CanlıDostum⚡ At a glance
- Adult weight: Male 5–8 kg (11–18 lb) · Female 3.5–6 kg (8–13 lb)
- Life expectancy: 12–17 years
- Activity: High · 2–3 active play sessions a day
- Best suited to: Active homes, owners with time to play
Key facts
| Origin | Türkiye (Lake Van region) |
|---|---|
| Height | Medium–large, muscular |
| Adult weight | Male 5–8 kg (11–18 lb) · Female 3.5–6 kg (8–13 lb) |
| Life expectancy | 12–17 years |
| Activity needs | High · 2–3 active play sessions a day |
| Coat | Semi-long, silky, little undercoat |
| Best suited to | Active homes, owners with time to play |
Approximate ranges based on breed standards; individuals vary.
Temperament
The Van cat is clever, energetic and attached to its owner. Curious and a keen climber — and contrary to the myth, many Van cats love playing with water.
Daily exercise
A high-energy cat: 2–3 active play sessions of 10–15 minutes a day, a cat tree and window perches. Without enough play it can get into mischief.
Feeding
Muscular and active, so quality protein matters; adjust portions after neutering.
Example: a neutered adult Turkish Van at an ideal weight of 5 kg (11 lb) needs roughly 280 kcal a day (RER × 1.2). Work out your own pet's needs with the calorie calculator and check ideal weight with the ideal weight calculator.
Common health problems
- Congenital deafness: more common in blue-eyed white cats; with one blue eye the risk is higher on that side
- Sunburn and skin cancer on white ear tips
- Gum disease
Care tips
- Brush 1–2 times a week; little undercoat means few mats
- Hearing test at the vet if deafness is suspected
- Nets on balconies and windows
- Avoid long periods in direct sun
Frequently asked questions
Do Turkish Van cats really swim?
Many Van cats love playing with water and some swim, but every cat is different; never force a cat into water.
Why do Van cats have different-coloured eyes?
Heterochromia is a common genetic trait in the breed. Blue-eyed white cats have a higher deafness risk, so have hearing checked.
Is the Van cat a protected breed?
The Van cat is a native Turkish breed with conservation programmes. Adopt from reputable sources and microchip your cat.