Characteristics

  • Playfulness
  • Activity Level
  • Friendliness to Other Pets
  • Friendliness to Children
  • Grooming Requirements
  • Vocality
  • Need for attention
  • Affection towards owners
  • Docility
  • Intelligence
  • Independence
  • Hardiness

History and Origins

The Turkish Van cat, a breed with a rich history, originates from the Lake Van region in eastern Turkey. Known for its distinctive coat pattern and affinity for water, the breed has been around for centuries, but it wasn't formally recognized in Western countries until the mid-20th century. These cats are distinguished by their cashmere-like white coats with colored markings on the head and tail. The breed's history is steeped in legend, with many tales of their swimming prowess and their unique coat that supposedly dries quickly after being wet.

Personality

Turkish Van cats are known for their energetic and playful nature. They possess a high level of intelligence and curiosity, making them fun-loving companions who enjoy interactive toys and puzzles. Unlike many other breeds, Turkish Vans form strong bonds with their families but maintain a sense of independence. They are affectionate on their own terms and often select their favorite person in the household to shower with love. Their sociable demeanor means they usually get along well with children and other pets.

Nutrition and Feeding

Turkish Van cats require a balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins and fats to maintain their muscular build and energy levels. It's important to provide them with cat food that meets their nutritional needs at different life stages. Portion control is crucial to prevent obesity, especially for indoor cats with lower activity levels. Always ensure they have access to fresh, clean water, particularly since this breed has a fascination with water and may play with it.

Grooming and Care

The Turkish Van's semi-long coat is surprisingly low maintenance, thanks to its texture that resists matting. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition. During the shedding season, more frequent grooming may be necessary to remove loose hair. These cats also require regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care as part of their grooming routine to prevent common health issues.

Specific Needs

Turkish Vans are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be predisposed to certain genetic conditions. It's important for owners to be aware of potential health concerns such as heart issues and ensure regular veterinary check-ups. Their love of water can be both a unique trait and a safety concern, so it's crucial to supervise any aquatic play to prevent accidents.

Training

Due to their intelligence and playful nature, Turkish Van cats are quite receptive to training. They can learn to respond to basic commands, use a scratching post, and even perform tricks or walk on a leash with proper training and positive reinforcement. Early socialization is beneficial to help them become well-adjusted adults, comfortable with handling and different environments.

Need to Know

Prospective Turkish Van cat owners should understand this breed's unique characteristics and needs. Their affinity for water, energetic personality, and independent nature make them a unique addition to any household. Providing an enriching environment with plenty of space for play and exploration is key. Their social nature and loyalty make them wonderful companions, but they thrive best when their need for interaction and mental stimulation is met.

Turkish Van Cat  Adoption

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Turkish Van Cat  Health and Nutrition

Turkish Van Cat  Behaviour and Traning

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Purrfect matches

Pawsome reviews

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Caitlin H.

5

Purebred Kitties made the adoption process so easy. I never felt like I was in the dark at any point, which I found so helpful. Alona was genuine, kind, and answered all of my questions in a timely manor. I really appreciate everyone's help in bringing our new baby home, he's loved so much already!

Elise H.

5

I am so impressed! Instant clarification, communication, compassion. Video calls offered to assure that this company is not a scam. Caring consultants connect breeder with buyers making the middle person a fast facilitator of the transaction and steps.

Caitlin H.

5

Purebredkitties is a class outfit. They made the transaction easy and worry free. Adoption specialst Kim A worked tirelessly to address issues on my behalf. Even responded to me in an e- mail at 3 am her time. :o) This interaction has been an exceptionally rewarding experience

Karen P.

5

Communication is great. We were able to FaceTime with our baby pay by credit card, and when we want to pick her up, she was exactly as we expected. Only in our house two days and she’s already doing wonderfully with the family! It would be nice if for the cost the pedigree papers were included as many breeders do this the additional cost for these was hundreds of dollars and since she was arriving spayed we didn’t feel the need to pay the additional money. As my title says it’s expensive, but it was worth it the quality And size of this kitten is amazing.

Caitlin H.

5

The entire adoption process between myself and this wonderful team was amazing. I am being a loving new pet mom to a beautiful kitten that I named Princess. I intend to adopt another one in the future with Maria again. I am over the moon happy. Thank you guys so much

Micke L.

5

Sphynx mom of 4. I have 4 Sphynx kittys from Maria at purebredkitties.com love them all - she's amazing to work with

Victoria H.

5

The entire process to get our fluffy bundle of joy was stellar. Maria is super sweet and was so helpful in answering any and all of our questions. I love how the health of the cat is taken seriously throughout the process, ours just came in with some minor sniffles (but were pretty sure that's from traveling through the airport and it was quickly/easily cured). On top of all that, the video call we had to meet our little guy before we bought him was a great way to get an small sneak peak at his personality and reinforce that we were making the right choice. I'm recommending Purebred Kitties to any of my friends looking to get their own Maine Coon.

Victoria H.

5

Just got my second Sphynx from purebred kitties, as my first experience was perfect and without issue. My second experience was just as good as the first. I love both of my cats to death, they have the best personalities, both are healthy, and absolutely adorable.

Caitlin H.

5

Purebred Kitties made the adoption process so easy. I never felt like I was in the dark at any point, which I found so helpful. Alona was genuine, kind, and answered all of my questions in a timely manor. I really appreciate everyone's help in bringing our new baby home, he's loved so much already!

Elise H.

5

I am so impressed! Instant clarification, communication, compassion. Video calls offered to assure that this company is not a scam. Caring consultants connect breeder with buyers making the middle person a fast facilitator of the transaction and steps.

Michael R.

5

Purebredkitties is a class outfit. They made the transaction easy and worry free. Adoption specialst Kim A worked tirelessly to address issues on my behalf. Even responded to me in an e- mail at 3 am her time. :o) This interaction has been an exceptionally rewarding experience

Karen P.

5

Communication is great. We were able to FaceTime with our baby pay by credit card, and when we want to pick her up, she was exactly as we expected. Only in our house two days and she’s already doing wonderfully with the family! It would be nice if for the cost the pedigree papers were included as many breeders do this the additional cost for these was hundreds of dollars and since she was arriving spayed we didn’t feel the need to pay the additional money. As my title says it’s expensive, but it was worth it the quality And size of this kitten is amazing.

Pamela L.

5

The entire adoption process between myself and this wonderful team was amazing. I am being a loving new pet mom to a beautiful kitten that I named Princess. I intend to adopt another one in the future with Maria again. I am over the moon happy. Thank you guys so much

Micke L.

5

Sphynx mom of 4. I have 4 Sphynx kittys from Maria at purebredkitties.com love them all - she's amazing to work with

Victoria H.

5

The entire process to get our fluffy bundle of joy was stellar. Maria is super sweet and was so helpful in answering any and all of our questions. I love how the health of the cat is taken seriously throughout the process, ours just came in with some minor sniffles (but were pretty sure that's from traveling through the airport and it was quickly/easily cured). On top of all that, the video call we had to meet our little guy before we bought him was a great way to get an small sneak peak at his personality and reinforce that we were making the right choice. I'm recommending Purebred Kitties to any of my friends looking to get their own Maine Coon.

Alec B.

5

Just got my second Sphynx from purebred kitties, as my first experience was perfect and without issue. My second experience was just as good as the first. I love both of my cats to death, they have the best personalities, both are healthy, and absolutely adorable.

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