Turkish Van Cats - 5 Fascinating Things You Should Know

The Turkish Van is more than just a beautiful cat with striking markings. It's a breed shrouded in mystique and rarity, boasting a history that reaches back to the far corners of southeast Turkey and beyond.

But what makes this cat so unique? Why does its coat pattern captivate so many?

In this article, we'll discuss Turkish Van cats, exploring their origins, dispelling common myths, and uncovering some astonishing facts. Specifically, we'll share 5 fascinating things you should know about Turkish Van Cats.

Turkish Van Cats: 5 Fascinating Things You Should Know

Turkish Van Cats: Breed History

Turkish Van Cats hail from a region that spans southeast Turkey and parts of what we now recognize as Iran, Iraq, and Russia. Their history is as intriguing as it is mysterious.

Origins: A Puzzle Wrapped in a Mystery

The origins of the Turkish Van Cats remain uncertain. When did these cats first appear? That's a question without a clear answer. Some reports suggest that Crusaders might have brought them to Europe, hinting that the breed had already been established by then.

Arrival in the UK: A New Chapter

1955 marked a significant year for the Turkish Van Cats. It was then that the breed first arrived in the United Kingdom. The reception was warm, and their unique beauty captured hearts. The UK-based Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) recognized the breed officially in 1969.

Turkish Van Cats in the US: A Late Entry

The United States welcomed the Turkish Van Cats much later. They didn't set paw on American soil until 1982. The breed continued to flourish and won recognition from the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 1994.

Turkish Van Cats: Breed Description

Turkish Van Cats are renowned for their unique appearance, boasting a distinctive coat pattern that sets them apart. All Turkish Van cats have a glistening chalk-white body, with color patches limited to the tail and head.

A Dazzling Chalk-White Coat

The Turkish Van Cat's body shines with a glistening chalk-white hue. But what truly makes this coat special are the colored patches. These are limited to the tail and head, adding a splash of color to the pure white canvas.

Additional color markings on the body are allowed, as long as they make up no more than 15 percent of the total area (minus the head and tail).

Symmetry and Balance: The Inverted V Pattern

Ideally, the head patches should form a symmetrical inverted V pattern, divided by white up to at least the ears' front edge. It's a beautiful touch that adds grace to the cat's appearance.

Variety in Colors and Patterns

The head patches and tail can exhibit several colors such as red, cream, black, or blue. Even tabby patterns within these colored areas are permitted, as well as combinations of more than one color. It's a feast for the eyes!

Coat Texture: Soft and Cashmere-Like

The Turkish Van Cat's coat is semi-longhair, but what really stands out is its soft and "cashmere-like" feel. This luxurious texture comes from the absence of a thick undercoat, making the coat a delight to touch.

Tail: A Brush Appearance

The tail, with its "brush appearance," complements the coat, reflecting the cat's elegance and charm.

Body Structure: Sturdy and Graceful

This breed showcases a moderately long and sturdy body. It's vital that the shoulders are as broad as the head, lending a sense of balance to the cat's physique.

Eye Colors: A Window to Mystery

Eye colors in Turkish Van cats can be either amber or blue, or a combination of both (odd-eyed cats). Even more intriguing are the odd-eyed cats, displaying a combination of both colors.

Turkish Van Cats are more than just beautiful. They are an embodiment of grace, mystery, and elegance. From the chalk-white body adorned with colorful patches to the luxurious texture of their coat, they mesmerize all who encounter them.

5 Fascinating Facts about Turkish Van Cats

Turkish Van Cats, with their elegant appearance and remarkable coat patterns, have captured many hearts. But there's more to this breed than meets the eye. Here are five fascinating facts that uncover the mysteries and dispel common myths about these extraordinary cats.

1. The Mystical Piebald Gene: A Genetic Marvel

A special gene, known as the piebald gene, gives the Turkish Van its characteristic white fur with patches of color on the head and tail.

Named after the black and white magpie, this gene is believed to have first appeared in this breed. It's a genetic pattern that can also be found in other animals, like horses and rabbits, making it a fascinating natural phenomenon.

2. The Swimming Cats: Myth or Reality?

Laura Lushington, one of the two women who first imported Turkish Van cats into the UK in 1955, wrote about how much her cats loved swimming.

