Turkish Van Cat Personality Traits & Facts

[@nightowls7324]

This video was uploaded August 31, 2018. Little did I know then, that my heart would be crushed merely 2 months later when he passed away on November 3, 2018. This was his last time outside on his leash. 9 days later, I found a tick engorged in the top of his neck. I pulled it out. It was the only tick he ever had. About a week later he got an ear infection. Being so sensitive to his every "off" behavior, I rushed him to the vet when I found a bunch of brown stuff and gunk. That was the beginning of my nightmare. 6 Vets later, he passed away from life threatening Anemia. I had felt forced to put him down when I felt I had no other options. I will never be the same after that. His story will be discussed on another channel when I feel I'm strong enough to do it. It is now Dec 21, 2018 and I still can't put the pieces together, or talk about him without breaking down. I will update this channel soon when the videos are done. My warning to you all is #1 - When your cat gets a tick, get him to a vet asap, save the tick, and get him treated. That's scenario 1 that may have killed him. #2 - Never EVER allow your cat or dog to be given CONVENIA antibiotics. It is my strongest suspicion that that is exactly what killed baby Chan. He was unnecessarily given that shot by a Vet who claimed it worked for ear infections. Anemia was found AFTER the shot was given and he progressively got worse. Please see the Facebook page "Convenia Adverse Effects". I found thousands of stories of people whose otherwise healthy pets died shortly after being given the shot. Have your vets write on the chart, "NO CONVENIA". Please, I beg of you, write this down so you don't forget. I can never get my baby back again and he was only 12 when he died. That's far too young. Hundreds of thousands of animals have died after the Convenia drug was administered and vets deny it because they're making a ton of money off it. Eventually they will make money off the multiple tests that they will push on you, as you unknowingly become more and more confused as to what is wrong with your pet. In the end, the euthanasia money will be in their pockets as you are lost in devastating pain from feeling like you couldn't save them. Trust me on this. Remember that drug. If anyone ever suggests it to you, run. And find another vet.

[@MIrwin-wf9xo]

So sorry for your loss 😢 beautiful Van & thank you for your video.

[@nightowls7324]

@@MIrwin-wf9xo Thank you, Mary. It's hard to watch this video. His loss has changed my life. While I got another kitty, and she is what I presume to be an all-white Turkish Van or Angora, I am still broken hearted. I will probably get another male just like him if I can find one.

[@KhanleGrand]

I'm so sad now. RIP.

[@meggalicious1]

I am so sorry for your loss. I lost a male Van (Big Papa) in August to what the vet thinks was a sudden blood clot. (He was only 3; he got sick and died three days later while being given fluids at the vet's office.) Last week, I found a tripod Van at a local rescue and brought him home immediately. Though he's of course not the same cat and I will always miss Papa, it's so comforting to experience their similar behaviors and personalities--a male Van might be just what you need. Take care and sending you good energy. Thanks for this beautiful video--I hope to teach my new Van (as yet unnamed) to walk on a leash!

[@ImDanny916]

I'm sorry about your loss. My Turkish Van (Lizzie) of 12 years old has also recently passed away in January and it absolutely crushed us at home!

[@inkmage4084]

I had a Van cat, he passed away in 2016, old age. He was pretty huge, people often thought he was a little dog, it was funny because he behaved like a dog, he followed me around everywhere, even to the store. ALWAYS wanted to go outside in the rain, and would play in the snow during winter. He didn't like other cats, but got along with dogs.

[@Victoria-mb1pr]

Yeah my boy was so lovely when I was a kid he used to walk me to school and he was so big he weighed nearly 10kgs he was massive. And so soft. I have never felt anything softer. My cat died at 13 from old age as well. He died 20 years ago and he was my cat when I was a child. He was so loving and beautiful.

[@basilcarroll9729]

Our last turkish van died oct 9th 2023 we miss her very much her name was bluey she was almost 18 what a wonderful cat she was! Your cat reminds me of her.

[@poppybell8217]

Awwww BLUEY is such a sweet name

[@pianobysarochka728]

Today my Dad brought me a baby Turkish van cat and I'm really excited to pet her 🥰

[@alone_sh4t]

I have a van cat 😁

[@mohammadaly123]

Lucky

[@Bella-on5yv]

@@alone_sh4t me too❤️😭 he is sooo intelegent and prettyy😩💗

[@alone_sh4t]

@@Bella-on5yv 😃😃

[@Bella-on5yv]

@@alone_sh4t do you have a cat ?

[@basilcarroll9729]

He is beautiful.

[@mumblrr]

My Turkish van is sooo sweet. He loves to play but is also super lazy and loves to sleep all day. He's the softest thing and doesn't shed much throughout the year especially since we regularly brush him. He's super smart and knows when we're about to leave the house etc. and is very attached to his closest family members and will meow loudly when he misses us :(

[@rysentertainingentertainme5847]

I can sall all the same for mine. Awesome!

[@nightowls7324]

They really are the most amazing breed of kitty children. I love them to pieces and miss my boy tremendously. I'm blessed to have my girl now, but my boy was, and will always be my little soulmate.

[@jamielynn7059]

This sounds just like my turkish van, he is lazy all day but playful when played with, and follows me everywhere I can't even leave.

[@gayatridamale6397]

I found out today that my cat is a Turkish van. My brother rescued her when she was a little kitten.. now she is 4 years old..and she is fantastic 💖

[@loralieisa]

All my cats found me-I have 3. One looks like she may have some Van ancestry. All she need is some extensions for her tail and a blue eye contact.

[@otizev]

I don't wanna be "the ennoing" one lol but probabilly he is not a turkish van, this is a very rare breed (not a breed that u find in the street), I think he is "just' a "normal" domestic cat with medium hair and bicolor. And sorry if I wrote something wrong i'm not fluent in english

[@JazTheKiller]

@@otizev i would like to counter this respectfully. I have a Turkish van mixed with Turkish angora. My vet has confirmed. She is pure white and nearly 19 years old. I found her roaming around near my old apartment building when she was 6 years old. Her name is Mischief but her nickname is Grandma cause of her personality and age. Im guessing she was a show cat of some sort that got free or someones pet who got out.

