Il Turkish Angora cat It is one of the oldest and most fascinating feline breeds, native to Turkey, specifically the Ankara area. It is best known for its elegance and silky coat, but it also has a very distinctive personality. Athletic, energetic, elegant, slender, and muscular, the Turkish Angora is a cat native to the mountains of Cappadocia, named after the Turkish capital, Ankara. Be careful not to confuse it with the Angora, which was created in the 70s from a cross between the Turkish and Oriental Angoras.
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Origins
An ancient feline breed, believed to date back to the 15th century, officially recognized in the 1970s, originating in the mountains of Cappadocia. It likely arrived in Europe around 1620 thanks to the archaeologist and humanist Pietro Della Valle. In the 18th century, the breed began to be particularly prized by French aristocrats and became fashionable. At the time, it was especially white-coated specimens that attracted the nobles' favor.
History
During the Victorian era, the Turkish Angora arrived in the United Kingdom, enjoying great success. However, over time, supplanted by the Persian, it became increasingly rare, and it was thanks to the Turkish government that the breed was preserved. In the late 50s, a group of Americans revived the white variety, and in 1970 the breed was recognized. In this regard, the Turkish Angora was the first long-haired cat to be registered by feline associations. The Turkish Angora should not be confused with the Angora, a cross between the Turkish and Oriental Angoras, which can have all color variations, unlike its noble ancestor.
Legends
Legend has it that Muhammad owned a ginger cat whose fur turned white during a particularly harsh winter. The Turkish Angora is also said to be able to grant wishes whispered into its ear.
Appearance
A cat with an elegant, muscular, and athletic stance. The most famous variety is the white-coated one known in its country of origin as the "Ankara Kedi." Here are some other characteristics:
- The weight is between 2 and 5 kg.
- The eyes are almond-shaped, and their color can range from aquamarine to blue, yellow to gold. Eyes often have different colors.
- The muzzle is triangular.
- The angora is about 30 cm long.
- It has a long, feathery tail.
- The legs are long and thin.
- The coat is particularly thick, medium-long, and can be of various colors: the most well-known and appreciated is white, but gray, black, blue and red, tabby, tortoiseshell, and smoke are also permitted.
Character
This is a sociable cat (even with strangers), curious, lively, playful, and energetic. He loves cuddles, is affectionate, and can be very patient with children. But he's also proud and independent, sensitive, and intuitive. He's certainly not a cat that likes to stay alone; he wants to interact with his owners, making himself understood by modulating his voice. He needs physical contact and constant attention, and suffers somewhat from loneliness.
Behavior
Based on its character, the Turkish Angora who lives between the ages of 12 and 18, usually behaves like this:
- Likes to be up high (shelves, furniture, high points)
- Very active: needs stimulation and games
- Often a “chatterbox”, he communicates with vocalizations and requests
- He can be selective in relationships: he chooses his favorite people
Where its elegance is born
1. Body lines
His body is slender yet muscular, with a fine, never heavy structure. The lines are clean: there are no compact masses or squat shapes. This gives him an almost balletic appearance, always light and balanced.
2. Fluid movement
When he walks or jumps, he never seems stiff. His movements are fluid, elastic, almost "silent." Even during the most energetic games, he maintains very natural coordination, without clumsiness.
3. Neck and head carriage
He has a slender neck and a head carried with a certain pride. He's not arrogant, but he has an alert and "aware" air, as if he's always observing everything carefully.
4. Tail as a scenic element
The tail is long and plumed, and moves like a natural balance. When alert or in motion, it almost becomes a visual signature of its elegance.
5. Light and silky fur
Unlike other long-haired breeds, its coat is not heavy: it falls softly and follows the body's movements without weighing them down. This enhances the feeling of lightness.
6. Expression and gaze
The large, attentive eyes contribute greatly to the overall impression: he always seems curious, present and “intentional”, never empty or dull.
Cure
Despite being an athletic, dynamic, and energetic cat, it tends to gain weight, so it's important not to overfeed it. As for its diet, favor dry food, meat, or fish, and add supplements during shedding. Its fur doesn't require any special care other than a weekly brushing. White-coated cats with blue eyes sometimes suffer from a particular form of congenital deafness.
Adoption
Turkish Angoras can be purchased from authorized breeders, while for adoption, you may come across some looking for a family on Facebook groups dedicated to purebred cats, such as Rehoming Adult Purebred Cats.
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