Donate us

Turkish Van

Height: 10 inches (25 cm) - 14 inches (35 cm) Weight: 10 pounds (4.5 kg) - 20 pounds (9 kg) Character: Turkish Vans are known for their playful, intelligent, and active nature. They are social cats that enjoy interacting with their human companions and often form strong bonds with their families. Their friendly demeanor makes them excellent companions for families, as they generally get along well with children and other pets. Turkish Vans are also known for their curiosity and intelligence, often exploring their surroundings and engaging in interactive play. They are energetic cats that enjoy climbing, jumping, and playing. Living conditions: Wool length: longhaired
The Turkish Van is a unique and ancient cat breed known for its distinctive "van" pattern and love of water. This breed hails from the Lake Van region of Eastern Turkey and is believed to have existed for centuries, adapted to the mountainous and rugged terrain of the area. The Turkish Van is distinguished by its semi-long-haired coat, which is predominantly white with colored markings restricted to the head and tail. The breed was first introduced to the Western world in the 1950s when two British photographers, Laura Lushington and Sonia Halliday, visited Turkey and became fascinated by these unique cats. They brought a pair of Turkish Vans back to the United Kingdom and began a breeding program to preserve and promote the breed. The Turkish Van was recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 1994 and is celebrated for its striking appearance and energetic personality. This breed is relatively rare outside its native region but has gained popularity among cat enthusiasts worldwide.  

Conditions of detention

Turkish Vans are active and require an environment that provides plenty of space to explore and play. They enjoy having access to climbing structures, interactive toys, and opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation.

Useful Fact:
Turkish Vans are known for their unique affinity for water and may enjoy playing in or around water, which is unusual for most domestic cats. They are sometimes referred to as “swimming cats” due to their enjoyment of this activity.

Nutrition and diet

Turkish Vans require high-quality food with a high protein content to maintain their energy
and activity levels. It is important to combine dry and wet food to prevent dehydration and
support urinary tract health.

Useful Fact: Turkish Vans prefer fish dishes and will enjoy a diet that includes fish.

Health

Turkish Vans are robust and healthy cats but are prone to obesity if their diet and activity
levels are not monitored. Regular veterinary visits will help maintain their health.

Useful Fact: Turkish Vans have a higher tendency towards deafness, especially individuals
with white fur.

Grooming and care

The Turkish Van has unique semi-long hair that does not mat and requires minimal care. It is
recommended to brush the cat 1-2 times a week to prevent tangling.

Useful Fact: Turkish Vans love water and may enjoy bathing, making grooming easier.

Education and training

Turkish Vans are known for their smart and trainable nature. They easily learn commands
and love intellectual games. Training with positive reinforcement will yield the best results.

Useful Fact: Turkish Vans can learn to perform dog-like commands, such as fetching items.

Toys and entertainment

These cats need active play and physical exercise. Toys for jumping, climbing, and especially
water toys will appeal to them.

Useful Fact: Turkish Vans enjoy playing with water toys because of their love for swimming.

Safety

Turkish Vans are very active and curious cats, so it is important to ensure a safe home
environment. Install screens on windows and keep dangerous objects out of reach.

Useful Fact: Turkish Vans can open doors and cabinets, so watch out for potentially
hazardous areas.

Accessories

For Turkish Vans, it is beneficial to have toys that can be used in water, as well as climbing
structures and scratching posts to meet their active needs.

Useful Fact: Turkish Vans love playing with drinking fountains and can spend hours watching
moving water.

Socialization

Turkish Vans are very friendly and sociable cats. They get along well with people and other
animals but require a lot of attention and interaction.

Useful Fact: Turkish Vans may display protective instincts towards their owners and
territory.

Travel and Transportation

Turkish Vans usually adapt well to trips and new environments. Use a quality carrier for safe
and comfortable transportation.

Useful Fact: Turkish Vans can quickly adapt to car trips, making them ideal travel
companions.

Behavior and psychology

Turkish Vans are energetic, intelligent, and curious cats. They love exploring their
surroundings and actively participating in their owners' lives. They enjoy being the center of
attention.

Useful Fact: Turkish Vans often follow their owners around the house and may participate in
household activities as if helping.

Legal aspects

When purchasing a Turkish Van, it is important to ensure that all documents confirming the
cat’s health and pedigree are in order. This will help avoid legal issues and confirm the
legality of the purchase.

Useful Fact: In some countries, the Turkish Van is considered a national treasure, and its
export may be restricted by law.