Turkish Van Cat: Personality, Care, Shedding & Health

Kurze Antwort: The Turkish Van is a large, athletic cat breed best known for the “Van pattern” (color mostly on the head and tail) and a higher-than-average interest in water play. They’re intelligent, energetic, and loyal—often described as “dog-like”—but many prefer sitting beside you rather than being held.

Quick facts (at a glance)

• Origin: Lake Van region (Eastern Turkey); standardized as a pedigree breed in the United Kingdom
• Adult size: Males ~10–20 lb (4.5–9 kg), females ~7–12 lb (3.2–5.4 kg)
• Lifespan: ~12–17 years
• Coat: Semi-long, silky single coat (little/no undercoat); often dries quickly
• Shedding: Moderate
• Energy: High (needs daily play + climbing)
• Typical temperament: Playful, curious, social, vocal, bonds strongly with family
• Not a “classic lap cat”: Many dislike being carried; prefer four feet on a surface

Am besten geeignet für

• Active homes that can provide daily interactive play, climbing space, and companionship
• People who enjoy training, puzzle toys, fetch, or leash work

Not ideal for

• Anyone wanting a very kuschelig, quiet, low-energy lap cat
• Homes with toddlers who may handle cats roughly (many Vans dislike being held)

Rasse-Übersicht

Introduction: Swimming Cat

Die Turkish Van cat is a rare, athletic breed best known for two standout traits: the striking Van pattern (a mostly white body with color mainly on the head and tail) and a stronger-than-average curiosity about Wasser—which is why many people call it the “swimming cat.”

In temperament, Turkish Vans are typically high-energy, intelligent, and playful, often forming strong bonds with their humans and wanting to be involved in whatever is happening at home. They can be very affectionate, but they’re usually not a constant lap cat and many prefer attention on their own terms rather than being carried or held for long periods.

This guide covers the essentials people search for most: personality and behavior, size and coat, shedding and grooming, health concerns, and a clear Turkish Van vs Turkish Angora comparison—so you can decide if this breed fits your lifestyle.

Geschichte der Rasse

Die Turkish Van cat is widely described as a natürliche Rasse associated with the rugged, climatically extreme region around Lake Van in eastern Turkey, where hot summers and cold winters likely favored a strong, athletic body and a coat that adapts seasonally.

From regional cats to a recognized pedigree breed (UK foundations)

Although the breed’s roots are tied to Turkey, the modern pedigree Turkish Van was developed and standardized primarily through breeding work in the Vereinigtes Königreich in the mid-1950s. Multiple breed authorities describe how Laura Lushington and Sonia Halliday brought Turkish cats back to Britain after traveling in Turkey (often cited as 1955, with some records noting 1954).

To strengthen the early breeding program, additional cats were imported from Turkey in later visits (for example, GCCF notes another pair brought back in 1959).

The breed was initially called the “Turkish Cat” in the UK, then later renamed “Turkish Van” to avoid confusion with the Türkisch Angora—a different breed with a distinct look and type.

Recognition timeline

• Mid-1950s (1954/1955): Foundation cats were brought from Turkey to the UK by Laura Lushington and Sonia Halliday, launching the Western breeding program.
• 1969: The breed achieved official recognition/championship status with the UK’s Verwaltungsrat der Katzenfantasie (GCCF) (after years of promotion and development).
• Early 1970s: Turkish Vans were imported into the Vereinigte Staaten, and organized breeding/show efforts gradually expanded.
• CFA show progression: Accepted into Miscellaneous (May 1988) → Provisional (May 1993) → advanced to Championship for the 1994–1995 show season (board decision in Feb 1994).

Rarity and preservation in Turkey

In Turkey, cats associated with the Van region have long held cultural importance. GCCF notes the breed is considered a national treasure and has been preserved with institutional support.

Today, conservation and breeding efforts for Van cats continue at facilities such as the Van Cat Research and Application Center at Van Yüzüncü Yıl University, where programs focus on protecting the population and maintaining characteristics close to the original genetic form.

Note on naming: Outside Turkey, “Turkish Van” typically refers to the standardized pedigree breed; within Turkey, “Van cat / Van Kedisi” may refer to local cats associated with the region (often described differently, including solid-white, odd-eyed cats).

Turkish Van size and athletic build (what they look like in real life)

The Turkish Van is a large, athletic, muscular cat with a powerful frame and broad shoulders. This is a langsam reifende Rasse, oft 3–5 Jahre to fully develop its adult size and muscle.

