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Turkish Van
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Physical Characteristics
- White, semi-longhaired with colored markings restricted primarily to the head and tail
- The coat lacks an undercoat and has a very unique cashmere-like texture that makes it water resistant
- Large and agile cat of substantial strength
Temperament
- Very smart and curious
Medical Conditions
- Healthy breed
- Needs boosters by 12 weeks old
- Annual vet visit for checkups is important
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- Does best indoors
- Needs sufficient scratching device
- Declawing is not recommended
- Kittens are available after 12-16 weeks
- Low maintenance
Grooming
- Easily groomed
- Trim nails regularly
Other Facts
- "Van" is a common term in the region that has been given to a number of towns, villages and even a lake
- This breed has been known by a variety of names over the centuries, such as the white ringtail and the Russian longhair
- The Van and the Angora are distinct breeds that developed in geographically distant regions of Turkey
- The Turkish Van is considered by many to be the original breed to carry the piebald gene; because of this, other piebald cats are said to be “van-patterned” after the breed that originally sported it
- These cats love water and in their native region they have been termed “the Swimming Cats”
Breed History
- Developed in central and southwest Asia, which today encompasses the countries of Iran, Iraq, southwest Soviet Union and eastern Turkey
- They were first brought to England in 1955 as the Turkish cats, but this was later changed to Turkish Van to avoid confusion with the Turkish Angora
- Arrived in the United States in 1982
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Harrier Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit HCA Rescue
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