The Turkish national bird is the Turkish Angora, a breed of domestic cat that originated in the Ankara region of Turkey. The Turkish Angora has been regarded as a national treasure of Turkey for centuries, and is the country’s most beloved feline. In this article, we will explore the history and characteristics of the regal Turkish Angora, and understand why it holds such an esteemed status as Turkey’s national animal.
What makes the Turkish Angora the national bird of Turkey?
The Turkish Angora has been associated with Turkey for centuries, originating from the Ankara region, which was historically part of the Ottoman Empire. Some quick facts about why the Turkish Angora is so revered in Turkey:
- Believed to have existed in Ankara region for over 700 years
- Prized for its long, silky white coat and elegant appearance
- Often gifted as a treasure between Ottoman sultans and royalty
- Regarded as a cultural icon and source of pride for Turkey
- One of the oldest known cat breeds, with genetic ties to ancestral wild cats
Due to its strong links to Turkish history and culture, the Turkish Angora was declared the national cat of Turkey in the 1930s. Its white coat is seen as symbolic of the country’s national flag and purity.
Origins and history of the Turkish Angora
The Turkish Angora has a long and storied history as Turkey’s revered feline. Here is an overview of the origins and history of this noble breed:
- Believed to have originated from wild cats in Ankara region centuries ago
- First introduced to Europe in the 17th century by Turkish traders
- Prized by Ottoman Empire royalty and became associated with wealth and privilege
- Often given as treasured gifts between sultans and European nobles
- Nearly went extinct in Turkey in early 20th century
- Breed revived when Ankara Zoo began breeding program in the 1960s
- Declared official national cat of Turkey in the 1930s
- Remains hugely popular cat breed in Turkey today
The Turkish Angora has a direct link to Ankara and the former Ottoman Empire, which is why it holds such historical significance for Turkey. Its long history with Turkish royalty strengthened its status as a national symbol.
Characteristics and personality of the Turkish Angora
What are the defining features and personality traits of the Turkish Angora cat?
Appearance:
- Medium-sized cat with a slender, graceful body
- Long, silky white coat is a hallmark of the breed
- Fine, feathery fur with almost no undercoat
- Long plumed tail
- Small, neat head with large ears and oval eyes
- Comes in various eye colors including blue, amber, green and odd-eyed
Temperament:
- Very intelligent, social and affectionate
- Bonds strongly with human companions
- Loves interacting with people and being involved in family activities
- Placid, gentle nature yet very lively and playful
- Has a soft melodious voice and enjoys communicating
- Curious and seeks out adventure
- Sensitive and thrives on companionship
The Turkish Angora is known for its outgoing, lively personality while also being very devoted and loyal to its loved ones. Its radiant white coat and graceful feline beauty only adds to its appeal.
Care and grooming needs
The Turkish Angora is a fairly high maintenance breed when it comes to grooming due to its long, luxurious coat. Here are some of its key care needs:
- Coat brushing: Requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangles
- Bathing: Only bathe when necessary using a mild cat shampoo
- Nail trimming: Trim nails every 2-3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Check and wipe ears weekly for buildup
- Dental care: Daily tooth brushing recommended
- Litter boxes: Provide at least 1 box per cat; clean regularly
The Turkish Angora’s exercise needs are moderate. It enjoys interactive playtime with feather wands, chase toys, and puzzles. Make sure to provide some vertical space such as cat trees.
Ideal home environment
What type of home is best suited for the Turkish Angora?
- Loving family willing to invest time in daily care and interaction
- Safe indoor environment; should be kept strictly indoors
- Peaceful household; dislikes loud noise or chaos
- Plenty of space to roam and climb
- Access to elevated perches and cat trees
- Mentally stimulating toys and activities
- Companionship from another pet or family members
The Turkish Angora thrives when it can closely bond with its family. Providing it a calm, stimulating indoor environment with ample space and enrichment is key.
Common health issues
Like all pedigreed cats, the Turkish Angora is prone to some hereditary health issues:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: Genetic heart disease that can lead to heart failure
- Progressive retinal atrophy: Inherited degenerative eye disease causing blindness
- Patellar luxation: Dislocated kneecap; more common in some lines
- PKD: Polycystic kidney disease affecting kidney function
Reputable breeders screen breeding cats for these diseases to reduce prevalence. With proper care, most Turkish Angoras live 12-18 years.
Interesting facts about Turkish Angoras
Here are some fascinating facts about these majestic Turkish felines:
- Turkish Angoras are one of the ancient natural breeds, dating back over 700 years.