Why this matters for owners: because they mature slowly, young Turkish Vans often stay “kitten-like” (high energy and playful) longer than many other cats—so consistent nutrition and activity are especially important during those growth years.

Van pattern explained (head + tail color on a white body)

The breed’s signature look is the Van pattern: a mostly white cat with colored markings primarily on the head and tail.

Some standards allow a small amount of extra spotting on the body, as long as it doesn’t overpower the classic Van look. For example:

• CFA permits random body markings up to 15% of the body (excluding head/tail color).
• TICA allows up to 20% of the cat (including head and tail) to be colored with random spotting, as long as the Van pattern remains the overall impression.

This small “standards note” is helpful for readers comparing photos online and prevents confusion when they see Turkish Vans with a tiny extra spot.  

Coat type (single coat) + seasonal changes

Turkish Vans have a semi-long coat with no woolly undercoat, often described in standards as soft/cashmere-like.
The coat also changes noticeably with the seasons:

• Summer: shorter and lighter (can look almost shorthaired in appearance)
• Winter: substantially longer, thicker, and fuller (with more pronounced ruff/feathering)

A commonly noted trait is that the individual hairs can be water resistant, which helps explain why the coat can handle water play better than many breeds.

Tail, finishing details, and eye color

The tail is typically described as a full brush/plume that stays visually dramatic even as the body coat changes seasonally.
Eye colors accepted in standards include amber, blue, and odd-eyed.

Science note (why so much white?): white spotting genetics, simplified

The Van pattern is often discussed as an extreme form of white spotting (piebald)—a developmental effect where pigment cells don’t populate the skin evenly, leaving characteristic white areas. Genetic research has linked white spotting and dominant white phenotypes in cats to variants affecting the KIT locus and its regulation.

Turkish Van vs Turkish Angora (Key Differences)

It’s common to mix up the Türkischer Van und Türkisch Angora because both are Turkish breeds with elegant semi-long coats. The fastest way to tell them apart is pattern + build: Turkish Vans are typically solidly built and muscular with the classic Van pattern (color mainly on head and tail over a mostly white body), while Turkish Angoras are generally small-to-medium, long-bodied, and refined, and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns.

Quick comparison table

How to tell them apart in 10 seconds (for readers)

• Look at the markings:
  If the cat is mostly white with color mainly on head and tail, that strongly signals Türkischer Van.
• Look at the frame:
  A heavier, more powerful build points toward Van; a lighter, long-legged, refined silhouette points toward Angora.
• Look at the coat behavior:
  Van standards emphasize no undercoat und seasonal coat variation, whereas Angora descriptions emphasize a silky, easy-care single coat.

Which one is right for you?

Choose a Türkischer Van if you want a robust, high-energy climber with a strong “interactive” personality and the famous Van pattern (and you don’t mind a cat that may prefer affection without being held).
Choose a Türkisch Angora if you prefer a smaller/medium, elegant, very involved companion with many possible colors/patterns and an easy-care longhair coat.

Verhalten und Persönlichkeit

Temperament snapshot (quick answer):

• Energy level: Very high (needs daily active play)
• Intelligence: Very high (problem-solver; can get mischievous when bored)
• Affection style: Loyal and people-oriented, but usually not a “constant lap cat”
• Trainierbarkeit: Often enjoys fetch, tricks, and even leash training
• Best trait: Interactive, playful, entertaining companion
• Biggest challenge: Boredom → climbing, opening things, getting into trouble

What is a Turkish Van’s personality like?

Turkish Vans are smart, energetic, playful, and intensely curious. They tend to bond strongly with their people and like being involved in daily life—following you from room to room, “helping” with chores, and checking out anything new.

Are Turkish Vans affectionate or lap cats?

They’re usually affectionate in a “near you” way rather than a “on you” way. Many Turkish Vans enjoy cuddling next to you or leaning in for petting, but they often dislike being held or carried for long.

Owner expectation: if you want a cat who sits on your lap for hours, this breed may feel too independent. If you want a cat who hangs out with you all day and plays a lot, they can be perfect.

Intelligence, training, and “dog-like” behavior

Many Turkish Vans show “dog-like” traits:

• Enjoying abrufen.
• Lernen einfache Tricks (sit, high-five, come)
• Doing well with Clicker-Training
• Some tolerate harness/leash training bei langsamer Einführung
  This breed tends to thrive when you give them “jobs” (target training, treat puzzles, obstacle courses).

Vocalization: are they noisy?

