The Turkish Angora Cat Is Playful, Loyal, and Simply Stunning

The Turkish Angora is a natural breed known for its silky coat, bushy tail and graceful build. It typically sports a single coat that feels soft and fine, unlike the double-layered coats of other longhair breeds.

Though the traditional color is white, Turkish Angoras come in a variety of hues, including blue cream, dilute calico, solid blue, and more.

Originating in Turkey, the breed gets its name from Ankara, formerly Angora. The Ankara Zoo, established to preserve the breed, spearheaded a breeding program focused on white Angoras with distinctive eye colors.

The zoo prioritized producing cats with one blue eye and one amber or gold eye, creating the stunning odd eyed white male and amber eyed white female combinations. These cats stood out not only for their looks but also for their significance as a national treasure.

The earliest written reference to the Angora cat appears in 16th-century European texts, praising the breed's unique coat and elegance.

Outside Turkey, interest in the breed spiked after World War II when American servicemen brought home these beautiful cats. Their popularity surged when breeder Walter Grant helped establish the Turkish Angora in the U.S.

By the 1970s, Turkish Angoras were recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association for championship status, and the breed gained further credibility with groups like International Cat Care. Today, they’re beloved by cat breeders, cat fanciers, and pet lovers worldwide.

The Turkish Angora's most distinguishing feature is its silky fur, which flows like water and resists matting. Combine that with a lean frame, a wedge-shaped head and a plumed tail, and you've got a showstopper.

Eye color is another standout trait. These cats may have blue, green gold, amber, or even the rare two-toned eye configuration. This look is especially common in white Turkish Angoras, a category favored in many show standards.

Personality-wise, Turkish Angoras are dynamic. They're known to entertain guests, climb curtains, and open cabinets in search of adventure.

These aren't aloof ornaments; they bond closely with their human companions and thrive in environments with other pets, including dogs and other cats. Their intelligence makes them curious and creative, so expect them to find their way into places you thought were off-limits.

As pets, Turkish Angoras are high-energy but affectionate. They're often called lap cats, yet they balance cuddling with bursts of acrobatics. Kittens are especially lively, but adult cats retain their playful streak.

They’re social animals that enjoy the company of humans and other animals. Some owners note that Angoras seem to form stronger bonds with people than other cats, often following their owners from room to room.

Despite their dainty appearance, Turkish Angoras are generally healthy cats. However, hereditary deafness is more prevalent in all white cats, especially those with blue eyes. A reliable Turkish Angora breeder will test for this and monitor for heart disease and other health problems.

If you're in the market for a Turkish Angora, start with a reputable breeder. Look for transparency in health screenings, pedigrees, and a solid feeding guide. An ideal Turkish Angora kitten will have clear eyes, a soft coat, and an alert, curious demeanor.

Some breeders specialize in specific coat colors, like white coat, dilute calico, or the rare blue cream. Ask if the kitten comes from two cats who have been screened for inherited conditions. Check whether the kitten exhibits any early signs of hearing issues, especially if it has one blue eye or is odd-eyed.

Not all breeders follow the same standards, so it pays to research through associations like the Cat Fanciers Association or International Cat Care. Avoid breeders who downplay the needs of white cats or don't acknowledge potential hearing issues.

Good cat breeders will be upfront about both the beauty and responsibilities of caring for this breed.

Turkish Angora kittens are known for their fast development and early signs of curiosity. As they grow, they exhibit the breed’s signature energy and affection. Early socialization with other pets and humans helps mold a well-rounded adult.

Kittens with one blue eye or odd-eyed coloring should have their hearing tested early. Responsible breeders track these traits and can advise on what to expect as the cat matures.

In the realm of longhair breeds, the Turkish Angora stands apart for its fine single coat and angular build. Unlike the denser, more rounded appearance of Persian cats, Angoras retain a sleek, athletic look.

Some other longhair breeds have double-layered coats that require daily grooming. The Turkish Angora’s coat, while luxurious, is relatively low-maintenance. That makes them a popular choice among owners who want elegance without the heavy grooming commitment.

Turkish Angoras are excellent companions for families with other pets, including other cats and dogs. They integrate well into multi-pet households and are gentle with children. Their desire to be near their human companions makes them especially suited for people who spend a lot of time at home.

They're not shy about joining social activities. Whether it’s following you to the kitchen or greeting guests at the door, Turkish Angoras love being part of the action.

In the broader cat world, Turkish Angoras are often highlighted in breed showcases and competitions. Their elegance and unique features make them standout entries among cat fanciers.

The Cat Fanciers Association and other organizations set the standards that define the ideal Turkish Angora, from their body type to their coat quality and eye color.

For breeders and exhibitors, maintaining the distinct traits of the Turkish Angora — like their silky fur, playful disposition, and wide range of coat color — is both an art and a science.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.