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The Turkish Van Cat: Its Origin, Characteristics, Care, and Price

The Turkish Van, an ancient and proud breed native to Turkey, is a fascinating feline with a rich history. Uncover the origins of this unique cat, explore the intricacies of their care, and discover why they are a beloved companion for many. With their stunning appearance and captivating personality, the Turkish Van has captivated cat enthusiasts worldwide, and it's time to delve into what makes them so special.

Administrator

14 July, 2024

The Turkish Van, also known as the Turkish Van cat, is a native and ancient breed of Turkey. Learn about their origins, how to care for them, and their price.

If you’re a cat lover, you can’t miss the beautiful Turkish Van cat. They are one of the most popular cat breeds today. Let’s explore this breed with Bach Hoa XANH!

1 All About the Turkish Van Cat

Origin of the Turkish Van Cat

Research suggests that the Turkish Van cat has been around for about 5,000 years. Archaeologists have found sculptures and carvings resembling the modern Turkish Van cat on jewelry, decorations, and drawings.

The Turkish Van is a native breed of Turkey. However, it was only recognized by the Cat Association in 1970. To distinguish it from the Turkish Angora cat of England, this breed was named after the region it inhabited, the Lake Van area of the Armenian Highlands in Turkey.

The Turkish Van Cat

Physical Characteristics of the Turkish Van Cat

The Turkish Van cat is quite large compared to other cat breeds. Adult males weigh between 5 and 10 kg, while females weigh between 4 and 7 kg. It takes about 3-5 years for a Turkish Van kitten to reach full maturity.

The head of the Turkish Van cat is relatively round and proportionate to its body. They have large, triangular ears that stand erect on their head. Their long, slender legs enable them to move quickly and easily, even on uneven terrain.

The Turkish Van’s coat is naturally water-resistant due to its single-layered structure of short but thick and smooth fur. They are known for their colorful patterns. About 80% of their body is white, with the remaining 20% featuring colors like red, brown, blue, cream, or tortoiseshell. They are sometimes called “piebald” cats because of their distinctive coloring.

The Turkish Van Cat has a balanced and healthy physique.

Personality Traits

The Turkish Van cat is known for its enthusiastic and energetic personality. They thrive on attention and affection from their owners, so if you decide to adopt one, be prepared to spend quality time with your furry friend.

Despite their energetic nature, Turkish Van cats can be cautious and wary of strangers. They may even use their claws if a stranger attempts to pet them.

Originating from the Lake Van region of Turkey, these cats enjoy playing with water, whether it’s in a sink or a puddle. They are excellent swimmers and are sometimes called “swimming cats.”

The Turkish Van Cat is enthusiastic and energetic.

2 How to Care for a Turkish Van Cat

Feeding Your Turkish Van Cat

Provide a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. Turkish Van cats enjoy eating dry food formulated for cats, which can be purchased from pet stores.

You can also prepare homemade meals, but be sure to consider the cat’s individual health needs. Avoid giving hard food or fish bones to young kittens to prevent choking hazards.

Note: Avoid feeding your Turkish Van cat dairy products like cow’s milk, as these can cause digestive issues and other health problems.

Grooming and Hygiene for Turkish Van Cats

Brush your Turkish Van cat’s coat once a day to remove loose hair.
Bathe your cat every 2-3 weeks, despite their water-resistant fur, to maintain hygiene and prevent skin issues.
Trim their nails weekly and maintain dental hygiene by brushing their teeth regularly with pet-safe toothpaste.

Common Health Issues in Turkish Van Cats

Turkish Van cats generally have robust health, but they may be prone to dental and skin issues, such as fungal infections. Obesity is also a concern, so it’s important to provide a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Additional Care Tips for Turkish Van Cats

Keep your cat’s vaccinations and deworming up to date, and schedule regular vet check-ups every 6-12 months. Only purchase cats from reputable breeders, ensuring they are over two months old and have received their initial vaccinations. If you don’t plan on breeding, consider spaying or neutering your cat around five months of age to improve their overall health and longevity.

The long-haired beauty of a Turkish Van Cat.

3 Buying a Turkish Van Cat

Pricing for Turkish Van Cats

In the Vietnamese market, Turkish Van cats are still quite rare, so they may not be readily available in pet shops. You may need to place an order or search for specialized breeders.
Due to their limited availability, Turkish Van cats can be expensive, ranging in price from 15 million to nearly 40 million VND, depending on their lineage, health, and coat color.

Tips for Buying a Turkish Van Cat

Only purchase from reputable sources, and avoid online scams.
Before buying, carefully examine the cat’s physical characteristics, health, and pricing.

The Turkish Van Cat is a popular choice for pet owners.

Now you know all about the Turkish Van cat! If you’re ready to bring one of these beautiful cats into your life, start your search today.

Frequently asked questions

The Turkish Van cat is a natural breed that originates from the Lake Van region in Turkey. They have a long history and are considered one of the oldest natural breeds, with a distinct appearance and personality.

This cat breed is known for its unique semi-long haired coat, with a distinct pattern of coloring. They have a white body with colored markings on the head and tail, often described as the ‘van pattern’. Their eyes are usually heterochromatic, with one blue eye and one amber eye. Turkish Vans are large, muscular cats with a sturdy build and a plumed tail.

Turkish Van cats are highly intelligent, curious, and playful. They are known for their love of water, often swimming and playing in it. These cats are affectionate and bond closely with their owners, but may be reserved around strangers. They are independent and adaptable, and can make great companion animals.

Grooming is important for this breed to maintain their semi-long coat. Weekly brushing is recommended to prevent matting and remove dead hair. They are generally a healthy breed but may be prone to certain genetic health issues like hip dysplasia and polycystic kidney disease. Regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet are important to maintain their health.

The price can vary depending on the breeder and the cat’s characteristics. On average, you can expect to pay around $800 to $1200 for a well-bred Turkish Van kitten. Show quality cats or those with rare markings may demand a higher price.