Turkish Vans are often communicative, but not always loud. Many “talk” with a range of sounds and may use quiet, unusual tones (some owners describe it as a soft bleat).

Common triggers: boredom, wanting play, wanting access to a room, or wanting you to watch them do something impressive.

Climbing, fearlessness, and the “high places” obsession

They love vertical territory. Expect them to:

• Seek the highest spot in the room
• Patrol shelves or wardrobes
• Jump confidently and explore boldly
  If you don’t provide approved climbing zones, they will choose their own (counters, bookcases, curtain tops).

Social behavior with kids, cats, and dogs

• With kids: Often best with ältere, respektvolle Kinder who won’t grab, squeeze, or carry them.
• With cats: Usually fine with other confident cats, but they may try to be the “boss” in multi-cat homes.
• With dogs: Can do well with calm, cat-friendly dogs when introductions are slow and supervised.

Common behavior challenges (and how to prevent them)

Most issues come from under-stimulation. Prevent problems by:

• Keeping a predictable play routine
• Rotating toys weekly (novelty matters)
• Using puzzle feeders or treat hunts
• Adding vertical space and scratching posts
• Teaching boundaries with training instead of punishment

Turkish Van Shedding & Grooming (How Much Do They Shed?)

Kurze Antwort: Turkish Vans typically shed a moderate amount. Their coat is semi-long but usually doesn’t mat easily because they have a single coat (little to no dense undercoat). Expect the heaviest shedding during seasonal coat changes.

Shedding level — what to expect

• Year-round: light to moderate shedding (you’ll see hair on bedding and brushes, but it’s usually manageable)
• Spring / fall: heavier shedding as the coat transitions (more frequent brushing helps a lot)
• Indoor cats: may shed more evenly all year due to stable indoor temperatures

Good to know: “Single coat” doesn’t mean “hypoallergenic.” Turkish Vans still produce dander and saliva proteins that can trigger allergies.

Brushing routine (the easiest way to reduce shedding)

Goal: remove loose hair before it ends up on furniture (and reduce hairballs).

Empfohlener Zeitplan

• Normale Wochen: Bürste 1× per week
• Shedding seasons: Bürste 2-3x pro Woche
• If your cat hates brushing: tun 2–3 minutes daily instead of a long session

Tools that work well

• Wide-tooth metal comb (best for detangling and removing loose hair)
• Soft slicker brush (good for finishing and shine)

Technique tips

• Brush with the coat direction first, then gently comb areas that trap hair (ruff, belly, “pants,” tail base).
• Keep sessions short and end with a treat to build cooperation.

Matting (usually low risk, but not impossible)

Turkish Vans are less prone to mats than many long-haired breeds, but mats can still form:

• hinter den Ohren
• unter den Achseln
• around the belly and inner thighs

If you find a tight mat, don’t cut it with scissors (skin tears easily). Use a comb to loosen it gradually or ask a groomer/vet for help.

Bathing (rarely needed)

Most Turkish Vans don’t need regular baths. Bathe only if:

• they get into something sticky/dirty
• your vet recommends it
• you’re preparing for a show

If you do bathe:

• use a cat-safe shampoo
• rinse thoroughly (leftover soap can irritate skin)
• dry ears well afterward, especially if your cat enjoys water play

Hairballs and coat health

If you notice frequent hairballs:

• increase brushing frequency
• encourage hydration (wet food, water fountain)
• consider a vet-approved hairball diet or supplement if needed

Seek veterinary advice if vomiting becomes frequent or your cat stops eating—hairballs can sometimes mimic more serious GI issues.

Quick grooming checklist (weekly → monthly)

Wöchentlich

• Brush/comb coat
• Check ears (wax/odor/redness)
• Quick look at eyes and skin (flakes, irritation)

Alle 2-4 Wochen

• Trim nails (or as needed)
• Wipe ears only if visibly dirty (avoid over-cleaning)

Seasonal shedding (spring/fall)

• Brush 2–3× weekly until shedding slows

Pflegeanleitung

Quick care takeaways

• Füttern einer "vollständig und ausgewogen" cat food that matches your cat’s Lebensphase (kitten/adult).
• Track weight using Body Condition Score (BCS), not the scale alone.
• Build daily routines around play + climbing + problem-solving, not just “more toys.”
• Tooth brushing is one of the most effective at-home health habits: daily is best; 3×/week minimum.

Diet (what to feed and how to portion)

Turkish Vans are athletic, fast-moving cats that often stay “kitten-like” longer than many breeds, so their diet should prioritize high-quality protein, appropriate calories, and consistent body-condition checks. (Turkish Vans can take 3–5 Jahre to fully mature.)

