Somali
VS
Turkish Van
Somali vs Turkish Van
Compare Somali and Turkish Van side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Somali
Turkish Van
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
23 – 28 cm
25 – 30 cm
Weight
2 – 5 kg
4 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
11 – 16 years
12 – 17 years
Child friendly
4/5
4/5
Energy level
5/5
4/5
Intelligence
4/5
4/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
3/5
Shedding
3/5
4/5
Barking level
0/5
0/5
Aggressiveness
0/5
0/5
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Characteristics
Somali
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Easy to train
Turkish Van
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Easy to train
Summary
About Somali
The Somali is an athletic, foxlike cat with a silky, low‑shedding ticked coat and plumed tail. Intelligent and playful, it enjoys tricks, climbing, and puzzle toys. Social and people oriented, it needs daily interaction, gentle grooming, and environmental enrichment to stay happy.
About Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is a large, athletic, semi-longhaired cat known for its mostly white “Van pattern” with color on head and tail. Intelligent and curious, it enjoys water, active play, and puzzle toys. Affectionate but independent, it bonds closely while preferring to stay near rather than on laps.
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