Blue, amber, or one of each
The image of one blue eye and one amber eye is well known. Yet Van cats do not always have different-coloured eyes: Van Yüzüncü Yıl University also records cats with two blue eyes or two eyes in amber tones.
Although known for a white coat, some have coloured markings. Watching the tail and movements as well as the eyes brings out the details of each individual cat.
A companion with a playful side
The university describes Van cats as companions that enjoy human company and play. An interest in playing with water is another familiar characteristic. The local word pişik, meaning cat, places them within the everyday language of the region.
Take a little time to watch what catches a cat’s attention, how it joins a game and when it retreats to its own corner. Those small movements can be as memorable as its face in a photograph.
The Cat House in Van
Van YYÜ’s Van Cat Research and Application Centre, on the university campus, studies the cats and welcomes visitors. Also known as the Cat House, it can be included in a separate outing from Erciş towards Van.
Check the university’s current visiting information before setting out, and contact the centre about school or group visits. Follow staff guidance and give the cats room to approach you in their own time.