[@otizev]

@@JazTheKiller wow! Very nice. So, yes, things like this can happen, indeed. Is just unlikely.

[@JazTheKiller]

@@otizev yup! Sometimes you just win the lottery. I am so lucky to have my cat. Its been my honor to habe her for past 13 years. Also Turkish van amd angoras rarely breed so to find one wondering around spayed and unfortunately declawed just goes to show anything can happen. She jumped into my arms and has been part of the family since

[@chromosomehaver6620]

I recently adopted an overweight Turkish van. Very nice cats

[@mademoiselle-valery]

He is gorgeous. I am in love. ❤

[@mistqlette4037]

I have a Turkish van, I got him for free since his owner didn’t really want him so we took him in. For anyone looking for a Turkish can cat, they are SUPER affectionate and loving. They are the softest thing you will ever touch Males have shorter snouts and are bigger, females are the opposite Ticks can be a lot and my cat even got a infection and u have to brush their fur a lot cause it can get matted Very lively and fun Meows are kinda high pitched If one of ur guests is scared of cats, have good luck cause they love new people

[@wheeliumharber]

Glåcii The Pastelish Angel :3 I also have one. One thing I have noticed is that most cats run away when the doorbell rings and strangers walk in. My cat runs to the door and greets whoever it is.

[@mistqlette4037]

Same with my cat! :3

[@annic8344]

mistqlette exactly like my boy Tommy !!

[@naregkeusseyan8996]

Lol it's Armenian cat not turkish

[@mcvibe5812]

@nightmoon dog So did I lol

[@joelchin7526]

my sweet St. Jude is a van, found her 6 weeks old in West TN, Now at 2 years she is 7 or 8 pounds, very small and light which I hear is typical of female cats in general. Lots of personality, diva energy, proud and hates to be laughed at. Loves to be praised, I shoulder trained her around 1 year of age and she enjoys riding around on my shoulder while I do chores around the house. Not much interest in water, but she drinks A LOT throughout the day and likes ice cubes in her bowl :)

[@CatManMini]

I am Cat Man, and I am a Turkish van, too!

[@Cosmictheorist80]

Oh no! So sorry about your beautiful cat! We adopted from the shelter and had no idea it was a Van, the paperwork said “tabby”... but he’s a Van for sure. And so funny-he gets mad when I don’t give him attention, and loves to go outside. I hope you get another baby soon!! Never had a cat so your videos have really helped!!

[@a846810]

I love how you show affection to your cat ♡

[@nightowls7324]

I would do anything to hug him again. Cherish your babies. Thank you so much for watching.

[@allsearpw3829]

Hi , we to have a VAN , REALLY LOVES HIS FOOD , our daughter took him on as a rescue , from the cats protection and he gets on very well with our other two .

[@tamirbaruch5737]

He is beautiful and lovely 💖

[@nightowls7324]

Thank you for your kind comment. I miss him dearly every single day. ❤

[@izzo3262010]

I have a 2 year old turkish van looks very similar to him . He’s already 12 lbs. so smart . Very independent strong and loving

[@nightowls7324]

They're strong as an ox, let me tell you-- especially the boys! My girl is very prissy and not as strong but when it's time to clip her nails, she turns into the devil and finds the strength of an army to try to kick my butt!

[@izzo3262010]

@@nightowls7324 lmaoooo

[@izzo3262010]

@@nightowls7324 my guy is 1 year old still intact taking him this week to get neutered. He’s in agony poor guy should of did him a few months ago . Clawing like crazy and spraying . Planned on breeding him but did not work

[@nightowls7324]

@@izzo3262010 Awe, the poor thing. I hope he's feeling well and good, and back to himself in no time. ❤

[@Victoria-mb1pr]

I miss my boy so much. Ur boy is very similar markings to mine. Felix was my cat from when I was 3 to 16 and he was the best cat I could have asked for. He was so beautiful and soft and loving. I couldn't have been raised with a more loving patient cat. I miss him dearly even though it's been 20years. We were so lucky to have had him.

[@nightowls7324]

I know what you mean, Vicki. My baby has been gone for over 2 years and I think of him constantly. He was my world. Maybe he is playing with baby Felix. We will see them again in heaven some day. ❤

[@mcvibe5812]

My family and I got a Turkish Van and a Turkish Angora for free from some people that had too many kittens, but we are so glad and lucky to have them. Our Turkish Van is 5 months old now, and he also has the "Thumb Print of God" on his right shoulder. He is mostly white with a couple of bigger orange spots down his back, not as much as your cat, but he has a little more orange on him than a "true vans body." He also loves water, he sometimes jumps in the tub after our showers and sits in the water and dips his paws in and licks it from his paws (he got our Angora doing it too), recently I caught him in the toilet tryna get the water. He loves loves cuddles and attention from me (I mostly took care off him when he first got with us), and now he's starting to warm up to everyone else in the house. He's very vocal when he's hungry or wants attention/love. It took him a little bit to warm up to us, but now he's settled in just fine with our Turkish Angora and us. We were very surprised to find out we got both a Turkish Van and Turkish Angora. During playtime our Van has mad hops, is very fast, and he also plays fetch. He also gets along with my Grandma's dog that's been with us, he was chilling in her kennel with her, and they play with each other through the bars of her cage. Both of them were also very good at the vet when we got them their shots. Our Turkish Angora is brown/black and 7 months old now. And I'm so sorry for your loss, I understand the pain of losing a family member. Edit: But quick note, after reading a comment about the shelter marking down her cat as a Tabby, they didnt write him down as a Turkish Van because they i quote "the fanciest cats we've seen are persians, all we know are short haired and long haired." Not sure where I was going with that, just wanted to make a note of it

[@nightowls7324]

I'm so sorry it took a long time to respond to you. You are SO BLESSED to have a Van. They are the most wonderful babies ever. There is nothing like them. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@homegirl44]

In late 2019 I bought a kitten from the shelter labeled as an American or British shorthair. As she grew I realized she was not a shorthair cat and her features were unlike any cat I've owned before. I punched in her physical traits and immediately saw photos of cats that look just like her called Turkish vans. I read up on them and literally every personality trait that's associated with vans my baby girl had. She loves water, super active, loves to chase and fetch things, she doesn't like being held or cuddled, I mean EVERYTHING. Apparently these cats are considered rare in the US. I can't believe she turned out to be a Turkish van!

