Turkish Van Cat and Turkish Angora Cat: A Review

Abstract

Turkish Van and Angora cats are one of most important genetic resources in Turkey. The study aimed to evaluate some morphological properties and also behavioural characteristics in both Turkish Van and Angora cats. This research used both literature and the records from the Van Cat Home at Van Cats Research Centre of Yuzuncu Yil University for Turkish Van cats, as well as literature information for Turkish Angora cat. Van cats which have a special place among world cat races have gained appreciation of people with their original eye colors, long white hair and affectionate attitudes. Origin of Turkish Angora cat breeding in Turkey is Ankara province. Angora cat is strong, energetic, kind, known as a moderately long silky haired cat. According to the results of this study and literature, withers height and body length of Turkish Van cat are higher than the Turkish Angora cat, while tale length and breast girth of Turkish Angora cat are higher than the Turkish Van cat. Body weight (g) of female Turkish Angora cat is heavier than the Turkish Van cat, but male Turkish Van cat is heavier than Turkish Angora cat.