Turkish Van: The Swimming Cat With a Distinctive Pattern

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Most cats avoid water, but the Turkish Van is not most cats. This ancient breed from eastern Turkey has earned the nickname swimming cat, and many individuals will happily paddle in a pool, dive into a bathtub or splash in a dripping tap. Its strong body, mostly white coat and bold personality make it easy to recognize.

Origins

The Turkish Van takes its name from Lake Van, in eastern Turkey, where the breed is believed to have developed over centuries in a harsh climate. In 1955, two British women, Laura Lushington and Sonia Halliday, brought a pair of these cats back to England, and they were developed into a recognized breed. The Turkish Van is closely related to the Turkish Angora, but they are distinct. In Turkey, the breed is considered a national treasure.

Appearance

Turkish Vans are large, strong and muscular, with males weighing 10 to 20 pounds and females 7 to 12 pounds. They grow slowly, reaching full size at three to five years. Key features:

• A semi-long, silky coat that is water-resistant, with little undercoat
• The van pattern, which is a white body with color on the head, often with a white blaze, and on the tail
• Eyes in amber, blue or odd-colored, with one of each
• A broad chest and strong legs
• A full, brush-like tail, often marked with rings

Coat length changes with the seasons, with a thinner coat in summer.

Temperament

Turkish Vans are intelligent and energetic.

• Active. They climb, jump and explore constantly.
• Playful. They enjoy fetch and chasing toys.
• Independent. They are affectionate but not always cuddly.
• Strong-willed. They know what they want, and may test boundaries.
• Water-loving. Many enjoy water play, so secure toilets and pools.

They bond with their families and can be reserved with strangers. Because they are strong, young children should be taught to handle them gently. See how to stop a cat from biting for managing play.

Grooming

The coat is surprisingly easy to care for.

• Comb twice a week, with a wide-toothed comb, more often during seasonal shedding. See how to brush a cat.
• Bathe only when needed. Many Vans tolerate baths better than other cats. See how to bathe a cat.
• Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth. See how to trim cat nails and cat dental disease.

Health

Turkish Vans are generally healthy. Ask breeders about:

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Heart scans of breeding cats are advised.
• Deafness, which can occur in white cats with blue eyes
• Dental problems
• Weight management. See how much should I feed my cat.

Keep vaccines and parasite control current. See the cat vaccination schedule, and use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

Living with a Turkish Van

Vans need space and activity.

• Provide tall cat trees and shelves. See how to choose a cat tree.
• Offer interactive play and puzzle toys. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.
• Allow supervised water play, with a shallow tub or fountain.
• Secure valuables, since they can knock things over, and keep lids closed on toilets and pools. See cat-proofing your home.

Is a Turkish Van right for you?

A Turkish Van suits active homes, owners who enjoy play and those who like a bold cat. It may not suit people who want a quiet lap cat, or who dislike mischief.

Van or Angora?

Both come from Turkey, and both are semi-longhaired. The Angora is generally slimmer and more all white, and the Van is more muscular with the distinctive pattern. See the Turkish Angora profile.

Questions to ask a breeder

Ask for health screening, hearing information, parents' temperaments and socialization. Check the registry, and read the contract. Breeders should keep kittens until twelve weeks.

Water play safely

If your Van loves water, offer a shallow basin or a pet fountain. Supervise baths or pools, empty tubs and sinks after use and keep toilet lids down. Dry the coat well afterward, since damp fur can chill a cat. If a Van does not like water, do not force it. Not every Van is a swimmer, and it is fine to let the cat choose.

Exercise needs

This breed needs vigorous activity. Rotate toys, provide tall climbing furniture and play for at least half an hour a day. A bored Van can become destructive, knocking items off shelves or opening cupboards.

Common mistakes

Do not expect a cuddly lap cat. Provide enough stimulation, and respect the cat's independence.