## The only cat "that loves water"

**Myth**: all cats hate water.

**Exception**: **Turkish Van**.

**Turkish breed**:
- Origin Lake Van (Turkey).
- Natural swimmers.

Let's see.

## The history

**Origin**: **Turkey, Lake Van region**.

**Ancient**:
- Thousands of years.

**Job**:
- Fish hunters.
- Swimmers.

**Recognition**:
- 1969: GCCF.

## Physical characteristics

**Size**: medium-large.

**Weight**:
- Males: 5-9 kg.
- Females: 3.5-6 kg.

**Coat**:
- Semi-long.
- "**Van Pattern**": white with red/colored markings on the head and tail.

**Lifespan**: 12-17 years.

## The "Van pattern"

**Only where**:
- Head: colored patch.
- Tail: colored.
- Rest of the body: white.

**Genetics**:
- Specific "spotting" gene S.

## The love for water

**Surprising**:
- Loves to swim.
- Plays with faucet.
- Dives in pools.

**Origin**:
- Adaptation to Lake Van.
- Hunting fish.

## The character

**Affectionate**:
- Deep bonding.

**Energetic**:
- Very active.

**Intelligent**.

**Moderately vocal**.

## The care

**Coat**:
- Weekly brushing.

**Exercise**:
- 45-60 min/day.

## The health

**Generally robust**.

**Predispositions**:
- HCM.

**Lifespan**: 12-17 years.

## The cost

**Purchase**:
- 1,500-3,000 €.
- Rare breed.

## For whom it's...

**Suitable for**:
- Those who love unique cats.
- Active families.

## The truth

The **Turkish Van** is a **unique breed**:

✅ **Loves water**.

✅ **Distinctive pattern**.

✅ **Energetic character**.

✅ **Robust health**.

❌ **Rare**.

**Investment**: 1,500-3,000 €.

**Benefit**: 12-17 years of "swimming" companionship.

A breed that defies every feline stereotype.