Cat health

Turkish Van health problems and costs

The health issues a real source ties to the Turkish Van, what each one is, and what it tends to cost, so you can plan ahead.

Last updated: October 2026 · 10 sources · see sources

Quick answerThe vet-reviewed breed guide points to 2 health issues to plan for: dental disease and weight gain and obesity.

Health problems linked to the Turkish Van

Conditions and what they can cost
ConditionWhat it isRelated costs
Dental diseaseNamed by: PetMD vet-reviewed guide [1]Plaque and tartar build up below the gumline and lead to infection and tooth loss. Small breeds and some cats are especially prone. [2]Cat dental cleaning (owner bills): $350–$1,450 [3]
Weight gain and obesityNamed by: PetMD vet-reviewed guide [1]Extra weight strains joints and raises the risk of diabetes and other problems. Measured meals and exercise are the cheapest fix. [4]Cat vet visit (owner bills): $190–$525 [5]

Costs are national figures from our sourced cost guides, not breed-specific prices. Being on this list doesn't mean a pet will get the condition.

PetMD's vet-reviewed guide to the Turkish Van lists these conditions to know about: Dental Disease, Obesity. [1]

Health screening

The UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory lists 3 DNA health tests for the Turkish Van, including Dilute; AB Blood Group in Domestic Cat Breeds; Albino. [6] One health test costs $47 there. [7]

What to budget

Breed-specific cat bills aren't published, but a routine vet visit for any cat typically runs $190–$525. [5]

Insurance and savings

The average accident and illness policy cost $435 a year for a cat in the US in 2025. [9] Timing matters more than the price. A condition that shows up before you enroll is usually treated as pre-existing and isn't covered. [10]

Prefer saving instead? Putting money aside each month works too; see insurance vs a savings fund.

Common questions

What health problems are common in the Turkish Van?

Based on PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide, the conditions to know about are dental disease and weight gain and obesity. That doesn't mean every Turkish Van will get them.

How much are vet bills for a Turkish Van?

Breed-specific cat bills aren't published. A routine vet visit for any cat typically runs $190–$525 (VetReceipt owner bills).

Should I get pet insurance for a Turkish Van?

It's a personal call. The average accident and illness policy was $435 a year in 2025 (NAPHIA). If you want it, enroll while your pet is young and healthy, because conditions found before enrollment are usually excluded.

This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.

Sources (10) — tap to show
  1. PetMD – Turkish Van cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
  2. VCA – Dental disease in cats
  3. VetReceipt – Cat Dental Cleaning Cost (owner bills, 2026)
  4. VCA – Obesity in cats
  5. VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
  6. UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory – Turkish Van DNA tests
  7. UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory – Cat DNA test prices (effective Aug 3, 2026)
  8. ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
  9. NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
  10. RealVetCost – Feline diabetes treatment cost