[@nightowls7324]

Yes, they're rare in theory, because there's so few, if any breeders around the USA. Breeders don't consider mixed breeds to be Vans. They believe that only pure, pedigree Vans deserve the title. But I look at it like this. When someone has a German Shepherd, and it's mixed, are you not allowed to call it a Shepherd? So that kills the theory that we cannot call them "Vans." We know their traits and I will never call my baby a "Van-alike." That's like calling a human a "person-alike." Pfft! Enjoy your beautiful baby. You're so blessed. 🐈

[@talesia]

my kitty is half Turkish van, has the thumbprint of God spot etc. But because he is mixed he has two green eyes. he has many of the characteristics you discuss. Especially the feet nibbles when he wants to play and I don't or when he want me to hang up the telephone. Me talking on the phone irritates him to no end. computer time not so much because he sits in my lap and watches. He will be one year in August 2019. I never let him go outside. I did leash train him inside and considered it but decided against it because there are a lot of dogs near by. Also my other cat lived 17 years, he was a Manx, and I never let him go outside. I think the key to longevity is an active indoor life with lots of windows to look out. I've been fortunate as both my houses have sun room and screen porch. So very, very sorry for your loss.

[@Dmtmindset222]

Thank you

[@jamesrogalski2085]

He is gorgeous! And you have beautiful hands and a lovely voice. I used to do at home nursling with my wife as she was a nurse too. On one trip by myself to do a wound dressing I saw a flash of black and white in front of my car on the side of the road. I slammed on the brakes so hard that I flattened one of my front tires. Got out and there in on the side of the road inches from my tires was a bitty little kitten. Even though I knew I wasn't allowed to have a kitten in our apartment I brought Miss Cassidy home. She must have been a Turkish Van because if she heard water of any kind running she had to be in it. Patricia and I never had a chance to shower alone after that day. Eventually the manager of the apartment complex forced us to find a home for her. Fortunately my boss adopted her and she lived to be 24 years old and got spoiled rotten! Two years later my wife died and I moved, but stayed in contact with Robin and Cassidy. I always received photographs of holidays with Cassidy as the star. And my nursing supervisor never had to take a shower or bath alone again, as long as Cassidy was alive.

[@rysentertainingentertainme5847]

Gorgeous. That must have been an awesome experience for both of you!

[@nightowls7324]

Is that your baby in your profile photo? How absolutely adorable!

[@TheOceangirl57]

Thank you for your video of your beautifull kitty! I'm so sorry for your loss. Its clear to me that your cat had a wonderful life with you. I recently rescued a Turkish Van and your video helped me a lot. thanks again. Much love

[@nightowls7324]

I'm grateful to you for the kind words. It's hard to even watch the videos but I often do, I guess to somehow feel close to him again. If I can help you with any questions you have about Vans, please let me know. God bless. You are so lucky to have found one. I've been looking for 8 months for one that looks like Baby Chan and still can't find one near me.

[@NewNewWorld]

Beautiful cat…thank you for the video…so so sorry for your loss….also wondering if he had ever hairball issues…thanks again

[@nightowls7324]

Yes. He always had hairballs. Thanks so much for the kind words.

[@marilynbinion2053]

I just saw your video today. I was interested in it because I have what I believe is a Turkish Van, but he is long haired, so I am trying to clarify that he is not an Angora Van. Everything you said about you sweet boy's personality is like mine. Their love and devotion is just incredible. Mine is just two years old and I adopted him at about seven weeks. I so understand how you feel and why you are so heartbroken. Thank you, despite your loss and pain, sharing what happened and warning about the drug. You have no doubt saved the lives of many Vans, having the courage to share your story. Perhaps you can take comfort that your beautiful Van will help so many others. All the information you shared about his illness I have taken to heart and will use in the care of my Van. And I believe cats reincarnate and come back to us. Consider checking cat rescue places frequently over the next year. Check out the babies AND adult cats. Be patient. Keep looking. When he sees you, he will know and leap into your arms. Very best wishes.

[@nightowls7324]

Thank you for the kind words. That meant more to me than you probably realize. Next week will be 3 years since he passed. It's just like yesterday. I have his picture saved on my Screensaver on my phone home screen. I'll never let him go. 2 weeks after he passed I got a female Van mix. She is very loving but a very different temperament and so different than he was. The trust took a long time to build and I do love her. She sits on my chest every night at bed time and stares at me waiting for her cookies. My boy didn't do that but he did need to be on my lap every night, and he followed me everywhere. He was my little soul mate. I believe I saw him the night he died. I've never been more devastated in my life. Your words will stick with me. And some day I would like to get another orange and white boy just like him. As for breeds, there is no "true Van" unless they come straight from the breeder (and even some of them may not be 100% pure pedigree-- though they will say they are.) Vans are known to have long hair. There are breeders who automatically will tell people they don't have Vans, as they only allow their own cats to be called Vans, while everyone else is told to call theirs "Van-alikes." I cut that down fast. You don't hear German Shepherd owners saying they're "Shepherd-alikes" and I just won't pacify the bullies. Chan was indeed a Van, and I know he was mixed with something else but I'm not really concerned with what. He was always known as my baby Van. If your baby exhibits the traits and similar characteristics, you probably do have a Van mix like Chan and my girl Seraphina. They're the best cats on earth. Thank you again. If you're on Facebook, look for a group for Turkish Vans. It's great. You get to see Vans from all over the world. They're such loved babies.

[@glittergalaxy4362]

Ya yumuş yumuş kabarık tüylü canım benim ya çok güzel 😻❤️💖

[@katiegrundle9900]

rip for your beautiful cat. im learning about the vans. i have a black turkish angora.

[@gsandy5235]

Our TV loves all people.

[@dawnlapka2433]

OMG! My Turkish Van did the same thing! The vet said it's a genetic trait. I cooked things. Bubba had food allergies! Pretty cool 👌 to know that mine wasn't the only one. Also Maine Coones have food Allergies, just so if you ever want to adopt one of those, because you would love to raise one after having this guy. He is adorable! What a handsome boy!

