A study conducted by the Van Cat Research and Application Center at Yüzüncü Yıl University (YYU) in eastern Turkey has found that Van cats, often thought to be deaf or have poor hearing, actually have good hearing capabilities. The research, which spanned six years and involved over 300 cats, revealed that 86% of the Van cats tested can hear even faint sounds effectively.
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YYU Rector Professor Hamdulla Şevli shared exciting details about the findings during a news briefing at the Van Cat Villa. He emphasized that these results will enhance the understanding of Van cats, which were officially registered in 2004.
Professor Abdullah Kaya, the center director, noted that the study's methodology included careful selection of cats from non-deaf parentage to ensure reliable outcomes. He stated that the research demonstrates that blue-eyed cats are more likely to be deaf, while those with black spots on their heads do not exhibit deafness. Kaya highlighted that Van cats have the lowest prevalence of deafness among nearly 20 white cat breeds globally, which are generally more susceptible to hearing impairments.
The study concluded that Van cats can detect sounds at a remarkable 63% level of sensitivity at 0 decibels, suggesting a significant revision of the prevailing misconceptions about their hearing. In addition to their auditory abilities, the Van cat is also notable for its friendly demeanor, distinctive walking style, and fluffy tail, and remains an unhybridized breed. To support the breed's sustainability, the research center was established in the 1990s, and has since been committed to conducting projects that preserve the purity of Van cats.