Van Kedisi: The White Odd-Eyed Cat Fiercely Protected by Turkey

White as snow, sometimes with mismatched eyes, it fascinates as much as it intrigues. In Van, it’s known as “the lake cat.” A rare breed that Turkey is determined to protect.

A One-of-a-Kind Breed: Between Legend and Genetics

Originating from the Van region in eastern Turkey, the Van kedisi captivates with both its appearance and the stories surrounding it. Its snow-white coat, elegant silhouette, and especially its heterochromia—one eye blue, the other amber or green—make it instantly recognizable.

Locals say that a cat once swam in the lake waters just as Noah’s Ark was landing on Mount Ararat. Since then, they claim, it never left these lands—nor its love for water.Beyond the myth, science confirms its uniqueness. The Van kedisi possesses rare genetic characteristics, notably its natural heterochromia. It’s considered one of the oldest domestic cat breeds. Contrary to the typical image of the aloof and solitary cat, this one is affectionate, social, and bonds deeply with both its territory and its humans.

Preserving Authenticity: A Research Center at the Heart of Van

Since the 1990s, a dedicated center has operated at Van’s Yüzüncü Yıl University to preserve this emblematic breed. This research and breeding facility, part of the university’s veterinary faculty, ensures controlled reproduction of Van kedisi cats under strict conditions.Its mission: prevent unwanted crossbreeding, maintain genetic purity, and monitor key traits. On average, about fifty cats live permanently at the center, where they are fed, cared for, and monitored by a specialized team.

A Feline Turned Cultural Icon and Tourist Attraction

In Van, the white cat is everywhere—in hotels, museums, souvenir shops. It appears on posters, postcards, and sometimes even on municipal signage. Some businesses have adopted it as a mascot, and the protection center welcomes visitors all year long.This iconic feline contributes to the region’s identity, especially for Turkish tourists and visitors from neighboring countries. It represents the authenticity of Eastern Anatolia, far from clichés of a purely rural or isolated Turkish East.

Cats in Turkish Culture: Between Spirituality and Daily Life

Respect for cats in Turkey isn’t limited to Van. Throughout the country, various beliefs and traditions place cats at the heart of everyday life. In Islam, it’s said that the Prophet Muhammad had great affection for cats and once cut off a piece of his robe rather than disturb his sleeping cat.This kindness still shows today—on the streets of Istanbul as much as in Anatolian villages. Cats are welcomed, respected, and often cared for by locals.The Van kedisi is no ordinary cat. Far from big cities, it is protected, nurtured, and recognized as a symbol of the region.

Why Does the Van Kedisi Still Fascinate Today?

In a country where cats are part of the everyday landscape, the Van kedisi still stands apart.It intrigues precisely because it seems out of sync with its time. In an era of social media, where cat-stars amuse millions with quirky or overly domesticated behavior, the Van feline keeps its aura of mystery.It also reflects a multi-faceted Turkey, where attachment to tradition is expressed in often unexpected details. By protecting this rare breed, the country asserts a deep connection to its land, history, and a quiet sense of pride.

A Four-Legged Heritage

One look is enough to know this cat is like no other.Between science and legend, state protection and popular fascination, the Van kedisi continues to transcend generations.It’s part of the scenery, as if it had always been there. And in Van, no one seems to want that to change.