[@nightowls7324]

Thanks so much. Did your Bubba pass away, Dawn? What was the genetic trait that your vet was referring to?

[@dawnlapka2433]

Yes, Bubba passed away from natural causes. We raised kitties with my kids for 4H. Bubba's Gene trait was a cap on his head like a yamaka, first of all, which is known for the Turkish Van, and second, they're very interested in learning experiences. They make very good service animals for those who may experience seizures or brain injuries, and still want to travel, because they have no problems with personable qualities and approachability. However, they are very protective when they need to be like many dogs. Only, it's a cat.

[@nightowls7324]

@@dawnlapka2433 I'm so sorry for your loss. Yes, my current Van has the cap on her head, and she's a quick learner. She also bites randomly from over stimulation which baby Chan (in the video) never once did. Did Bubba ever bite?

[@dawnlapka2433]

@@nightowls7324 no, Bubba never was a biter but my Callie, a Maine Coone, was. She was frequently overstimulated. Sometimes large breed kitties get that overstimulated feeling and they just can't control it. What helped Callie was the calm of a buddy. He came home to me with animal gender dysphoria, which is little known condition. It means that he was neutered too early and didn't seem to be able to recognize that he didn't need to be doing anything about his "girlfriend" which was Callie, so I even tried renaming him a couple times. He didn't want to STOP his bullying of the larger kitty, so I had no choice but to re-home both of them. It was for the best. But she was a great Mamma ❤️💕💞.

[@danushaeranga4702]

This makes me so sad..... My Turkish van died yesterday......

[@nightowls7324]

I'm so sorry, Danusha. It is the most devastating thing I've ever been through. I know the pain. I find it hard to even watch this video. I probably will not ever feel the same until I have another "Baby Chan".

[@JennelleShipman92]

I'm so sorry D:>

[@hasansayin8793]

f

[@nala3038]

@Aedin Ridmash what a fucked up thing to say, good lord!

[@stef1074]

He's gorgeous. And what a tail !!!

[@nightowls7324]

Yes, he was. Thank you for you comment.

[@claudiaz5016]

I adopted such a kitty. She is very friendly. Likes people, but she also scratched herself. Had fleas and worms. I thought maybe a new home was due to stress, but no. I advise you to check the fur and poop. He's acting normally now. A very vocal cat. The pretty girl has a beautiful white triangle on her head. And beautiful velvet fur 😍 She loves to play before eating.

[@emmapariera4508]

Aren't these rare ?. So cool you have this cat🥰😺

[@TopgunOD]

Watching this with my Van on my lap hehe ❤

[@nightowls7324]

Awwe, please give your Van a smootch on the head for me. 😘

[@kaizaann]

Your so lucky it’s m dream cat 🥺

[@rescuedangel]

I can understand your pain..

[@coraleen3105]

@night owls Your loss has been a while now, hope yoh are doing better now. I lost my feline soulmate in 2015 as well. She was my Angel for 20 years. I'm not sure that you will find the same buddy again. But you've already had the cat of your dreams, just like me. I feel grace for the time with her. That makes my heart a little lighter. Since then, I only adopt from the shelter. First, it was a 15 year old black female, who missed her former owner so badly, it took months to bond with her. And during three years that we've spent together, I missed my soulmate every day.

[@nightowls7324]

I know what you went through. I have another Turkish Van mix; a white one that I rescued from a shelter. She was very hard to adapt and bit me often. But, now she follows me everywhere and is very loving and sweet. The day I got her, she rubbed all over baby Chan's blanket, and a little bag of his fur I saved of his. I cried so hard. I love her very much. She whines like a little toddler and is often scared. She is very, very different than baby Chandler was. I think about him every day and still never get past losing him. He was my life. But you know, there are more babies to save in this world that need help. And if we're able to give them a better life, then we cannot live in the past. I'm glad you found another baby to share your love with. Each one is irreplaceable.

[@coraleen3105]

Sorry, Not finished. After her death I adopted a almost white 2 year old female from the shelter. Her ears and top of the head is ginger, as well as her tail. She has one round spot on her back between her shoulders and a heart-shaped ginger spot right above her tail. It was difficult for the shelter to find a home for her as she has several behaviour issues. So, after rescue the shelters oldest cat, I took One of the difficult cats...because, I can help and I've had my soulmate 🤗. She was not my first cat and not my last. But I feel good helping other cats and have them in my life. I wish you all the best with every feline friend you will have in now or in the future. 💞. The white/ginger cat that's now my companion, her name is Bibi by the way, is the reason why I found your channel. I'm not sure if she's partly a van. Bibi is not longhaired, but her fur is the softest I've ever touched, like a rabbit. Her fur is long between her toebeans und she has tiny cuffs on top of her ears. 😄 Maybe she is kinda van - as your description in the video and comments from others here, explain a lot about what she is like. She is so different from any other cat I had or know. Hope I learn more about her to serve her the best life I can...thank you so much! 😘

[@richshealer3755]

So sorry for your loss. He seemed like a great companion. My son found a stray Turkish Van kitten. Since he didn't have papers the vet called him an American Domestic Longhair. His coloring was the same as yours on the head and tail. His body only had one patch of color near his rump. His thumbprint. He had a great personality. Very friendly, sort of like a dog. He and our black cat would take turns sleeping in their bed on a shelf next to me as I worked. My wife is allergic to cats so he wasn't allowed in the bedroom. The room used to have carpet, so there was a 3/4" gap under the door. He used to hook his paw under the door and pull his face tight into the gap. We could see his eye as he watched us and cried for us to come out. He didn't like to get wet, though he tolerated a bath once a month. He would bat at the bath tub water when it ran. He would jump in and play at the edge as the tub started to fill. Then he would get on the edge and watch. He liked to have his little pink nose rubbed. If he got excited he would grab our arm and lightly bite. We learned to avoid that as hands are not toys. He was very vocal. and super smart. He figured out how to unlock and open our outside basement door. I had to block it with shelving to stop him. Sadly he also liked to sneak out when we put out the trash. One night about ten years ago, he got out and we never saw him again. I'm still sad about that all these years later. My mother has a Maine Coon that is very similar in general hair length and physical build. Also very affectionate.