She described a specific event that she experienced with her newly acquired cats while still in Turkey. Traveling in her car on a hot day, she stopped to cool off in a nearby river, and to her surprise, the cats joined her in the water.

Based on that incident, she provided her cats with water containers where they could sit for a few minutes and enjoy a self-initiated bath.

However, many owners suggest that this isn't the case with their own resident Turkish Vans. While the story is lovely, it's fair to say that not all Turkish Van cats enjoy being in the water.

3. Distinct from the Turkish Angora: A Separate Identity

Don't mistake the Turkish Van for the Turkish Angora just because of the color pattern. Genetic evidence and breed history affirm that these two breeds are entirely distinct from one another.

This common misconception emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique identity of the Turkish Van.

4. Van Pattern: A Legacy Beyond the Turkish Van

The piebald gene that's responsible for the Turkish Van's unique coat pattern can now be found in other cat breeds. "Van" (without the "Turkish" prefix) has become a term used to describe a bicolor pattern where the tail and top of the head are the only places showing color on an otherwise white cat.

Breeds that can have a Van pattern include the Scottish Fold and many others. Non-purebred cats can also have this coat pattern.

5. A Rare Treasure: The Elusive Turkish Van Cats

If you come across a Turkish Van cat at a local cat show, consider yourself lucky. These cats are very rare. The CFA published a list of cat breeds by popularity, based on its registries. Out of the 42 breeds recognized by the CFA, Turkish Van was number 40!

"Is my cat a Turkish Van?"

Turkish Van Cats are a rare and distinctive breed. Finding a purebred Turkish Van in a shelter or casually on the streets is highly unlikely. But what if your cat resembles this unique breed?

Let's talk about what makes a Turkish Van and how to recognize a Turkish Van lookalike.

Beginning: Understanding the Rarity of Turkish Van Cats

Turkish Van Cats hold a special allure with their distinct coat pattern. They rank low in popularity among recognized breeds, making them an uncommon sight.

Is Your Cat a Registered Turkish Van?

If you have a cat that bears a resemblance to the Turkish Van, it's essential to recognize the nature of this breed's rarity. Without registration from an ethical breeder, a cat is not a purebred Turkish Van.

The Enchanting Lookalike: A Common Coat Pattern

The coat pattern, though specific to the Turkish Van, is not rare. A white body, coupled with a colored tail and head patch, is something you might see in other cats.

This resemblance does not make them Turkish Vans, but it adds an exotic touch to their appearance.

Embracing the Lookalike: Unique Yet Familiar

Your cat may not be a genuine Turkish Van, but that doesn't take away its charm. Many cats with a similar coat pattern are looking for loving homes.

Adopting one can provide you with a beautiful companion that carries the mystique of the Turkish Van.

A Closer Look at Turkish Van Cats & Their Fascinating Facts

In our exploration of Turkish Van Cats, we've discussed their captivating beauty, unique coat pattern, and the charming allure that defines them.

From understanding the rare gene that characterizes their appearance to debunking myths about their love for swimming, we've talked about what truly makes these cats a one-of-a-kind breed.

Whether you're a proud owner of a Turkish Van or simply entranced by their exotic grace, their mystique transcends the ordinary and invites us into a world of allure and splendor.

39 comments on “Turkish Van Cats – 5 Fascinating Things You Should Know”

Becky June 12, 2023

I need to get a DNA test for my Hairy to confirm, but he ticks off the boxes for Turkish Van with the exception of no fondness for playing with water. He has the typical Van markings, blue eyes, super-soft mostly-white coat, loves high places, very muscular and athletic. He was given to me by a co-worker who, in turn, got Hairy from a former roommate who supposedly had his papers. This boy follows me all over the place when I get home from work or wherever, is vocal about getting treats or attention, is affectionate but doesn't care to be held. He does love to be brushed and purrs loudly when he gets it. His Van markings are cream on chalky white. He's so fluffy that I call him my Floofy-Fluffy-Poofy-Puffy and Fluffer Nutter. lol

Rachael September 30, 2022

I have a Turkish Van and domestic shorthair mix! He is absolutely amazing and stunning. His mother was domestic shorthair and his father was a registered Turkish van. They didn’t intend for them to mate but things happen! He has every characteristic of a Turkish van down to the playing fetch! He loves every animal, even my hamsters and would cuddle them if I let him inside the cage! He is such an amazing cat, and he weighs 21lbs! Big boy. This breed is phenomenal if you ever get a chance to own one of these cats don’t pass it up!

