Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is a medium-sized cat breed with a wedged head, muscular long body, and striking amber or blue eyes. They are known for their “van” like coat pattern.
Breed Profile
Height
10 - 14
Inches
Weight
15 - 20
Pounds
Life Span
15 – 17
Years
Health
health
Diabetes
What is it?:
Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot properly produce or respond to the hormone insulin. This increases the level of glucose in the blood.
Clinical signs
The clinical symptoms of this condition may include -
Increase in urination
The cat may start losing weight
Increase in thirst
Vomiting
Weakness in the body
Poor quality of the coat
Muscle wasting
Treatment
The treatment for diabetes is to give insulin injections to the cat twice a day or once a day depending on the results. In some cases, oral medication is given but it is said to be less effective, injections are preferred over medications.
Eligible vet bill
$1,000
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://spotpet.com/spot-sample-policy.pdf for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
health
Feline Upper Respiratory Infection
What is it?:
Feline Upper Respiratory Infection is a condition where the cat has similar symptoms to that of a cold, but can be more serious. It’s caused by different viruses or bacteria. It targets the nose, throat, and sinuses rather than the lungs.
Clinical signs
The clinical symptoms of this condition may include -
Runny nose or sneezing
Cough and congestion
Fever
Ulcer around eyes, nose, and mouth
Difficulty in breathing
Lack of appetite
Lethargy
Difficulty swallowing
Treatment
An Upper Respiratory Infection can be treated at home generally if the symptoms are mild. But in case of discharge through the nose or colored eyes, the vet may recommend antibiotics. In case of congestion, steam treatment may be provided 2-3 times a day to clear the blockage. Some treatments can involve
Medications
Fluids through an IV
Fluid therapy in the form of intravenous or subcutaneous fluids may be recommended for dehydrated cats.
Eligible vet bill
$300
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://spotpet.com/spot-sample-policy.pdf for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
Personality
Active
The Turkish Van is an active and playful cat breed that loves to hang out around the house. They can also be a little clumsy and make their presence known by sometimes toppling things over.
Intelligent
They are an extremely intelligent and trainable cat breed. They like to stimulate their brain through various plays. They can also be taught to perform some tricks.
Affectionate
They are a loving and affectionate cat breed, but this does not always mean they are cuddlers. They generally do not like to be held for a long time. They are great silent companions who love to be pet.
Lifetime Care
Coat
The Turkish Van has a single coat that is medium length. The coat is dense, very soft, and also water resistant.
Colors
Their coats are generally white with colored markings on the head and tail which may be red, black, blue, tabby, tortoiseshell, or any other color.
Hypoallergenic
No
Grooming
The Turkish Van has a single medium-length coat that does not shed a lot. Their coat needs weekly brushing to maintain its quality. Their nails also need to be trimmed occasionally. They may need an occasional bath if they have white fur.
Training
The Turkish Van can be extremely trainable as they are intelligent. They respond well to clicker training as it can stimulate their brain and can also help them bond with their family. Rewarding them with treats they like is also a good way to train them.
Turkish Van: Introduction to the Breed
The Turkish Van has its origin in Central and southwest Asia. These cats are an ancient breed but are considered rare even in their place of origin. Original van cats were simply called "van cats' ' because of a lake and a city in the area called Van. The first of this breed arrived in England in 1955. They were originally called Turkish cats but later changed to Turkish Van due to the confusion with Turkish Angora.
Turkish Van Physical Characteristics:
Different colored spots on the head and tail
Long body
Muscular cat
Amber or blue eyes
Turkish Van is best suited for pet owners:
Who wants a playful pet
Who has time for their cat
Who wants an active pet
Who does not want a cuddly pet
Things to know before deciding to own a Turkish Van
The Turkish Van may be an affectionate pet, but they do not like to be held and are not great cuddlers.
They typically require a lot of attention and do not do well if left alone as they have active and playful personalities.
Their coat may not shed a lot but Turkish Van with white fur will need an occasional bath to maintain their coat.
Do Turkish Van cats like to swim?
The Turkish Van has a waterproof coat which helps them in water. Unlike other cat breeds, they love to swim and splash around.
How rare is a Turkish Van cat?
According to various statistics only 100 cats are born in the United States each year, and this makes them one of the rarest cat breeds.
Conclusion
The Turkish Van is an active cat breed that loves to spend time with its family and run around the house. They are also great swimmers thanks to their waterproof coats. The Turkish Van may not be a lap cat but that does not mean they are not affectionate. They love to spend time sitting right next to their owners being pets. They may also require attention from their family. If you are looking for a curious active pet that will adore you, then this is the one!
Happy Mood and Health to your Cat and Lots of Purrrss to you!
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