Breed Name: The Turkish Van (also known as the Anatolian Shepherd Dog)
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Coat Length: Short or medium-length hair with a dense undercoat for insulation
Alias(es): Turkish Vantage, Turkish Angora Cat, Turkish Marbled Cat, Turkic Cat
Height: Male cats typically weigh between 8 and 16 pounds; females are slightly smaller
Place of Origin: Turkey
Body Size: Large and muscular with an athletic build
Shedding Level: Moderate shedders due to their double coats
Trainability: Intelligent and independent, they can be trained but require patient and consistent methods
Overview: The Turkish Van is a natural breed that originated from the Lake Van region of Turkey. They are characterized by their semi-longhaired coats with white fur often marked with distinctive colored spots over their head and tail. These cats have a unique swimming ability among feline breeds, enjoying water more than most other cat types. Their personalities are described as active, playful, and affectionate towards their human companions.