Maryann March 20, 2023

I have a male also and he's the best cat.He's a big boy too weighing 23 lbs.

Beth September 22, 2022

I think we have a Turkish Van cat. He looks exactly what's on the pictures and descriptions. We love him so much. He is a sweet cat but not so cuddly. He only cuddle for a few minutes and he takes off and wants to play. We got him during COVID lockdown in a country side where we live. I want to take him in a show because he is so handsome. I wish I could post his pictures but I don't know how for now. I got excited finding out that he's a rare cat. Thank you.

Joy January 29, 2023

My sister back in the Philippines adopted a cat from the street that might be a Turkish van , she is white with black tail and a color black on her left ear. She is so adorable and the sweetest thing ever.

Vanessa April 20, 2022

I believe a have a Turkish Van cat but not purebred. He has all the traits of one though. I have had him since he was given to me from a friend that got him from Humane Society and he was a year and a half. They named him lucky because they said he had fresh scars around his neck and they though try no one would take him. He turned into the best cat ever. He’s an indoor/outdoor cat. He surprises me everyday with how active he is and playful. I have three other cats and two are kittens and he is good with them. Hey are all females too. He brings them toys(lizards) from outside so they can play with them sinc feed they are not allowed yet to go outside. He snuggles next to me, he follows me, he acts very fatherly to the others and loves water. Once I gave him a bath since he came back all dirty from being outside and he loved it. He leaves at dusk and comes in before sun up. He has orange beautiful eyes and when he is playing or frisky his eyes get dark (scary) but he is a gentle giant. He is huge, almost 20lbs. He has to be 8-9 years old. He doesn’t like to be held at all but loves attention and play chase in the backyard. I’m glad I looked more into his back ground, even my vet didn’t even know, he just said shorthair breed. I truly have a beautiful gem and I am honored to have Bosscoe in my life! 🐾

vansX2 April 2, 2022

I have two Purebred Turkish Van's. "Show Alter Males ". I purchased the Black/ White as a 10 month old kitten in April '19 My second boy is a Red/White. I purchased him at 3 months in November '19. (Miles)is the Black/White, he has a reversed "V" Bandit mask. (Jackpot) is my Red/White. Both cats are from the same TICA breeder in Texas.

Ailie Henson February 20, 2022

i have two wonderful turkish vans. I have shown both but only one enjoyed the show ring. She loved it so much her once home i could not dismantle her show cage without being told off. As for the water thing...i often find toy mice in the water bowl, and the one who loved being shown would claw my back to get into the tub for her bath (literally climb up me to get in the tub. They are both eleven now and i brought from a reputable Australian Turkish Van Breeder. Both my girls are Black Tortieshell (i think in the US they are called calico?) They are and will continue to be my favourite cat breed. And when i got my previous Van (a boy called Almadhi) the breeder gave me an info sheet that said Vans have two speeds-out flat and flat out- which i found to be so very true even as they get older.

......... January 31, 2022

I adopted two kittens a few months ago. I didn't buy it from a pet house or adopt it from a shelter, my mom's friend's female cat had given birth. At first the kittens definitely looked like they were Turkish van. They both have ginger color patches on their head, and kind of like a line connecting the color to the tail. The tail is completely ginger and thick. Both the kitten had long hair till they were 3 and half months old but now they are 5 months old and they don't have long hair anymore..? 😂 so that makes me doubt if they really are full Turkish van but other than that everything else definitely is the same as said

Ahh I just read that Turkish van cats shed so ig that's why they have less hair rn? It's said that they shed hair in summer and it grows long again in winter and it's almost summer here in India and when I brought them it was November which is winter for us so that figures haha, still dont know if they are full Turkish van tho. I wanna post a picture but there's no option

Pauline January 23, 2022

I am fairly certain I have a Turkish van. He is probably not pure as he was born in a prison! He has all the physical characteristics though perhaps a few more golden markings on his body, but probably not more than 15%. He is not keen on water, but is much more like a dog than a cat. I cannot go to the bathroom alone! He rather likes to lie with his legs in the air, totally chilled out. He loves climbing high up and has always loved to play. He is very sensitive.

