At the Van Cat Research and Application Center, the protected Van cats have given birth to their first kittens of 2025.
The center, which operates under Van Yüzüncü Yıl University, continues efforts to preserve the Van cat, a significant local species, and increase the number of cats that are close to their original form.
At the center, where new kittens are raised each year, the first batch of births has resulted in 11 Van cats and 37 kittens.
Center Director Prof. Dr. Abdullah Kaya told reporters that they had carefully been taking care of pregnant cats, and now the births have begun.
He noted, "Currently, 11 Van cats have given birth to 37 kittens. The births occur in three batches throughout the year. The first batch of births is 50% complete. We plan to have more kittens by the end of the year.
We will adopt out any excess kittens. This year, we aim to find homes for around 100 kittens. We take great care in raising them. All our staff members who care for the kittens have experience.
We ensure the kittens don't contract infections and that no losses occur by showing the utmost sensitivity in their care."
Melek Çimendere, a visitor from Istanbul, expressed her appreciation for the environment created for the cats. She said, "The cats are very friendly.
They are beautiful and well cared for. Their eyes are very beautiful. I had never seen a Van cat before. It was a lovely experience for me."
