Despite its elegant and graceful appearance the Turkish Angora possesses a strength and force of will that seems much more suited to a cat of a more robust appearance. To further the illusion of its delicate presentation the Turkish Angora has one of the silkiest coats which gently caress the hands as you stroke it.
Extra-large and erect ears work with almond shaped eyes and a small to medium wedged shaped head to give the Turkish Angora the appearance of a slightly startled rabbit. Eye color varies between blue, amber, or a combination of the two (odd eyed). Forelegs are slightly shorter than the hind legs and end with small round paws that are tufted between the toes.
Turkish Angora lovers take particular delight in the plumed tail, mane, and knickerbockers. Traditionally sporting a white coat the Turkish Angora can now be found in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Turkish Angora Cat Personality
Most owners of Turkish Angoras will state that they are sweet and sociable, with a very gentle nature. Despite being nice to look it’s rare for a Turkish Angora to be sitting still. This is a good thing as their beauty is much more apparent when you see how graceful and fluid they are when animated, coat shimmering with every movement of their well-muscled body.
They are energetic and inquisitive by nature, making them excellent hunters who will stalk a feather toy or a rodent with equal amounts of zeal. Turkish Angoras need an owner who has a level of firmness to match their strong will, a testament to their high level of intelligence.
Most Turkish Angoras prefer to survey the world from high up perches – a much more efficient way to satisfy their limitless curiosity.
Did You Know?
One of the oldest longhaired breeds in the world, Turkish Angoras can trace their ancestry back to imports from Turkey, and from there back to the original wild cat. This creates a cat who carries their instincts much closer to the surface than other breeds of domesticated cats.
In the late 19th century the breed almost became extinct, until a concerted breeding program was established to save them at Ankhara zoo. They focused on white coats with blue, amber or odd coloured eyes which were, and still are regarded as a national treasure.
Turkish Angoras are also known for their fascination with water. This is also a throwback to their wild roots as they often swam rivers in pursuit of a tasty fish meal.
Caring for Your Turkish Angora Cat
Grooming at least twice a week is recommended for the long hair breeds to prevent ingestion of hair and hairballs. This is not the chore it is in other long haired breeds of cat, as the hair is so silky smooth that the brush passes through it effortlessly.
A bath is also recommended every two or three months for the white haired variety. Colored variants should be able to go a few weeks longer between baths.
Other than regular bathing and grooming the only thing this breed needs is a lot of love and attention from a devoted human.
Have you ever met a Turkish Angora cat? Please share your experiences in the comments below.
Had one when I was a kid. He came to us as a a stray kitten…he was the best cat we ever had.
i am thinking of getting a cat, but i want them to like the water and not mind going on walks outside….any ideas?
My human’s boyfriend’s brother had a couple of Turkish Angoras – my human says they were awesome kitties!
Such a beautiful breed. All cats are beautiful, but these seem especially regal.
I have a 4 year old female two different color eyes she’s the most amazing cat I’ve ever had and I’ve had plenty of cats and love them all to pieces but she is something special. Absolutely stunning.