Taffie Lackey January 2, 2022

My IPhone has a new update and when I take pictures sometimes it tells me some details of the pictures. every time I take a picture of my Max it tells me by his face structure that he is a Turkish Van. This is the first time I have ever heard of it. I’ve always wondered about what kind of cat he is because of his size. He is a bigger cat, between 20-25 lbs. He also has a lot of the personality traits. I highly doubt that he is full, but I’m curious if he could possibly have a bit of this breed in him? I do have pictures from when he was a kitten and pictures of him currently at about 8 years old, however I am unsure of how to upload pics onto this sight.

Monica Vendsel December 30, 2021

Our two cats are definitely Turkish vans. They love water and love getting up high and knocking things over. Their names are biscuit and waffle. They are real lovers!

Jodi June 22, 2021

I believe my cat is a Turkish van. She was given to me and besides having more Black on her back than typical Turkish vans, everything fits this breed. If she isn’t, what is she?

Jac0b23 November 18, 2021

Do Turkish vans have a flat tail on the back?

nicey2u2 June 21, 2021

My kitten definatly fits this description to a t! Not sure how to post a photo but she definatly has this gene!

Rachel Funk December 2, 2020

I think my cat Leo has part turkish van in his genes. He is very sweet, quiet and friendly. He's very large for his age. I also just discovered that he is curious and eager to get into water. He doesn't meow like my other cat. He opens his mouth to meow and if it's any noise it's barely a squeek. He is adorable and I just love him. I will post a pic if I figure out how?

Bouddicca November 28, 2020

My vet told me my cat is a Turkish van, he is white with a very small amount of red on his ears and tail. He has blue eyes.

Kedisever January 25, 2020

This is my baby... We got him from a shelter...they left him in a trash can by Smith. He is the sweetest and the cutest thing ever. That's why his name is Cutie named by son back then 11 years ago. Cutie has been a joy he is so affectionate and jealous. İt's always so cute how he tries to get your attention. I love him so much. The shelter has told us he was a mix of Turkish van. I know he is not pure. But either way he is beautiful. To bad I can't post any pictures but he is so pretty.

lutece July 16, 2019

Meowth77 said:
Do you think he could be a Turkish van?

21986102-CB21-44EB-B404-E7ADCFAE24EB by Meowth77 posted Jul 15, 2019 at 7:20 PM

AC56DD49-5E1B-4F5A-B2D3-7CFF6081A0CD by Meowth77 posted Jul 15, 2019

A11E19D9-26A9-4352-9D0A-D414682CDFAE by Meowth77 posted Jul 15, 2019 at 7:20 PMat 7:20 PM

What a gorgeous kitty! I would describe your cat as a black and white harlequin domestic longhair. "Harlequin" means a cat that is mostly white with some colored areas. Both harlequin and van patterns are caused by the same white spotting gene that is responsible for almost all other white markings in cats (including "tuxedo cat" markings), and doesn't indicate Turkish Van ancestry. Most cats are not any particular breed.

Potato October 24, 2021

Probably not, I am sorry

Meowth77 July 16, 2019

Do you think he could be a Turkish van?

21986102-CB21-44EB-B404-E7ADCFAE24EB by Meowth77 posted Jul 15, 2019 at 7:20 PM

AC56DD49-5E1B-4F5A-B2D3-7CFF6081A0CD by Meowth77 posted Jul 15, 2019

A11E19D9-26A9-4352-9D0A-D414682CDFAE by Meowth77 posted Jul 15, 2019 at 7:20 PMat 7:20 PM

lutece July 9, 2019

Brandylee22 said:
I have been inquiring the breed of my cat, Foxy. Any input is greatly welcomed and appreciated!

I would describe your beautiful kitty as a black and white domestic shorthair. Your cat's coloring would be described as "van pattern," but this doesn't indicate a genetic relationship to the Turkish Van breed. Van pattern is caused by the same white spotting gene that is responsible for almost all other white markings in cats (including "tuxedo cat" markings), so it doesn't indicate Turkish Van ancestry. Most cats are not any particular breed.

