The Turkish Van is one of the larger, more heavily-built domestic cat breeds. Males average between 10 and 20 pounds, and females weigh substantially less. They have long, strong legs, massive rounded paws and well-defined muscles, which allow them to be very strong jumpers. Their head is blunt and wedge-shaped, with a short muzzle and large, prominent tufted ears. The overall appearance of the Turkish Van is one of sturdiness wrapped up in a luxurious fur coat.

Turkish Vans are loving, loyal, curious, companionable and affectionate. They also are extremely intelligent, which can make them mischievous. Vans are very people-oriented cats. They like to play, jump and explore anything that is within their reach or range of vision. Many Vans are dedicated to fetching their particular object of interest, and many Turkish Van owners describe them as being “dogs in a cat suit” because of their charming personalities. Vans will follow their owners around the house from room to room, wanting to participate in whatever is going on in the household. They typically get along quite well with other companion animals, including both dogs and cats, as long as those animals respect the Van’s position at the top of the hierarchy. While the Turkish Van loves to be with its owner, it is not particularly fond of being picked up and cuddled unless it is on its own terms.