- They were sought after by European nobility in the 17th-18th centuries.
- A Turkish Angora is called Ankara Kedisi in Turkey, meaning “Ankara cat.”
- They are considered good luck in their native Turkey.
- Turkish Angoras are very athletic and can jump to great heights.
- Their silky coat is virtually non-matting and dander-free.
- They have fine bones and weigh 5-9 pounds on average.
- The breed comes in over 20 coat colors despite its white association.
- Turkish Angoras are highly intelligent and easily trained.
- They have been described as “dog-like” in their devotion to people.
Famous Turkish Angoras
Many famous figures have owned Turkish Angora cats over the years. Here are some of the most notable:
- Marie Antoinette – The French queen was gifted a beloved Turkish Angora.
- King Henry III – The French king was another Angora fan.
- Ernest Hemingway – The famed author was photographed with his six-toed Angora cat.
- Greta Garbo – The actress adored her white Turkish Angora, New Boy.
- Pierre Bonnard – The French painter featured an Angora in many paintings.
- Crown Prince Frederick of Denmark – Owned two Angoras in the 1800s.
Even today, Turkish Angoras remain a top choice for cat fanciers and those who appreciate its connection to Turkey’s heritage.
Price range of Turkish Angoras
As a pedigreed breed, Turkish Angoras can be quite costly, usually ranging from:
- $800 – $1200 for kittens from a reputable breeder
- $1500+ for breeding/show quality kittens
- Adult cats over 2 years around $600 – $900
Factors affecting price include pedigree, conformation to breed standards, purity of bloodline, and breeder reputation. White kittens tend to be the most sought after.
Breed organizations and clubs
Major clubs representing Turkish Angoras include:
- The International Cat Association (TICA)
- Cat Fanciers Association (CFA)
- Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF)
- Feline Federation Europe
- Ankara Kedisi Derneği – Turkey’s Turkish Angora club
These nonprofits preserve breeding standards, sponsor cat shows, promote education, and connect breeders and fanciers.
Comparison to other cat breeds
How does the elegant Turkish Angora compare to other long-haired cat breeds?
Breed | Coat Length | Grooming Needs | Activity Level |
---|---|---|---|
Turkish Angora | Long, fine, silky single coat | High – requires daily brushing | Medium-high |
Persian | Long, dense, flowing double coat | Very high – daily grooming | Low |
Maine Coon | Medium-long, shaggy double coat | Moderate – weekly brushing | High |
Ragdoll | Medium-long silky coat | Low-moderate | Low-medium |
Siberian | Long, thick triple coat | High – daily brushing | Medium-high |
While similar to other long-haired breeds in beauty, the Turkish Angora stands apart in its exceptionally fine, silky coat and links to Turkey.
Is a Turkish Angora the right breed for you?
Are you considering adding a Turkish Angora to your home? Here are some key questions to ask yourself:
- Are you able to commit to daily brushing and grooming?
- Can you provide a peaceful indoor-only environment?
- Do you have time to interact with an active, intelligent cat daily?
- Are you prepared to provide enrichment through play, perches and toys?
- Can you ensure the cat stays healthy with vet visits, diet, etc?
- Are you able to cover the costs of feeding, litter, vet bills, etc?
- Do you have space for litter boxes, cat trees, scratching posts?
For the right owner, the Turkish Angora makes a delightful, loyal companion. Make sure you can meet all its needs before bringing one home.
Where to adopt or buy a Turkish Angora
Looking to add one of these charming cats to your family? Here are some tips:
- Contact Turkish Angora breeders – be sure to screen for reputation
- Check with reputable cat rescues or shelters in your area
- Search for Turkish Angora cat breeders online through TICA or CFA
- Attend cat shows to connect with Angora owners and breeders
- Join Turkish Angora social media groups and online forums
- Consider adoption if you have flexibility on traits like coat color
- Be prepared to get on a waitlist for kittens or younger cats
Allow plenty of time for your search – the perfect Turkish Angora for your household is worth waiting for!
Conclusion
With its aristocratic bearing, lustrous silky coat, and centuries-old ties to Turkey, it is easy to see why the Turkish Angora has earned pride of place as the country’s national feline treasure. While high-maintenance when it comes to grooming, the Angora rewards its owner with extreme devotion, lively antics, and unmistakable elegance. For those smitten with this breed, no other cat will do! With proper care, exercise, and love, the Turkish Angora is sure to delight as it lives out its reign as Turkey’s beloved good luck charm.