Cat Breed

Turkish Van

energetic • independent • intelligent • water-loving

OriginTurkey

Lifespan12-17 years

Weight4-9 kg

Energy Levelhigh

Quick Stats

Sizelarge

Weight4-9 kg

Lifespan12-17 years

Energy Levelhigh

Groomingmoderate

Trainabilitymoderate

OriginTurkey

Temperament

energeticindependentintelligentwater-loving

Overview

The Turkish Van is a large, ancient breed famous for its love of water and distinctive "Van pattern" — a mostly white coat with colour limited to the head and tail. These robust, energetic cats are excellent swimmers and have a unique cashmere-like coat that is water-resistant.

Compatibility

Children

Good

Other Dogs

Fair

Cats

Fair

Apartment Living

Fair

Care Guide

Turkish Vans are active, independent cats that enjoy climbing and swimming. Provide access to water for play, tall climbing structures, and plenty of interactive enrichment. They can be independent but form strong bonds with their family.

Exercise Needs

Very active cats that need significant daily exercise. They love climbing, swimming, and playing with water. Provide robust cat trees and consider supervised water play.

Grooming

Brush 1-2 times per week. Their single-layer, water-resistant coat is surprisingly easy to maintain and naturally resists matting. Increase brushing during seasonal shedding.

Health Concerns

hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

deafness (in all-white individuals)

obesity

dental disease

Fun Facts

🐱Turkish Vans are known as "the swimming cat" and many genuinely enjoy swimming in pools, ponds, and bathtubs.

🐱Their distinctive pattern — colour only on the head and tail with a white body — is called the "Van pattern".

🐱Legend says the marks on a Turkish Van's head are where God touched them when they swam ashore from Noah's Ark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Turkish Vans really like water?

Yes, they are one of the few cat breeds that genuinely enjoy water. Many will swim, play in running water, and may even join their owners in the bath.

Are Turkish Vans rare?

Yes, they are one of the rarer cat breeds worldwide. In Turkey, they are considered a national treasure and their breeding is closely monitored.

Are Turkish Vans friendly?

They bond deeply with their family but can be reserved with strangers. They are affectionate on their own terms and more independent than many breeds.

What is the difference between Turkish Van and Turkish Angora?

Turkish Vans are larger, stockier, and known for the Van pattern, while Turkish Angoras are more slender and come in many colours. Vans are famous for loving water.