Turkish Van

Size:

Grooming:

Exercise Level:

Trainability:

Good with Children:

Good with other pets:

Affectionate:

Weight: 5 - 8kg M | 5 - 8kg F

Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 Years

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Introduction

The Turkish Van cat is a naturally occurring ancient breed believed to have existed amongst the animals saved in the Ark of Noah. Legend has it that when the boat reached Mount Ararat in eastern Turkey, the cats hopped off the boat and swam searching for signs of the shore. It was believed to have been blessed by God whose divine touch left a coloured marking on their white coats called ‘thumbprint of God’. It is believed to bring good luck.

Known as the ‘Turkish swimming cat’, the Turkish Van cat loves to play with water. It has the tendency to turn on the faucet on its own. As such, Turkish Van owners should be extra careful with the source of water when leaving this cat alone.

Gorgeous, graceful, athletic, and intelligent, the Turkish Van cat is a suitable companion for adult owners. Despite it being an affectionate cat, it is independent and loves to have a space of its own.

History

It is believed that the first recorded Van cat dates back to 1600-1200 BC. It is said to have semi-longhaired coats with ringed tails and coloured heads. Different forms of art have proved its presence in the ancient times, including carvings in pieces of jewellery, battle standard, and figurines.

Different forms of art have proved its presence in the ancient times. The Van cat’s origin in modern history has been well documented as well. The breed originated in the Lake Van of Turkey. In 1954, Journalist Laura Lushington and photographer Sonia Halliday were given two Turkish Van kittens (a male and a female) which they successfully imported to Britain. The female soon produced a litter of kittens having the ‘van patterning’ which refers to its distinctive ‘top-and-tail’ markings.

For years, other breeders supported Lushington in her quest for breed recognition in the UK. In 1959, Lushington and Halliday returned to Turkey to obtain two more kittens. From then on, they established a careful documentation of its breeding programme. In 1969, it reached its full GCCF Championship in Britain. It wasn’t until 1982 when the breed was introduced in the USA and in 1994, it gained a Championship status with the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA).

Appearance and Grooming

Male Turkish Van cats can weigh from 10-20 pounds whilst the females weigh 7-12 pounds. It has a sturdy body with a broad chest. It gains full maturity after three years or more. Everything is well-proportioned boasting a robust appearance with well-rounded paws that are tufted. It has a coloured plumed tail.

Another striking feature of a Turkish Van cat is its eye. It has large oval-shaped eyes with pink rims that made it look attentive and expressive. This feline is born with pale blue eyes that change to deeper blue or amber as the cat grows older. Some Turkish Van cats have odd-coloured eyes.

The Turkish Van’s head is broadly wedged shaped with ears that are moderately large. The insides of the ears are well feathered. The breed’s admirable long coat is soft and silky from the roots without woolly undercoat. The ruff on its neck and chest becomes fluffier as the cat matures. This breed is a pure white feline with colour markings on its head and tail. At present, more colours and pattern emerge including black, blue, tortie, and tabby.

The cashmere-like texture of the cat’s fur may seem like it is high maintenance, but once a week brushing would suffice. The Van cat requires basic grooming such as regular nail trimming, teeth brushing, and ear cleaning. The earlier these grooming routine is introduced, the better.

Temperament and Intelligence

With its water-resistant coat, the Turkish Van cat enjoys the rain and water. If it is not following its owner around, it may be busy exploring taps in the bathroom or playing on a sink in the kitchen. This fur ball is full of energy and loves to jump, climb and play retrieving and chasing games. It is also known for its love of heights. As a result, it can often be found perched up in high areas of the room. However, this playful feline is a bit clumsy that would frequently bump into things and unintentionally knock them over.

This feline might not be right if you are looking for a lap cat. It may be affectionate but it does not like to be picked up or cuddled a lot. It is an independent cat that loves to have its own space. Its interaction with people or with other animals should be on its own terms. It will attach itself to its chosen human who tends to its care. It can also be quite vocal producing a unique sound that resembles the sound of a sheep.

Nutrition and Feeding

The Turkish Van cat should be provided with a proper diet that fulfils its nutritional needs. It should be consistently given the same food following the same feeding schedule. If there are changes to its diet, those must be done gradually to prevent digestive problems.

The serving portions should depend on the cat’s weight, age, and activity level. Its diet must include at least 25% protein and just 5% carbohydrates.

Health and Exercise

The Turkish Van is considered one of the healthiest cat breeds and has a life expectancy of 12–14 years. There are no particular health issues associated with the Turkish Van, but she can still be at risk of contracting common feline diseases. To ensure that she is always in good health, take her regularly to the vet for check-ups.

The Turkish Van is a lively and highly intelligent feline. She tends to remain playful well into adulthood and even through senior years. The Van particularly enjoys playing with her human family as she is a naturally affectionate cat. Because she is supersmart, this kitty can learn some tricks and master the game of fetch.

The daily activities and play sessions of the Turkish Van are enough to keep her physically fit. She does not need to exercise beyond her everyday activities.

To avoid obesity, you need to be firm in monitoring her diet. Providing her with toys that help in keeping her active and entertained.

Cost of Ownership

Turkish Van cat breeders are uncommon in the UK. As such, acquiring one takes considerable time. Generally, a Turkish Van kitten costs between £300 and £600. The monthly costs of caring along with its food costs and other pet care needs largely depend on the area and the special needs of the said feline.

Turkish Van Breed Highlights

It is an independent feline that enjoys its own space.
It is a fur ball of energy that loves playing with water, jumping at great heights and running around the house.
It requires minimal grooming.

Are you sure the Turkish Van is the best breed for you? Take the Pet Breed Selector Quiz to find your perfect breed match.

Cat Breed Selector Quiz

Disclaimer:
The information, including measurements, prices and other estimates, on this page is provided for general reference purposes only.

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