Turkish Van cats originated in the rugged  mountains of  Eastern Turkey, not  far  from where the Ark was found on Mt. Ararat.  They come from Van, a city which sits on the shore of the lake that bears the same name.  Because two different ethnic groups have shared the land and region that we know today as Turkey, there has been warring going on for generations.  The Armenians love and cherish the patterned Turkish Van, while the Turkish people only consider the solid White odd-eyed Turkish Van, whom they call the Vankedisi, to be their national treasure.

Both cats are the same, but one being white, masks all other colour.  Patterned Vans can be red, which is the original traditional colour, black, black or brown tabby, as well as cream and blue.  You will also see a combination of these colours in the females making them tortoiseshells.  The pattern is generally only on the head and tail, although you will see random body spots as well.  The rest of the cat is white.

Turkish Vans are very energetic and playful cats, and interactive with their people.  While they can entertain themselves alone, they do much better with their people around to play with them.  They are also stubborn, intelligent and loyal to their owners.  Many play fetch, and you don't have to teach them.  Oftentimes, you will be doing something and your Van will bring you his favourite toy and drop it at your feet and look at you.  That's your cue to throw and your kitty will then run after the toy and bring it right back for more.                                                                                                                                             

Many, but not all Vans enjoy water.  It can run a range from playing in the toilet water (good reminder to always keep the toilet flushed :), to jumping in the tub or shower with you.                                                                                                                             

Vans make great companions and bond closely with their people.  If you can deal with their stubborn wills, loving interactive natures, and energetic playfulness, a Turkish Van might be the right companion for you.