Cat Breed Turkish Angora

The Turkish Angora stands out among many "man-made" cat breeds as it is a naturally occurring breed originating in Turkey around the 15th century. Believed to have descended from the African wildcat, their long, silky fur is thought to be either a result of a spontaneous mutation or an evolutionary response to Ankara's harsh, snowy climates. Admired for their beauty and grace, Turkish Angoras hold a special place in the hearts of the Turkish people. 

Stories and legends abound, with some suggesting they were once cherished pets of ancient royalty. Their distinctive coat colors, intelligence, and playful demeanor have been highly prized throughout history. There's even a tale that connects them to Mohammad, the founder of Islam, who was said to have been so fond of cats that he spared one sleeping on his robe by cutting off his sleeve.

Turkish Angora’s History

In the 17th century, these cats made their way to Europe, captivating the aristocracy with their allure. In France, they were even seen among the company of King Louis XV's council. Cardinal Richelieu boasted a collection of up to fourteen Turkish Angoras, and it's rumored that Marie-Antoinette had six of them, allegedly sending them to America before her arrest. 

Their popularity led them to cat shows in the late 19th century, where Persian breeders incorporated them into their programs, unfortunately leading to a decline in Turkish Angora populations in Europe. To safeguard them, Turkey established a breeding program at the Ankara Zoo. 

American servicemen stationed in Turkey during the 1950s were enchanted by these cats, leading to the foundation of the American Turkish Angora breeding program when two were gifted to Colonel and Mrs. Walter Grant. This initiative spread the breed across the United States. In 1968, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) began registering Turkish Angoras, granting them championship status in 1972. Initially limited to all-white cats, the category expanded to include all colors two years later.

Appearance of Turkish Angora Cats

When envisioning the Turkish Angora, the word "elegance" immediately springs to mind. This breed boasts a medium-size, slender body with fine bone structure and long legs leading to small, rounded to oval paws, tufted delicately between the toes. Its triangular head, when viewed from the front, and straight-profile form two distinct planes meeting at a wide angle above the eyes. Adorned with wide-based, pointed ears set high on the head, each heavily tufted, the tips of which are known as "lynx tips." 

Its almond-shaped eyes, large and expressive, are slightly slanted upwards and come in shades of blue, green, amber, or sometimes exhibit heterochromia (two different colored eyes). 

Despite its slim appearance, the Angora possesses an underlying athletic physique, draped in a luxurious, silky, fluffy coat that lends an illusion of greater size. As the medium-length fur grows, it thickens around the ruff, britches, and belly, often displaying a delightful crinkle. Traditionally, white has been the iconic color of Ankara cats, representing the breed for generations. However, today, Turkish Angoras come in an array of hues, excluding lilac, cinnamon, chocolate, and fawn. Patterns such as colorpoint, sepia, and mink are not accepted due to indications of crossbreeding. Lastly, the Turkish Angora's tail is a remarkable feature, akin to ostrich feathers in its elegance. Carried upright, perpendicular to the back, it adds a final touch of grace to this already regal feline.

Cat Breed Turkish Angora Personality and Character

Turkish Angora cats are known for their lively and affectionate demeanor, thanks to their athletic build. They exhibit a playful curiosity and enjoy interactive activities, reflecting their natural hunting instincts. Their sharp intelligence enables them to respond well to training, especially when started at a young age. With consistent engagement from their owners, Turkish Angoras can develop into delightful companions, showcasing warmth and playfulness throughout their lives. 

These cats form strong bonds with their human companions, displaying a remarkable ability to adapt their behavior to match their owners' moods. They often demonstrate possessiveness towards their loved ones, craving attention and affection. Renowned for their vocal nature, Turkish Angoras are quite chatty and may engage in frequent conversations with their owners.

Turkish Angora Cats' Fascination with Water

Turkish Angora cats, unlike many other feline breeds, have a unique fascination with water. While most cats are known for their aversion to getting wet, Turkish Angoras defy this stereotype with their love for aquatic adventures. 

These elegant and athletic cats are often found playing with water, whether it's splashing in a shallow dish, pawing at a dripping faucet, or even joining their owners in the shower or bath. 

Their playful interactions with water showcase their spirited and curious nature, making them a delightful and entertaining companion for those who appreciate their aquatic antics. The origins of this affinity for water are not entirely clear, but some speculate that it could be linked to their ancestors' natural habitat in Turkey, where they may have encountered bodies of water like rivers or streams. Others believe it's simply a quirk of their individual personalities, as each cat has its own unique preferences and behaviors. Whatever the reason, the sight of a Turkish Angora happily splashing in water is sure to bring a smile to anyone's face. Their joyful enthusiasm for all things aquatic adds an extra layer of charm to an already enchanting breed, making them truly one-of-a-kind companions for those lucky enough to share their lives with them.

Turkish Angora Kitten

The Turkish Angora kitten is a delightful bundle of energy and curiosity, embodying all the charm and grace of its adult counterparts from an early age. With its slender frame and delicate features, the Turkish Angora kitten exudes elegance even in its playful antics. From the moment they open their eyes, these kittens are keen to explore the world around them. Their inquisitive nature drives them to investigate every nook and cranny, often getting into adorable mischief along the way. Climbing, jumping, and pouncing are all part of their daily adventures as they hone their natural agility and athleticism.

Despite their spirited nature, Turkish Angora kitten is also incredibly affectionate. 

They love nothing more than cuddling up with their human companions, purring contentedly as they soak up attention and affection. Their gentle demeanor makes them wonderful companions for families, children, and other pets alike. As they grow, Turkish Angora kittens begin to display the distinctive traits that define the breed. Their long, silky fur starts to develop, adding to their allure and sophistication. Their expressive eyes, whether blue, green, amber, or heterochromatic, sparkle with intelligence and curiosity, hinting at the playful and affectionate personalities that lie within. Whether they're chasing toys, exploring their surroundings, or curling up for a catnap in a sunny spot, Turkish Angora kitten bring joy and warmth to any home. With proper care, love, and attention, these kittens grow into magnificent cats, continuing to enchant and captivate their owners with their beauty, grace, and boundless affection.

As Tolerance Homes, we talked about the features of this special breed cat with admiration. It is nice to have a house in Turkey, it is even better to play games with your Angora cat in that house!