[@nightowls7324]

Oh Rich. I'm so, so sorry to hear that your baby got out and didn't return. That breaks my heart. You know, there's one thing about Vans, and that is that they have such a personality that you never, ever forget them. Maybe your baby ended up with a great lady or gentleman who just scooped him up and treated him like royalty and wouldn't let him out of sight. We can only hope he had an absolutely amazing life, Rich. Thanks so much for sharing. I miss my boy so much I still have his ashes in his urn with the dried tear drops on top of it. It sits a few feet from my bed so he's always with me. I think of him every single day and can't wait for the day when I see him in heaven.

[@brucealmighty2862]

I have one now found him on Christmas Eve 🥰

[@nightowls7324]

You're so lucky, Bruce! ❤ Treat him like a king!

[@susanajimenez9030]

I’m so sorry about your baby. I got a Turkish Van at the shelter. He is very shy and won’t come from under the bed. I hope he starts trusting me more. Btw you have the most beautiful hands. 😻

[@nightowls7324]

You're a doll, Susana. Thank you for your comment. Have you had your Van for long? They can tend to be nervous. Have you tried anything to deal with him hiding? I'm dealing with some issues currently with my female Van that I now have, and am bringing in a Behaviorist.

[@Kristynne.]

Haha, I can totally relate to the "protest" part. My fluff sometimes behaves like a spoilled child, lol. 😂 If she wants something and I won't do it, she'll start meowing angrily, fall on her back and rocking from side to side pawing at the air 😂, just like a small child when they don't get what they want. Also, mine doesn't like water either.

[@nightowls7324]

My new gal whines like a toddler if I pick her up and put her in a hold that might be not exactly to her liking (I carry her on my hip like a baby). It's that whine that's really bratty. It's adorable... but she can get nasty when I do her nails. She is a strong fighter but such a girly girl and frightens easily. My boy (in the video) never fought me when he was alive. He was my little soulmate. Miss him terrible.

[@Kristynne.]

@@nightowls7324 I'm so sorry for your loss, may he rest in kitty heaven! I used to carry my fluff on my hip when she was a kitten as well 😂. Now she's too big and I need to hold her up with both hands. She's not protesting though, I used to carry her around a lot when she was little and she's used to it. She'll protest if the food is not to her liking though. Oh boy, she'll follow me around the house for hours meowing until I give her something else 🤦🏻‍♀️. How old is your new gal? 🥰 Is she also a Turkish Van or some other breed? Oh, and I totally get it with the "soulmate", I have 3 other cats besides my Turkish Van but I don't have the same strong bond with them as I do with her. She is also my first cat, she's been with me for the past 4 years. I don't know what I'd do without her.

[@nightowls7324]

@@Kristynne. My new little girl is Seraphina, and I have had her since 2 weeks after I lost my boy. Felt like I was dying inside. She was feisty and showed me quickly she would fight me, but we created a bond after about a year. She will still try to kick my butt, if I pet her too long, touch her fur the wrong way or try to do her manicure. She's definitely a little devil but I do adore those "little girl" pout-like whines. Her mannerisms are so different than my boy. Yes I believe her to be part Van. She has a Grey cap on her head. Here she is being a spoiled brat. Lol kzbin.info/www/bejne/lZa4eIOHpptjnLc

[@nightowls7324]

@@Kristynne. what is your little girl's name? She sounds like a wee little princess, too. I absolutely adore Van traits whether they're pedigree, or far from it

[@Kristynne.]

@@nightowls7324 Seraphina looks fabulous! She looks more like a Turkish Angora, she's beautiful! My baby's name is Pufarina, her name is a long story 😂. In my country there's a type of cereal called "pufarine". And the first time I layed my eyes on her, it was the first thing that came into my mind. I guess her fur reminded me of the cereal. But she has 10+ more nicknames because I can't stop spoiling her 😂. Here are some pictures of my baby: ibb.co/16KQ0dS ibb.co/Hn6pM83 ibb.co/cgCbSVp And these are from 4 years ago when I rescued her: ibb.co/4Jq9bNH ibb.co/sVy0NkW ibb.co/bQnxPWP Can't actually believe it's been 4 years already. Time flies when you love something so much. Seraphina not eating from the floor reminds me of Pufarina refusing to eat from her new bowl 😂. The old one was more flat and the new one is rounder. For some reason she hates that. I guess Pufarina is more like your baby boy (may he rest in peace), she's never fighting with me for anything, she's very calm and patient, even at the vet. I can truly say that I trust her with my life (if something were ever to happen). She's never even scratched me or showed any kind of violent behavior. If she's annoyed by anything that I'm doing, she'll just walk away 😂.

[@realcomm192]

He's so precious, what happened to one of his eyeballs?

[@SumomoCake]

Cute Van or Angora mix

[@margreetknol5817]

Thanks u for chans video. Ik live in the Netherlands with my 2 turkish Vans.( Girls) A 2 collered and a 3 collered they are 3 years old and exactly as u discribe the breed. But Both so different. One is so talkative and the other is like a hippie when they are in my enclosed garden.to bad i can't send u a picture.i Just rook a picture of Ollie the 3 collored And at the background u see Ur clip on KZbin streaming on the tv.

[@nightowls7324]

Oh, I wish I could see it! I laughed when you said one is like a hippie! 🥰

[@springwhitecoloudsrain7352]

شنو هالانسانية الخاطرالله ربي يحفظكم شنوهالقطة اجنن

[@HighAlltimes]

We have a Turkish van. One day just walked up to our porch and we fed him. Had him ever since. He’s got dark brown going from the top of his head, down his back, and his whole tail and has white for the rest of his body. Really sweet cat, likes to eat all day lol we’ve had him for about 6 or 7 years but he might of already been a year or two old when we got him but he still acts like a kitten when I play with him. He can be super lazy and like to nap alllllll day haha he’s super sweet though. His name is ash.