Choose a nutritionally complete base diet

• Look for a label nutritional adequacy statement that says "vollständig und ausgewogen" (this means it meets AAFCO nutrient profiles or passed an AAFCO feeding trial).
• Katzen sind obligate Fleischfresser and rely on nutrients found in animal products; broadly, their diet should be higher in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbohydrates compared with many other species.
• For most households, commercially formulated diets are recommended over DIY recipes because homemade diets are easy to imbalance unless a vet (ideally a veterinary nutritionist) formulates them.

Portioning: use BCS (“healthy hug test”)

• A widely used target is BCS 5/9 for cats.
• In an ideal BCS, ribs are easy to feel with a thin fat layer (especially important for long-haired cats where visuals mislead).
• Adjust portions based on BCS trend (monthly checks) rather than constantly switching foods.

Treats & supplements (keep it simple)

• Treats should stay “small and occasional.” Avoid adding supplements unless your veterinarian recommends them—nutrient excess can be harmful.

Raw diet safety note (optional but recommended to include)

Raw pet foods can carry pathogens like Salmonellen oder Listerien, which can affect both pets and people handling the food. If you feed raw, follow strict hygiene and your veterinarian’s guidance.

Exercise (daily activity that fits a Turkish Van)

Turkish Vans tend to be high-energy and athletic, so “exercise” is best framed as interactive play + climbing + chase routines, not just leaving toys out.

What works well

• 2–3 short interactive sessions spread through the day (wand toy, chase, retrieve/fetch-style games).
• Rotate toys and keep a few “special” toys put away to prevent boredom.
• Food-based play counts: use puzzle feeders or treat balls so your cat “hunts” meals.

Safety reminders

• Put away string/cord toys after play to reduce ingestion risk.
• For leash walks, start indoors with a secure harness and go slowly—confidence matters more than distance.

Environment & Enrichment (home setup that prevents stress and boredom)

A Turkish Van-friendly home is a vertical, interactive environment with multiple resource stations—this reduces stress and supports natural behaviors.

Use the AAFP/ISFM-aligned “pillars” as a simple checklist:

1. Safe places (especially elevated)

• Provide at least one retreat spot per cat, often up high (perch, shelf, enclosed bed).

2. Multiple, separated key resources

• Offer multiple locations for food, water, litter, scratching, resting, and play—and keep them separated (e.g., don’t place food next to litter).

3. Predatory play opportunities

• Daily play that mimics hunting + puzzle feeding improves enrichment and reduces boredom behaviors.

Grooming (coat, nails, ears, and dental)

Coat care

• Turkish Vans typically do well with wöchentliches Bürsten, increasing during seasonal shedding. (Their coat is less prone to matting than many double-coated longhairs.)

Dental care (make this a “must-do” habit)

• Cats benefit from tägliches Zähneputzen; 3×/week is the minimum commonly recommended to reduce plaque/tartar buildup.
• Verwenden Sie pet toothpaste only—human toothpaste/baking soda can cause GI upset and may be unsafe if swallowed.

Simple weekly routine

• 1× weekly: quick ear check, nail check, coat brush
• 3–7× weekly: teeth brushing (build up gradually)

Mental Stimulation (prevent “smart-cat chaos”)

Turkish Vans are often bright, curious, and busy—mental enrichment is not optional for long-term behavior health.

High-impact enrichment ideas

• Puzzle feeders and “work for food” devices.
• Short training sessions (touch, sit, come) using treats/toys as rewards.
• Rotate climbing routes: cat tree + wall shelves + window perch (a “cat highway”).
• Keep social interaction frequent but low-pressure—let the cat initiate contact.

If your cat is alone for long hours, increase environmental complexity and consider a compatible companion pet (with careful introductions).

Do Turkish Vans Like Water? (The “Swimming Cat” Reality + Safety)

Kurze Antwort: Many Turkish Vans are more interested in water than the average cat—especially fließendes Wasser—but not every Turkish Van will swim. The “swimming cat” nickname is real in the sense that water curiosity is common, not guaranteed.

What owners commonly see (normal behavior)

Turkish Vans that like water often:

• paw at dripping faucets or try to “catch” the stream
• splash in a sink or shallow tub
• dip toys into water bowls
• follow you into the bathroom and investigate water sounds

What’s nicht required to be “normal”: actually swimming laps. Plenty of Vans just play with water.

