The Turkish Van cat comes from cats from the mountainous regions around Lake Van. It is one of the largest breeds, with the distinctive Van pattern. Their eyes, blue or amber, stand out and may present heterochromia. They are social, affectionate and intelligent cats.
General details
They are one of the largest breeds, with males weighing between 4.5 and 9 kilos, and females between 3 and 5.5 kilos. The height is between 23 and 28 centimeters, and between 36 and 43 centimeters long. Under normal conditions they can live between 15 and 18 years. This breed is recognized by associations such as the International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA).
Breed history in brief
The Turkish Van cat breed should not be confused with the Turkish Van or Angora breed. Despite its name, the Turkish Van cat comes from selective breeding in the United Kingdom, from cats selected from different Turkish cities. The first breeding took place in 1955. In 1969 the first associations gave them the pedigree, although initially it was simply called "Turkish cat". In the 1970s it was imported to the United States, with genuine efforts to popularize the breed starting in 1983, and its acceptance as a breed of its own by TICA in 1985. Since then, it is a breed that has been winning various awards.
Breed characteristics
It is one of the largest breeds, with a long and muscular body. The center of gravity is forward, with broad shoulders, and the hind legs are longer than the front legs, without giving the impression of being disproportionate. This physical combination gives them a great jumping ability. The eyes are always blue or amber, with the possibility of heterochromia. The muzzle follows the style of Asian cats, straight and long with high cheekbones. The coat is semi-long (shorter in summer than in winter), single-coated and water-repellent. The coat has the Van pattern, where only the tail and head are colored, and the rest of the animal is white. The usual color combination is white and red brindle. They are intelligent and active cats, who take advantage of their athletic physique to climb and move around. Although they like to be with their family, they are not usually affectionate and get stressed quickly. They can socialize with other pets, as long as they feel they are the dominant ones.
Common health problems
They are healthy cats, without genetic problems characteristic of their breed, although they can develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Do you still not know the true nature of your cat?
Unlock the secrets of your pet's DNA with our two ranges.