[@nightowls7324]

Cookie, please walk over to baby Ash and give him the biggest kiss ever on his little head for me! I love him already! 🥰

[@JennelleShipman92]

I have a Turkish Van cat in a European shorthair the short hair is a kitten in the Turkish Van is maybe like 5 years old The Turkish Van's Birthday is September 29 and the kittens is December 5 and the year the turkish van was born was 2016 And the kittens year is 2020

[@princebutterscotch5561]

Wow he looks like my dad

[@Blynat]

I have a male Turkish Van that is 22.2 pounds... He is a monsters and I think he may be part something else, also. He is very friendly, just huge.

[@nightowls7324]

Hey Caleb. Yes, males are very muscular and strong. Is he tall? Are his paws big? If he's overweight, that's not good as it can lead to illness. But, my mother's cat is very large, big boned like a horse, and has a much bigger frame (and head) than other cats. So he would naturally need more food than the others or else he would look like a noodle!

[@dicksanders8206]

Sorry you lost your lovely boy. We are currently on our 4th male Turkish Van. We've had this breed exclusively for over 40 years. What you describe in your boy is exactly what we have had in all our boys. They are great cats.

[@nightowls7324]

God bless you, Dick. You're a lucky person to have had 4 Vans. After my baby boy passed, I got a female Van (of course neither were pedigree Vans.) She is so different. Very girly, whines like a "bratty, tired toddler" when I pick her up at times, and she will go on attack mode if I attempt to trim her nails. She would bite me randomly, as gentle as I was with her, but she hasn't done that in several months. She has since started following me into the bathroom, waiting for me at the door, sitting on my chest waiting for her cookies, etc. I've had to teach her manners. She was found on the city streets wearing a collar and no one ever claimed her. She has peed on several things and I've gotten very angry at that's not something I could figure out. Very upsetting. I do bond with her, but I don't know that I'll ever have a bond with any other cat as I did with baby Chandler in the video. He was my first, much like a child. My new girl is in many ways so different, and I do love her. But I can say that my last boy was more like a "feline soul mate". We must understood eachother, as crazy as it sounds. I am so angry still over his death, and full of guilt. Did you ever have one that you had such a special bond with and you tried to have it with the others but something just seemed like it was missing?

[@dicksanders8206]

Now that you mention it, yes. A little history... we got our 3rd boy Ted too soon. My wife was still grieving over our 2nd boy, Poopieto, with whom she had a very close bond. So, what happened was Ted bonded with me instead. Generally speaking, the cats like me, but they prefer her, especially when it comes to cuddling. Every night Ted would come up on the bed, curl up on my shoulder, and bury his nose in my neck. That was so great. When he did it, everything was right in the world. In any case, my wife was jealous and she worked extra hard to win him over, and she eventually succeeded (it took about 3 years). Still, he never gave up my neck, so we both benefitted. Our current boy, Ned, is probably the most lovable of all. We waited a full year to get him. We asked Carol at YpsiVans for a kitten that liked people, liked being handled, was affectionate, etc. Ned is a big lover boy and doesn't like to be separated from my wife. He follows her everywhere, hangs with her whatever she's doing, and doesn't mind being carried around like a baby (well, most of the time anyway). He likes me, too, but I can't take any liberties with him. But we did have one cat, Ricky, for just one month, whom we didn't bond with. He was 6 months old when we got him, and that was the problem. He hadn't been properly socialized, handled and loved as a kitten. He was an extraordinary beauty, but kind of cold. Sadly, he died of a thrown clot just 6 weeks after we got him. He was 7 1/2 months old. At the time, we were actually looking for another home for him. We are a one cat family, so it's very important to us to have that close bond and affection. You might consider finding a home for your girl. Many people who have one or two Turks might want another one. And if you do choose to get a new Turk, be sure to get a boy, and be sure to get one no older than 12 or 13 weeks. Eleven weeks is even better. This will ensure that you can bond very closely. We got our most recent boy from Carol at YpsiVans Cattery in Ypsilanti Michigan. We told her exactly what we wanted and she called us when she had him (took a year). All of our boys have been great (my wife says the boys make the most affectionate pets), but Ned is the most lovable of all. We feel very lucky to have him, but we've enjoyed all the boys over 4 decades. When I met my wife she had been living as a single woman (one cat, Petie, 4 years old). I told her, wow, your cat is so beautiful, we should take him to a cat show and enter him in the household pet category. We went to a big 6 ring show in Santa Monica, CA. He won 1st or 2nd place ribbons in 4 rings. He was a huge hit at the show. The judges told us he was a Turkish Van. This was in 1983 or 4. We had never heard of the Turkish Van breed, and only found out later that the breed was new in America and had been introduced to the Cat Fancy by Barbara Reark (who later helped us get our 2nd boy Poopieto). My wife got Petie at a shelter in El Segundo, CA where there is an Air Force facility. We think maybe a military person brought a pregnant Van from Turkey. How else to explain a Turkish Van kitten showing up at a shelter in America in 1979? Well, it's been a life-long love affair with the Vans ever since. Some day my wife will write a memoir -- My Life with the Vans. You can learn more at ypsivans.com/kittens/ and you can call Carol to talk about what you want. I think it's worth it to wait... and to spend more (the initial cost is really a small cost). I know a lot of people are against buying from breeders, but the cats from the breeders need homes, too. And they all need love. Thanks for responding. Always glad to talk about our sweet babies. By the way, our understanding is the Turkish Van lives about 12 years. And that's been our experience, except for Petie, who lived to 15. So, don't feel guilty and blame yourself. Your boy had a full and good life with you. All the best -- Dick

[@Helleberg57]

Van Remus 15 yo says hi from Sweden😊

[@vladkovojtovic7399]

Thanks for the video! My cat is snow-white with one eye blue and the other amber, and I wonder if my cat can have to do anything with Turkish Vana...

[@nightowls7324]

It's possible your baby may have a mix of Van. Is it short haired? Long haired? Any markings? Keep an eye on your baby's blue eye, as they can sometimes be deaf in the ear that's on the same side as that blue eye. 💙

[@watchgoose]

just FYI for people, my vets and personal physicians have all confirmed that ophthalmic ointment is the SAME THING is triple antibiotic ointment! It's ok to use it in the eye.

