Records of the Turkish Angora have been around since the 16th century. It is even rumoured that Prophet Muhammad even owned a Turkish Angora. The Angora is called “Ankara kedisi” in Turkish, which translates as “Cat from Ankara (Angora).” The Turkish Angora is the national animal of Turkey.
Thanks to its warming undercoat, the Turkish Angora is perfectly protected against the icy winds of the southern Caucasus in winter. In summer, its fur thins out considerably, which makes it insensitive to heat.
Due to its gentle and elegant nature, it quickly became popular in the region. Still, it was not until the 1980s that the Turkish government allowed its export and worldwide breeding.
The appearance of the Turkish Angora
The Turkish Angora differs from the other well-known semi-long-haired breeds such as Maine Coon or Siberian cat. The Turkish Angora’s fur has much less undercoat, which is why it is less voluminous.
On the other hand, the long top hair is very smooth and silky. Their physique is also unique for a semi-long-haired cat. The elongated, muscular and graceful body is supported by slender legs, which gives it a certain grace. The bushy tail is long and does not lose its fullness even in summer.
The most common color is white. This is where the odd-eyed color characteristic of the eyes occurs particularly often, in which one eye is blue and one is yellow. But be careful: in this case, the cat’s hearing ability on the side of the blue eye may be impaired. Breeders should therefore be able to prove that both parents passed an audiometric hearing test without any problems.
Otherwise, the beautiful fur of the Turkish Angora can come in any color, except for Chocolate, Lilac, Fawn, and Point badges. There are no restrictions on eye colors either.
The Turkish Angora: character and attitude
With the Turkish Angora, you bring a playful and intelligent cat into your home, which also wants and should be constantly challenged. She loves creative or challenging toys and brain teasers. This clever velvet paw also learns small tricks or fetching, for example, very quickly. But extensive pats should not be neglected, as the Turkish Angora is very people-oriented and social.
For these reasons, the Turkish Angora should not be kept alone. She will only keep its zest for life and its lively manner if she receives sufficient attention. A playmate is essential here! Solitude is also a taboo for the Turkish Angora. Otherwise, the cozy cat is a very uncomplicated pet, and even newcomers to the cat attitude forgive one or the other mistake.
Never a dull moment with the Turkish Angora cat
The “primeval mother” of all longhair cats, The Turkish Angora cat is a great and uncomplicated family cat that confidently and lovingly brings pep into your everyday life.
She will surprise you again and again with new ideas and games – never a dull moment with the Turkish Angora cat!