Why Turkish Vans may tolerate water better

Turkish Vans are known for a distinctive coat texture and pattern (the “Van pattern”), and many sources describe them as unusually water-tolerant compared to typical cats.

Practical takeaway: they may get less “panicked” around water, but they can still dislike baths or deep water.

Water-play safety checklist (don’t skip this)

Because Vans are athletic, fearless, and curious, set firm rules:

• Toilets: keep lids down (and ideally bathroom doors closed). A curious cat can fall in or play in unsanitary water.
• Buckets / mop pails: never leave unattended—especially with cleaners.
• Bathtubs: don’t leave standing water (slip + surprise immersion risk).
• Pools / ponds: supervise; provide a safe exit ramp/steps if the cat can access the area.
• Hot tubs: keep covered; heat + chemicals are dangerous.
• Chemicals: keep shampoos, cleaners, and essential oils sealed and out of reach.
• Drying ears: if they get wet, gently dry ears to reduce irritation/infection risk (especially if they splash often).

How to offer water play safely (great enrichment)

If your Turkish Van enjoys water, try:

• a cat water fountain (many cats prefer moving water)
• a wide, shallow tray with 1–2 cm of water + floating toy (supervised)
• ice cubes in a bowl (simple, low-risk fun)
• a dripping faucet for a few minutes only while you’re present

Faustformel: shallow + supervised + easy cleanup.

Bathing tips (only if you must)

Most Turkish Vans don’t brauchen baths unless they’re dirty or have a vet/medical reason.
If you do bathe:

• keep water shallow and warm
• use cat-safe shampoo
• towel-dry well and keep them warm until fully dry
• stop if they show stress signs (panting, frantic escape attempts)

Gesundheitliche Belange

Turkish Vans are generally robust, but like all cats they can develop heart, dental, weight, skin/ear, and joint problems. The best “prevention plan” is simple: routine vet exams, weight control, dental care, parasite prevention, and early action when symptoms appear.

Quick emergency signs (don’t wait)

• Open-mouth breathing, rapid/labored breathing, collapse, or blue/pale gums (possible heart/lung emergency).
• Sudden hind-leg paralysis/dragging + intense pain + cold paws (possible feline arterial thromboembolism / “saddle thrombus”).

Common conditions to know (with what to do)

Best ways to keep a Turkish Van healthy: maintain a lean body condition, brush teeth wenn möglich täglich, keep up with parasite prevention and vaccinesbieten joint-friendly enrichment (climbing + safe landings), and see a vet promptly for breathing changes or sudden leg pain/weakness.

Ist diese Rasse das Richtige für Sie?

The Turkish Van is an affectionate, people-oriented breed—but they’re also athletic, curious, and often prefer to stay on their feet rather than be held. Use this quick checklist to see if the Turkish Van matches your household and expectations.

FAQ

Are Turkish Vans good with children?

Turkish Vans can be good with children, especially older, respectful ones who understand their boundaries. They are affectionate and playful, but generally dislike being held or smothered. It is crucial to teach children how to interact gently with them to foster a positive relationship.  

Do Turkish Vans get along mit other pets?

Yes, Turkish Vans are typically social and can get along well with other cats, particularly outgoing ones, and dog-friendly dogs if introduced properly and patiently. They can sometimes be the “alpha cat” in multi-cat households.  

Are Turkish Vans stimmlich?

Yes, Turkish Vans are quite vocal and enjoy communicating with their owners. However, their voices are generally quiet, sometimes even described as sounding like a sheep.  

Are Turkish Vans hypoallergen?

No, Turkish Vans are not considered hypoallergenic. Despite their single-layer coat, they still produce dander and shed, which can trigger allergies.  

Can Turkish Vans be left alone?

Turkish Vans can handle being left alone for short periods, but they are highly social cats who thrive on interaction and companionship. If left alone for too long, they can become bored or lonely, potentially leading to excessive meowing or destructive behaviors. Providing plenty of enrichment, such as puzzle toys and scratching posts, can help keep them content while you are away. Having another pet they get along with can also provide companionship.  

Do Turkish Vans like Wasser?

Yes, Turkish Vans are famously known for their love of water, earning them the nickname “Swimming Cat”. Many enjoy playing with running water, dipping their toys in water bowls, and some will even swim. This unique trait is a defining characteristic of the breed.  

Are Turkish Vans good hunters?

Yes, Turkish Vans are particularly good hunters. This skill likely developed from their ancient, natural origins in rugged terrain, honing their sharp instincts and agility. They possess a strong prey drive and are adept at catching anything that piques their interest.  

