About the Turkish Angora Cat

Considered a Turkish national treasure, the showy Turkish angora cat is a graceful, energetic and intelligent creature. Turkish angoras have amazingly soft, silky fur and delicate features.  Far from being display pieces, however, these cats are full of energy and mischief.  

Development of the Breed

The Turkish angora originated in the Middle East and was a very popular cat in 17th and 18th century Europe. Due to their popularity, the cats were used in breeding programs with other long haired cats, such as Persians, until the Turkish angora all but disappeared as a distinct breed. To save the breed, considered a national treasure of Turkey, the Turkish government began a breeding program for Turkish angoras in the early 1900's at the Ankara Zoo. Until the 1960's and 70's the government would not allow the cats to leave the country. However, once the Turkish government allowed outsiders to own and breed Turkish angoras, they became popular among cat fanciers in North America.

Appearance

Turkish angoras are graceful cats with silky, flowing coats. In winter, they have full manes, britches and extravagantly plumed tails. Their summer coats are shorter with fluffy tails and more abbreviated manes and britches. The cats are fine boned but well muscled and very strong. They have pointed faces with large ears and large, almond-shaped eyes. White is the traditional Turkish angora color, but the cats come in many colors and patterns.

Temperament

Turkish angoras are vocal, active, intelligent and mischievous. They tend to demand attention and affection from family members and visitors alike. Curious cats with a lot of energy, Turkish angoras will often find trouble if they are not sufficiently engaged with stimulating play and plenty of attention.