[@nightowls7324]

I never knew that! Whoa! I'd be scared to use human grade though, in case it was too strong for them or something.

[@supergame8714]

Cat ❤️❤️❤️

[@najimashahul6388]

We have one too, his name is Jefferson 🐈

[@nightowls7324]

Najima, please go give baby Jefferson a hug and kiss for me, will you? I love them to pieces!!

[@everevolving286]

They can have trousers too haha. He's so beautiful. My boy is grey and white his name is Mink but we often call him Minx p.s. .. I also had the same sleep disorder and RLS, it was truly awful for 12 yrs , take the very best care of yourself, I'm doing better lately. Absolute best wishes for you.

[@nightowls7324]

God bless you. Thank you very much for the comment. Yes, their "pants" are adorable. Did you get a diagnosis of Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder? I've found no treatment thus far. So you still retain the same sleep/wake circadian patterns? RLS I believe I get in waves seldomly, but that too came up on my genetics test. I also have fragmented sleep, combined with Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder. The ASPD genes are multiple in my testing, but the DSPD is what I've dealt with since teens.

[@everevolving286]

@@nightowls7324 I would suggest if you haven't already done this to get your vitamin D levels checked but do not go to any doctor you have previously gone to that they may already have you on some treatments. Because with the chance that raising your vitamin D corrects your sleep disorder, and possibly any other things that may be ailing you Any doctor that has you on a program already, would not be willing to forgo that treatment that they have you on because of the finances that they're receiving when vitamin D is far less expensive and does not require a doctor ot their doctor fees. that's why you don't want look up your test done for vitamin D levels by anyone you've already seen. If you live in America 98 percent of doctors are about treating and not healing because healing does not pay their mortgage or their student loans. Don't know if that that's your answer but I hope you find what you're in need of because after the consciousness our health is the most valuable thing.

[@nightowls7324]

@@everevolving286 Thanks for the input. Yes, I've had vitamin D checked multiple times and it's always normal. Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder is not something that theres actually a "cure" for. It is genetic. There are support groups for people who really do have it (if its "cured," most likely it wasn't DSPD) and I've looked into all the methods. Unfortunately, it isn't something I've ever seen anyone truly have and treat successfully. The alleged treatments are high failure rates, hence many people need support groups after getting tired of trying everything and nothing works. I've pretty much learned to live with it.

[@holt69rams]

Just came across your video. I'm sorry to hear of your loss. I have, what I'm sure, is at least part Turkish Van. He was posted on FB as in need of a home. I drove an hr to get him, thinking I would foster for a rescue I'd worked with. But ended up adopting him & am so happy that I did. He is the most loving, smart cat of any of the many I've had. He seems dog like in following me around. He was "Mr. Mom" with a litter of kittens I fostered. I hope you have found another Van; they are very special cats. ❤

[@zwesang]

True

[@pjb2773]

Is the thumbprint the telltale sign of a van? Would a kitten have developed a thumbprint by eight weeks of age?

[@mualafbulechannel58]

So lovely 😍

[@nightowls7324]

Thank you very much. I miss him every single day. He was my world.

[@ChristianSaveAmerica]

I stumbled across your video and then searched on Petfinder to find a cat for you. I think I found the ideal kitty for you located in Rohrersville, Maryland. Check him out. His name is Hamilton. He’s posted a a Maine Coon, but it’s so obvious he’s not a Maine Coon. The rescue is called Pure Haven, Inc. Hopefully he’s the one you’ve been looking for for 2 straight years after you loss of Chan. Good Luck🍀

[@nightowls7324]

Lynn, how very sweet! I know exactly who Hamilton is and wish I could have him, but he's just too far away, unfortunately. Man, I fell in love with him immediately when I saw him on Petfinder. I can't believe he was on there so long! Even if I were closer, I now couldn't get another one for a while. But I do dream of one day getting one again that's exactly like my Baby Chan. I so wish it was Hamilton!!

[@metallion0738]

Great review, I wonder if I can find this breed of cat here in Chicago, I haven't seen them, and they love water as far as this breed of cat.

[@nightowls7324]

They're not easy to find. I am not sure if you saw, but I lost my boy in Nov 2018, which was the worst experience of my life. I did get a new girl thereafter, and she is assumed to be Van or Van mix. I got her from SPCA. My boy in the video was rescued from a farm, so you can sometimes find them by looking in your area. There are pet places and adoption agencies who do try to pass some cats off as Turkish Vans but they're not at all close to the breed. So be careful. I hope you can find one in your area.

[@metallion0738]

@@nightowls7324 Thank you very much for your information.

[@nightowls7324]

@@metallion0738 You're welcome. Check on Petfinder and search by city and breed. Good luck in finding one of these beautiful babies.

[@divyavijay500]

Same my cat colour and same breed

[@adornomarcus1]

Haha. I call mine Mr. Baby or mish mish

[@elainekim867]

Fun fact, I also own a van cat.

[@nightowls7324]

Awesome, Elaine! What's his or her name?

[@elainekim867]

His name is mini, and he’s about 9 yrs old.

[@CatManMini]

Hi mom! It’s me, Mini!!!

[@nightowls7324]

Watch my Turkish Van Seraphina refusing to eat off the floor. ☺ I got her after Chandler (shown in the video) passed away and she keeps me on my toes. Boys and girls are very different. Watch a girl Van con me into serving her 👇 kzbin.info/www/bejne/lZa4eIOHpptjnLc

[@d4n737]

"Turkish vans are really smart" All it takes for me is to Boop my cats nose and he doesn't know that to do.

[@stever5887]

You might be careful with B.C.'s weight at 15 lbs. I had one who was 15-16 lbs. in Denver, and he developed diabetes around age 7-1/2. That was rough on Babe; I had to give him injections twice a day, which was expensive for me. They're more prone to other issues as they age, and it requires a lot of time and work. He was my buddy, though, and he made it to 16+ before he died. I have a three y.o. mix now in California (he was a rescue). I'm very careful about his diet and weight, in order to keep him healthy. Good luck.

