Turkish van cats are affectionate, intelligent, and playful. They are also highly energetic, curious, and are capable of forming strong bonds with their human parents. They are loyal and social but can also be independent at times. The unique thing about Turkish vans is their love of water. Unlike many cats, Turkish kittens may enjoy bathing, swimming, or playing in the pool.
Turkish vans come from an ancient breed originating in the Lake Van region of Turkey, earning them their name. In terms of appearance, their coat is semi-long, soft to the touch, and water-resistant. The colour of the coat is often white with distinct markings, usually around the head and tail. Other common coat colours include auburn, cream, blue, and black. Their striking eyes can be blue, amber, or odd-eyed (one blue, one amber), adding to their unique appearance.
Due to their thick coats, Turkish vans thrive in cooler environments, but they are adaptable and can handle various weather conditions when cared for properly.
Key Pointers
- Weight: 7 to 20 pounds (3 to 9 kg)
- Height: 9 to 11 inches (23 to 28 cm)
- Lifespan: 12 to 17 years
- Coat: Semi-long, soft, water-resistant, usually white with coloured markings around the head and tail
Ratings
- Friendliness ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ability to adapt ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Behaviour towards other pets ⭐⭐⭐
- Playfulness ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Tendency to obesity ⭐⭐
- Overall health ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Life expectancy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Easy to train ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Advisable for first-time owners ⭐⭐⭐
One star = Low/Bad
Five stars = High/Good
Physical Appearance
Turkish van cats can be distinctively recognised by their unique markings and colour patterns of coat. They have a predominantly white, semi-longhaired coat that is soft, silky, and water-resistant. The signature colour markings, known as the "van pattern," appear mainly on their head and tail, with the rest of the body remaining white. These markings can come in various colours such as auburn, cream, black, blue, or tortoiseshell.
To recognise an original Turkish van furry feline, look for its striking eyes, which can be blue, amber, or odd-eyed (one blue and one amber). The Turkish van cat is muscular, with a broad chest and strong legs. Turkish vans do not have an undercoat, which minimises matting. A key characteristic is their large, bushy tail, which often has the same colour as the markings on their head.
Health
Turkish van cats are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. One common problem is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a heart condition that causes the walls of the heart to thicken, leading to heart failure. Regular veterinary check-ups, early detection, and proper care can help manage this condition.
Deafness is another issue particularly common in Turkish van cats with blue eyes. Cats with odd eyes (one blue, one amber) are less likely to be affected, but regular hearing tests from a young age can help monitor this. Keeping an eye on any unusual behaviour, like lack of response to sounds, can also prevent deafness.
Urinary tract infections (UTI) may also affect Turkish vans, so it is important to provide clean drinking water and a well-balanced diet to reduce risks. UTIs can lead to more serious kidney problems if left untreated, so monitoring bathroom habits and ensuring hydration are essential.
Regular vet visits, vaccinations, and preventive care can keep your Turkish van cat in good health.
Grooming
Turkish vans have a semi-long coat that is water-resistant. They do not have an undercoat, making grooming easier compared to other long-haired breeds. Although their coat is less prone to matting, it still requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. A grooming glove or soft-bristle brush works best to maintain their sleek coat. During seasonal shedding, which occurs more in warmer months, you may need to brush them more frequently.
Grooming also includes nail trimming every few weeks, as their nails can grow quickly and may lead to discomfort. Regular ear checks and cleaning are important to prevent ear infections, especially since Turkish vans can be prone to ear wax buildup. Dental care, such as brushing their teeth with a cat-safe toothpaste, is crucial to prevent dental diseases like gingivitis. Since Turkish vans like keeping themselves clean, they do not require frequent baths, but occasional baths might be good for them, especially if your Turkish van cat loves water.
Playing
Interactive play helps cats develop social skills and reduce stress. Toys that require chasing, jumping, or fetching not only help felines stay active but also forge bond with humans.
Turkish van cats are highly energetic. Toys that simulate hunting, like feather wands, balls, or toy mice, allow them to tap into their natural instincts while providing both physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Turkish vans are also highly intelligent, so puzzles or treat-dispensing toys can keep them mentally sharp and engaged, reducing the chances of boredom.
Play is essential for your Turkish cat as it will keep them active, preventing weight gain and obesity, which can lead to a host of health problems such as joint issues or diabetes. Regular physical activity through playtimes can improve your Turkish van’s cardiovascular health.
For mental health, playtime provides Turkish vans with an outlet for their energy, reducing stress and anxiety. Lack of play can lead to negative behaviours like scratching furniture or becoming overly vocal. Engaging them in daily play routines helps maintain a balanced temperament.