Cornish Rex vs Turkish Van

Which cat breed is right for you?

Cornish Rex

Size
5–10 lbs
Lifespan
11–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Playful Adventurous Intelligent Social

Turkish Van

Size
7–20 lbs
Lifespan
12–17 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Energetic Playful Independent Athletic

About the Cornish Rex

The Cornish Rex originated in 1950 in Cornwall, England, when a curly-coated kitten named Kallibunker appeared in an otherwise normal litter on a farm. This small-to-medium breed weighs 5–10 pounds and has a distinctive greyhound-like body — arched back, tucked waist, and long, slender legs built for speed. Their coat is uniquely composed of only the soft, curly down layer — lacking the outer guard hairs and middle awn hairs that other cats possess — creating a washboard-like wave pattern.

Temperament & Personality

Cornish Rex cats are energetic, acrobatic, and endlessly entertaining — they retain their kitten-like playfulness well into their senior years. They are extremely social, love to be held and handled, and will seek out the warmest lap or blanket in the house. They thrive with children and other active pets, and their clownish antics make them natural performers.

Pros

  • Minimal shedding — soft, wavy coat produces less loose hair than most breeds
  • Extremely active and entertaining — loves to play fetch and perform acrobatic leaps
  • Warmth-seeking and cuddly — an ideal lap cat and bed warmer
  • Highly social and does well in busy, active households

Cons

  • Thin coat provides little insulation — sensitive to cold and drafts
  • Prone to hair loss (hypotrichosis) and skin oil buildup requiring regular bathing
  • High metabolism means they eat more relative to their size and can be picky eaters
  • Can be demanding of attention and may act out if bored or ignored

Bring home the playful energy of a Cornish Rex — explore cats available for adoption on Puplister.

About the Turkish Van

The Turkish Van is a rare, naturally occurring breed from the Lake Van region of eastern Turkey, renowned as the "swimming cat" for its unusual love of water. This is a large, muscular cat weighing 10–18 pounds with a semi-long, cashmere-like single coat that is water-resistant and dries remarkably fast. The classic Van pattern features a predominantly chalk-white body with colored markings limited to the head and tail — typically in red, cream, black, blue, or tortoiseshell — though solid white and fully colored Vans also exist.

Temperament & Personality

Turkish Vans are energetic, independent, and famously fond of water — they may join you in the shower, play in the toilet, or splash in their water bowl. Intelligent and athletic, they love to climb, jump, and play vigorously. They bond closely with their family but can be selective about being held — they prefer to be near you rather than in your lap.

Pros

  • Unique love of water sets them apart from nearly every other breed
  • Cashmere-textured single coat is water-resistant, low-shedding, and rarely mats
  • Athletic and playful — endlessly entertaining to watch
  • Hardy, naturally evolved breed with robust health

Cons

  • Does not enjoy being held or restrained — wants affection on its own terms
  • Extremely high energy — needs significant space and daily vigorous play
  • Water obsession can create messes — toilet lids must stay closed
  • All-white Vans can be prone to deafness, similar to Turkish Angoras

Looking for an adventurous water-lover unlike any other cat? Browse Turkish Van cats on Puplister and discover this remarkable swimming feline.

Available for Adoption

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Cornish Rexes

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Turkish Vans

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Cornish Rex and a Turkish Van?
The Cornish Rex is 5–10 lbs sized while the Turkish Van is 7–20 lbs sized. They differ in size (5–10 lbs vs 7–20 lbs), lifespan (11–15 years vs 12–17 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Cornish Rex or Turkish Van?
Cornish Rex is generally good with kids. Turkish Van is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Cornish Rex or Turkish Van?
The Cornish Rex has a lifespan of 11–15 years while the Turkish Van has a lifespan of 12–17 years.

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