[@nightowls7324]

Steve, I'm not sure how I missed your comment but thank you. Unfortunately, Baby Chan passed away in November 2018. Worst time of my life. I've since gotten a white little girl Van that I may soon introduce to this channel. I'm so sorry to hear your baby passed as well. My new girl I call "quarter pounder" as she is a lightweight; far less muscular as baby Chan.

[@e.e5695]

I have a white young old van but i dont know how to get him to love me !

[@nightowls7324]

Have you tried bonding with him to teach him tricks? Spent a lot of extra time playing with him? Sometimes, they are just very independent, but if indeed you spend a lot of time getting to know them, they will return the favor. Hope old is your boy?

[@e.e5695]

@@nightowls7324 only 4 months .. its my first cat

[@jamielynn7059]

My cat looks just like this and has a bad eye his hat and bad eye since he was a kitten I think he has herpes in his body or something That's what the vet told me. My cat has the same coat same colors and his eyes match his Orange color, But what I am told is it's very rare to have a Turkish van in the United States so he's prob not pure bread but looks so much like your cat and obsessed with water.

[@jamielynn7059]

When I looked up facts about turkish vans it said they have eye issues and it's passed down through genetics.

[@easypeasy8535]

I pet a cat like this but it's a stray outside

[@sandya5832]

I found out when I did my research on Turkish Vans, they are the B blood type, I would love to get another Van, they are very expensive

[@jaybrown2849]

This isn’t anything to do with traits?

[@tomrishak3782]

Van cat must be all white , and one green eye the other one blue eye

[@nightowls7324]

That's false. Sorry. :)

[@Willy_Milano]

One interesting fact about this breed of cats is that they only have one eye.

[@mohamadashrafmotorwala3149]

Animal lovers

[@CarsiBonn]

Ne diyor yaa bu kadın ingilizcemi konuşuyor arapçamı anlamıyorumki..

[@nightowls7324]

Üzgünüm ama senin dilini konuşmuyorum. Google Translate kullandım. Ben İngilizce konuşurum. Video, Türk Van kedisinin özellikleriyle ilgili ve bu, 2018'de ölmeden önce benim kedimdi.

[@nightowls7324]

Van kediniz var mı? Nerede yaşıyorsun?

[@CarsiBonn]

Yapma yaa öldümü kediniz, Çok üzüldüm bayan 😔 Hayır benim kedim yok ama bende çok seviyorum kedileri ve ben Türküm ama Almanya’da yaşıyorum 🤗

[@CarsiBonn]

Yazık yaa bunun gözü de sakat galiba görmüyo 😔

[@YasinTheDuke]

This Van cat is not aryan/purebred. Van cats are normally white.

[@nightowls7324]

You and other people of foreign descent commonly come to this channel to make a claim that Vans are pure white. That is not true, based on breeder standards. Turkish Van cats have semi-long hair with silky texture. They are white with a colored tail and color on the head and they can have spots of color on the body. The markings are called the VAN PATTERN. They *also come* in pure white which is rare. The International Cat Association recognizes all traditional van colors *as well as solids,* and the only solid that is considered Van is white. In other words, a cat that is any other solid color except white, cannot be a Van. Patterned vans have a blazed head patch and colored tails. Up to 20% of the cat may be colored with random spotting. One or two "van salesmen" try to redefine the breed just to make money off of people. There are many so called "breeders" in other countries who claim to have pure Turkish Vans and only have white ones. If they keep telling people that only the white ones are the real Vans, they think they can lead people back to their facility and charge exhorbitant prices for their own. In fact the most sought after Vans "are not pure white,* but there are breeders who don't have access to patterned Vans so they tell people that the spotted ones aren't real. *It is a scam.* They are lying, and trying to keep the rumor going that only their own cats are pedigree Vans.

[@YasinTheDuke]

@@nightowls7324 wow nice information thx. Almost all the Van and Ankara (as you say Angora) cats in Turkey are pure white, that's why I thought like that. I didn't know there could be otherwise.

[@nightowls7324]

@@YasinTheDuke No problem. Here is the breed standards for Turkish Vans from International Cat Association. tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=887:turkish-van-breed&catid=79

[@Karo_k77]

Armenian cat “Vana Catu” in Armenian , not turkish, Van is Armenian city and we will be back in Van 🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲

[@necmikeskin545]

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHASLDKASDKLASJDASHDASJDGAFAKFLJADASDSHDKJASDA ok armenian. :D

[@iboatalay7981]

you are a looser

[@heroinmom153]

We saved a 4 week old baby van that stumbled out in front of our car at 3am. He hadn't eaten in a long time and couldn't even run from us because he was so weak. We couldn't find a mother or litter mates anywhere, unfortunately, but we've had him for a year now and we love him so much. Much of the information in this video matches his personality. He loves water, too. He's very, very smart and exploratory, which gets him into a lot of trouble, because he's INCREDIBLY bad lol. We have to lock him in the bedroom when we make or eat food, because he bolts in, steals the food out from under us, then runs away with it. He once stole a whole sandwich I was eating by knocking it off my plate onto the floor and then just started scarfing it down fervently, and I couldn't pull it away from him lol. He has an excess of energy and breaks lots of things in the house, but he's worth the damage because he's so playful, loving, and cuddly. We couldn't imagine our lives without the little demon, now.

[@nightowls7324]

Oh wow! God bless you for saving the little sprinkle! That's wonderful! When baby Chandler was a baby, he would try to attack my ankles. He wanted to hunt constantly. Later in life, he calmed down. I babied him a lot- carried him around on my hip like a baby, etc. I took him for a lot of walks too. If their minds aren't stimulated enough, they'll find other ways to improvise to simulate hunting. The sandwich you talked about made me wonder... does he do that with his own food as well? After my baby boy (in the video) passed away, I got a female Van a couple weeks later, and her personality was very different. She was hoarding food and acting starved. I couldn't figure it out and thought it was anxiety and tried everything to work on her to figure out the issue. It turned out she had worms (gross) and I had to use a de-worm treatment. She seemed to stop hoarding food afterwards. How is your boy now? Is he calming down? About 20-30 minutes of good, energetic play time per day helps get that desired to hunt out of them and can calm them down a lot.

[@korn-tv2032]

That’s a van cat not a turkish van cat there is a difference. Turkish vans only have marks on their head and tails.