Turkish Van – The Swimming Cat
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The Turkish Van is the only cat known to actually like water. This photo shows Lady McBeth swimming in a Lilly Pond. It should be noted that not all Vans exhibit this unusual trait. Also, Vans don’t particularly like being bathed. (Photo by Jack Reark) |
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Vans like to swim in warm water. This photo shows Tonya Young with her Van “Grandma” Brooke enjoying a cooling dip in the pool. |
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Vans are Working Cats in their native Turkey. They also make excellent photo models since their striking color photographs so well. |
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Vans tend to be the alpha cats in a group. Their strong personalities tend to dominate over mixed breeds. |
Special traits of the breed
Van cats have distinctive personality characteristics. The cat is very intelligent and has a high level of energy.
Some of the unique traits are:
- Vans play fetch with small objects
- Vans react strongly to crumpling papers sounds
- Vans like to climb step ladders
- Vans are highly interested in running water
- Some Vans like to swim in large bodies of warm water
- Vans form strong bonds with one or two people
