Cats Lounging in 'Cat Villa' Beat Summer Heat in Turkey
In the picturesque eastern region of Turkey, near Lake Van, a unique feline species named the Van cat is making a splash. These cats, known for their silky white fur, lion-like gait, bushy tails, and heterochromatic eyes, have found a sanctuary at the Van Cat Research and Application Center, located on the grounds of Van Yüzüncü Yıl University.
Gülşen Anadol, a tourist from Istanbul, recently visited the center with her family. Anadol found the Van cats to be very friendly, describing them as gentle, beautiful, and tame. Her children were particularly delighted to help feed the cats during their visit.
The center, often referred to as the "Cat Villa," provides meticulous care to these cherished felines. Staff regularly clean the cats' food bowls and beds, trim their nails, and take measures to shield them from the summer heat. For hot weather, the cats have access to air-conditioned rooms and specially designed pools, reflecting their unique fondness for water.
The Van Cat Research and Application Center is dedicated to the preservation and careful breeding of these cats. Unlike the standardized Turkish Van breed known internationally, the Van cat retains its original traits as a local natural variety. The center aims to maintain and increase the population of this cherished breed, attracting thousands of local and foreign tourists each year.
Internationally, the Turkish Van is widely recognized for its distinctive color pattern and heterochromia in some individuals. They are known as "swimming cats" due to their unusual fondness for water. The Van cats, however, retain their original characteristics, making them a unique cultural heritage for the region.
Center Director Abdullah Kaya hopes that August 8, celebrated worldwide as International Cat Day, becomes a day when issues about cats are discussed and awareness increases. Kaya expressed hope that all cats worldwide will enjoy the same level of comfort as the Van cats. He also highlighted the stark contrast between the conditions of Van cats and those of street cats, which often face hunger, thirst, and abuse.
The Van Cat Research and Application Center is a testament to the traditional heritage and modern conservation approach surrounding the Van cat in its native region. By providing a safe haven for these friendly and emotional creatures, the center not only preserves a unique species but also fosters a deeper appreciation for these fascinating felines among visitors from around the world.
- Gülşen Anadol, having visited the Van Cat Research and Application Center from Istanbul, shared that her children were thrilled to help feed the cats during their trip, as they found the Van cats to be friendly, gentle, beautiful, and tame, reflecting the loving lifestyle afforded to these special felines.
- As International Cat Day approaches on August 8, Center Director Abdullah Kaya voices his hope that the world will be more aware of the conditions faced by street cats, and strive to provide the same level of comfort and care provided to the Van cats, showcasing the unique value of the Van Cat Research and Application Center in promoting cultural heritage and feline conservation on a global scale.
