Breed of semi-longhaired domestic cat distinguished mainly by its unusual colour pattern: white, with coloured markings only on the head and tail.
"Van" is a common term in the breed's native region, Central and South Asia, used also to describe other cats with similar markings. The breed was brought to Europe by returning Crusaders. A unique feature is its cashmere-like, waterproof coat; it loves water, and in its native region it has been called the swimming cat. It is large, active, and intelligent.