Turkish van

Overall description of the breed

The Turkish Van Cat breed, also known as the "Van Cat of the Waters," is an enchanting creature with a bicolor coat that evokes the mystery of the Eastern lands. Originating from the Van region in Turkey, this cat possesses a rich history and unique characteristics that have captivated the attention of feline enthusiasts worldwide. Let's explore together the origins, morphology, personality, and distinctive features of the charming Turkish Van Cat.

The Turkish Van Cat has very ancient origins; in Armenia, some coins dating between 75 and 387 AD have been discovered featuring a strikingly similar cat to the "Turkish Van," suggesting its presence at that time.

The history of the Turkish Van Cat dates back thousands of years, to ancient times. Legend has it that these cats are descendants of animals on Noah's Ark during the Flood. This breed is particularly associated with the Van region, located in eastern Turkey near the lake of the same name. Turkish Van Cats are renowned for their affinity for water, a rare trait among domestic felines.

The ancestors of the Turkish Van Cat are bicolor cats that evolved to adapt to the harsh conditions of the Van region. Their coat is primarily white, with colorful patches, often red or black, usually concentrated on the head and tail. Their white coat is a natural adaptation to the summer heat of the region, while the colored patches provide a touch of camouflage and protection.

In terms of morphology, the Turkish Van Cat has a sturdy and muscular build. They have a medium to large size, with an average length of 40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 inches) and an average weight of 3 to 5 kg (7 to 11 lbs). Their coat is semi-long, with a soft and silky texture, distinguishing them from other Turkish cat breeds.

The personality of the Turkish Van Cat is as unique as its appearance. They are known for being intelligent, curious, and active. Their affinity for water is an unusual trait, as they often have a reputation for enjoying swimming and playing in water. These cats are also affectionate towards their owners, although they may occasionally show an independent and spirited side.

In 1955, two British breeders named Laura Lushington and Sonia Halliday brought several specimens to the United Kingdom. They initiated a breeding program to identify the most exceptional subjects and optimize the inherent characteristics and physical qualities of the Van Cats from the Island of Van.

The breed standard for the Turkish Van Cat was established in 1989 by the Van Cat Research Centre in Turkey. This center has worked to preserve the purity of the breed while documenting its unique features. The first Turkish Van Cats were imported to the United States in 1982 and were accepted in exhibitions by the Cat Fancier Association (CFA) in 1994. Although the Turkish Van Cat is widely recognized in Turkey and Europe, it has not yet achieved the global recognition as widespread as some other cat breeds.

In conclusion, the Turkish Van Cat embodies the mysterious beauty of the Van region in Turkey. Its bicolor coat, solid morphology, and fascination with water make it a distinct cat breed that has captivated feline lovers across generations. While its global recognition may not be as extensive as that of other breeds, the unique charm of the Turkish Van Cat continues to shine among those who appreciate feline history and diversity.