A Breed Nicknamed The 'Swimming Cat' Is An Energetic Feline That Loves The Water

At a pool party, you probably wouldn't expect to see felines in the water — that is, unless they happen to be a Turkish Van. Unlike many cats, which have an intense hatred for water, this rare and highly energetic breed doesn't mind getting wet; in fact, as their name implies (inspired by a lake in their country of origin), they loves to swim. The Turkish Van likes water so much that owners may struggle to shower alone if they leave the bathroom door even slightly ajar.

What about this breed allows them tolerate water in ways their fellow felines can't? It's all in their fur. Normally, when a cat gets wet, their coat grows heavy and weighs them down. This isn't the case with Turkish Vans, which have silky fur that causes water to slip right off of them. They also don't have an undercoat; without this thick layer to soak up water, these cats dry off at lightning speeds even after prolonged exposure.

Unfortunately, the purebred Turkish Van is so rare that you may not see one without traveling to their home country. It's estimated that fewer than 200 are born in the United States annually. If you are lucky enough to keep a Turkish Van as a pet, you'll find this active cat makes for a loving and playful companion.

Although it's great to know that a Turkish Van doesn't mind taking baths, be forewarned that their love of water may cause some trouble. While bathing yourself, it is probably best to leave the door closed unless you want your Turkish Van to join you. However, no water source is safe from their playful paws. Faucets and toilets will also appeal to the Turkish Van's nature. These cats are so clever that they more often than not learn to turn on the faucet themselves.

Additionally, having a mop handy is essential because this cat loves to splash and play in their water dish. Because of this, they would greatly benefit from a drinking vessel like a fountain with constantly flowing water to attract their attention. While this could be annoying, these splash-fests make the breed the perfect playmate for an older child who will reciprocate that energy.

Though Turkish vans are known for being highly energetic and playful, they still appreciate their space and aren't known for being very snuggly. For this reason, they may not be the best option for families with infants or small children, though this could vary from cat to cat. Older children may be fine to handle the feline, but parents should make sure to teach their children to respect their space to ensure they feel comfortable.