Turkse Van

The lively Turkish Van loves water and swimming. Despite its independent personality, it is social towards other cats. This cat has a strong character and a will of its own. If something or someone crosses its boundaries, the Turkish Van will undoubtedly make it known. Its coat requires regular care.

Temperament

The robust Turkish Van is a lively and playful cat that, unlike most cats, enjoys water and swimming. Though independent with a strong personality, it is social with other cats. This was not always the case, as the breed was once notorious for its aggressiveness. Fortunately, the Turkish Van is now a true favourite and can even be very possessive of its owner. It adapts well to apartment living but feels most at home when it has access to a large garden with a pool. The breed’s development is only complete between the ages of three and five years. It has a soft voice. Outside of the moulting period, coat care is limited to a weekly brushing.

Physical characteristics

Colour

The Turkish Van has a pure white coat. The placement of markings is known as the ‘Van’ pattern. Allowed colour variations include red with white and cream with white.

Body, legs, and tail

The Turkish Van has a long, large, and sturdy body with a rounded chest. Its hips are relatively broad. The bones are strong, and the muscles are well-developed. The legs are of medium length, with the hind legs being longer than the front legs. The paws are rounded, with well-developed tufts of fur between the toes. The tail is of medium length and thick, with lush, fluffy fur or a plume-like appearance. The tail fur must be at least five centimetres long and should have an even colour throughout.

Head, ears, and eyes

The head of the Turkish Van is medium to large and as long as it is wide. It has no sharp angles or straight lines. The breed has high cheekbones and a round, full muzzle. The chin is slightly rounded. The Turkish Van has large ears that are broad at the base, with slightly rounded tips. The ears are set high on the head. The eyes are large and shaped like peaches or walnuts, set at a slight angle. The eyelids are surrounded by a pink hue. The eyes are typically blue or amber but can also be of different colours. Green eye colour is also permitted.

Coat

The Turkish Van has a semi-long to long coat that feels soft and silky. The undercoat is not woolly. The trousers and ruff of the cat become particularly thick and lush in winter.