van can be a challenge. Adopting one from a shelter might be rare, but specialized rescue groups exist. When considering a breeder, it’s essential to find someone who specializes in the breed and can guarantee the health of their kittens. Costs can range from $600 to more than $1500, depending on the lineage and location.
Diet and Nutrition
Turkish Vans will do well on a balanced, age-appropriate, high-quality diet. Whether you choose wet or dry food, ensure meat is the primary ingredient. Due to their active nature, they may require more calories but monitor their food intake to prevent obesity. Avoid foods high in fillers and carbohydrates. Occasional treats are fine, and always provide plentiful fresh water—something which should be no problem for this water-loving breed.
Comparable Breeds
If you find the Turkish Van intriguing, similar breeds worth exploring include:
- Maine Coon: Famous for their size, tufted ears, and friendly demeanor, embodying the gentle giant of the cat world.
- Norwegian Forest Cat: Known for their thick, water-repellent coat and rugged appearance, reflecting their Scandinavian heritage.
- Siberian: Boasts a dense, water-resistant coat and a hearty constitution, known for their agility and playful nature.
- Ragdoll: Characterized by their striking blue eyes, semi-long fur, and docile, affectionate temperament, often going limp when held.
For more cat breed profiles, feel free to explore our extensive collection.
FAQ’s about Turkish Van
Is a Turkish Van a rare cat?
Yes, outside of Turkey, the Turkish Van is considered quite a rare breed. Their unique coat pattern and affinity for watery escapades make them a treasure amongst cat enthusiasts.
Are Turkish Van cats cuddly?
Turkish Vans can be affectionate with their chosen humans and enjoy cuddling on their own terms. However, like most cats, they also have an independent streak and prefer choosing when to share these special moments.
Why do Turkish vans like water?
It’s believed that their origin around the Lake Van region, a naturally hot environment, may have influenced their unusual love for water. This unique trait has earned them the nickname “swimming cat.”
Are Turkish Van cats intelligent?
Absolutely! Turkish Vans are known to be highly intelligent and responsive. These active cats are quick learners and rarely forget a new trick or routine once they’ve mastered it.
Can Turkish Van cats be left alone?
While they are somewhat independent, Turkish Vans thrive on social interaction and may become lonely if left alone for extended periods.
Are Turkish Vans friendly?
Turkish Vans are generally friendly and sociable, especially with family members, but they can be cautious around strangers.
What is a purebred Turkish Van?
A purebred Turkish Van is a cat that has been bred to meet the specific standards of the breed without crossbreeding with other cat breeds.