Brandylee22 June 26, 2019

I have been inquiring the breed of my cat, Foxy. Any input is greatly welcomed and appreciated!

lutece May 28, 2019

Salinaaa6 said:
Someone suggested she might be a Turkish van! I adopted her from the shelter though so I guess we will never know ‍♀️

What beautiful markings your cat has! People often think that van pattern longhairs might be Turkish Vans. However, van pattern is caused by the same white spotting gene that is responsible for almost all other white markings in cats (including "tuxedo cat" markings), so it doesn't indicate Turkish Van ancestry. Most cats are not any particular breed.

CatLadyB said:
Could my Marshmallow be a Turkish Van Cat? I'm having a hard time describing her.

Your Marshmallow appears to be a solid white cat with a "kitten cap." Solid white is caused by the dominant white gene, which is different from the white spotting gene that is involved in the van pattern. Solid white kittens may have a small gray or black smudge on the top of the head called a "kitten cap" that often fades as they grow older, but sometimes doesn't fade and persists into adulthood.

Salinaaa6 May 19, 2019

Someone suggested she might be a Turkish van! I adopted her from the shelter though so I guess we will never know ‍♀️

CatLadyB January 27, 2019

Could my Marshmallow be a Turkish Van Cat? I'm having a hard time describing her.

Liz5280 January 19, 2019

I got my girl from a random person off the street for $20 so Im pretty sure she is a mix but at 7 months old she has all of the characteristics of a Turkish Van. Even if she wasnt I couldnt be any happier with her. Ive never thought I would get a kitten from the street but the moment I saw her I couldnt say no. Best decision Ive ever made

Liz5280 February 18, 2020

A year later her Turkish van qualities are coming out more and more, she loves to play in the water, she likes to get up high and knock things over, only sheds 2x a year and when she does it's quite a bit and in the early spring and late fall more so in the spring. I got the dna test done on her because I was curious and it said she is 82% Turkish van. So not full and truthfully I wouldn't have her another way even though she isn't full. she could have none in her and she would still be my beautiful little weirdo♥️

TheCatLdy said:
Is my cat Turkish-Van or a Turkish Van Mix? He has big amber eyes with semi long hair amd fluffy tail and very soft fur like kashmire. His front legs are shorter than other breeds but also large (muscle ). Also, he is just 7 months old but his size is same with my 19 months old tabby cat( he is not a small cat- regular size tabby) I am going to add his pictures. I am thinking he is Turkish van, but what are your thoughts?

There isnt enough white on your kitty's body but hr looks like a huge sweetheart

TheCatLdy October 20, 2018

Is my cat Turkish-Van or a Turkish Van Mix? He has big amber eyes with semi long hair amd fluffy tail and very soft fur like kashmire. His front legs are shorter than other breeds but also large (muscle ). Also, he is just 7 months old but his size is same with my 19 months old tabby cat( he is not a small cat- regular size tabby) I am going to add his pictures. I am thinking he is Turkish van, but what are your thoughts?

Gezilecekyerlercom September 18, 2017

İ live in Van City :) And i have 10(ten) cats. İ Like them. They Like eat and hot water :)

tarasgirl06 September 1, 2017

Goldi said:
I have a turkish van! and he absoltely hates water:D

Bizarrely different cats are great, don't you think?

Goldi September 1, 2017

I have a turkish van! and he absoltely hates water:D

tarasgirl06 August 29, 2017

Interesting and informative article! While I prefer "rescued" cats, I of course admire ALL cats, consider all cats beautiful, and love to learn facts about cats of all kinds!

Ashley January 4, 2020

I rescued my baby from our local shelter when she was just 7 weeks old. I was trying to upload a picture of her but don't know how to???

Anne January 4, 2020

Hi Ashley and welcome to TheCatSite. Are you trying to post a picture in the forums? You can't do that in a comment here but you should be able to in the forums, once you have an account. If you're already a registered member, try asking in the Site Help forum for help.

Turkish Van Cats – 5 Fascinating Things You Should Know