Are Turkish Vans good indoor cats?

Yes, Turkish Vans can be excellent indoor cats, provided their significant needs for enrichment, play, exercise, and companionship are met. They benefit greatly from cat trees, perches, and high-up walkways to support their athletic nature. Safe outdoor access, such as a catio or supervised leash walks, can also support their mental and physical well-being.  

Bonus Fakten

The Turkish Van is a breed steeped in history and unique characteristics, offering several fascinating insights:

The “Thumbprint of Allah”

Some Turkish Vans possess a small, distinctive colored mark, often red, located between their shoulder blades. According to local legends, this mark is believed to be the “thumbprint of God” or “Allah,” a divine touch that blessed the cat. This cultural belief underscores the breed’s revered status in its native land.  

Noah’s Ark Legend

An enduring legend suggests that ancestors of the Turkish Van were passengers on Noah’s Ark. Upon the ark’s landing on Mount Ararat in Eastern Turkey, these cats reportedly swam ashore to dry land. The divine touch that blessed them is said to have caused their white coats to develop the signature colored markings on their heads and tails. This mythical origin highlights the breed’s ancient lineage and its deep connection to the Lake Van region.  

Geschützt National Treasure

In its native Turkey, the Turkish Van is considered a national treasure and a symbol of good luck. Recognizing its rarity and cultural significance, the Turkish government has officially protected the breed and established breeding programs at local universities to expand its bloodline. This protective measure significantly limits the export of purebred Turkish Vans, contributing to their rarity outside of Turkey.  

Remarkable Dexterity

Beyond their intelligence, Turkish Vans are noted for their remarkable dexterity. They are known to be capable of manipulating objects, such as opening doors and even turning on sink faucets, further demonstrating their problem-solving abilities and curious nature.  

Unusual Vocalization

While vocal, the Turkish Van’s voice is often described as quiet and distinct, with some likening its sound to that of a sheep. This unique vocal characteristic adds another layer to their charming personality.  

Less Sleep Than Average Cats

Unlike most domestic cats that typically sleep up to 17 hours a day, Turkish Vans are known to sleep significantly less. Their high energy and constant alertness mean they are often “on” and ready for interaction, contributing to their reputation as active and engaging companions.  

The Alpha Katze

In multi-cat households, the Turkish Van often tends to be the “alpha cat”. Their fearless and assertive nature allows them to establish dominance, which is an important consideration when introducing them to other feline companions.  

Referenzen

Pond, Grace, ed. (1972). The Complete Cat Encyclopedia. London: Walter Parrish Intl. ISBN 0-517-50140-6. Diese Tertiärquelle reuses information from other sources but does not name them.

“Turkish Van Cats”. Retrieved 8 April 2014. This Tertiärquelle reuses information from other sources but does not name them. This source, in some places, conflates the Turkish Van breed and the Van cat landrace.

Vella, Carolyn; Shelton, Lorraine; McGonagle, John; Stanglein, Terry (1999), Robinson's Genetics für Katzenzüchter und Tierärzte (4th ed.), Oxford: Butterworth Heineman, p. 253, ISBN 0-7506-4069-3

Lushington, Laura (1963), “The Swimming Cats”, Animals, 1 (17): 24–27, archived from the original on 2 August 2014, My photographer and I were given special permits visit Van by air, for two days and two nights (…) Now at least I have been to Van, in Eastern Turkey, and seen with my own eyes the ancient city of Van and the glorious Lake Van

"Anerkannte und zugelassene Rassen in der WCF". WCF-Online.de. Essen, Germany: World Cat Federation. 2009. Archived from the original on 8 August 2014. Retrieved 13 February 2013.

“Turkish Van”. PetMD.com. Retrieved 17 July 2021.

Rex, Abyssinian and Turkish Cats, by Alison Ashford and Grace Pond, ISBN 0-668-03356-8

Turkish Van Cat Club, Van Cat Chat, No. 5, Winter 1985/1986

“Turkish Van”. TICA.org. Retrieved 30 September 2024.

Mikkola, Salla (4 June 2021). “Reliability and Validity of Seven Feline Behavior and Personality Traits”. Animals. 11 (7): 7. doi:10.3390/ani11071991. PMC 8300181. PMID 34359119.

“Turkish Van”. Tägliche Pfoten. Retrieved 17 July 2021.

Hart, Robert (2010). Hart’s Original Petpourri. Vol. 1. Langdon Street Press. p. 4. ISBN 9781934938621. Hart cites a Katzenfantasie magazine article as his source.