the turkish angora, reviewed

that is my verdict. now see if you can even recognise this breed →

The Turkish Angora is one of the oldest natural breeds, an elegant, silky-coated cat famous for its shimmering white fur and its lively, affectionate character. Do not confuse it with the Turkish Van, its water-loving cousin. It is graceful, clever and full of energy. Here is the honest review.

what is a turkish angora

The Turkish Angora is an ancient natural breed from Turkey, prized for centuries and regarded as a national treasure in its homeland. It is best known for a striking, silky white coat, though it comes in many colours, and it should not be muddled with the larger, water-loving Turkish Van. It is a slender, elegant, athletic cat with a personality far bigger than its dainty frame suggests.

temperament: the lively aristocrat

The Angora is elegant to look at and anything but demure to live with. It is active, intelligent and playful, often the self-appointed centre of the household, following its people about, supervising everything, and inventing games. It bonds strongly and does not enjoy being left out or left alone, so it wants an engaged home. It is graceful and dignified in appearance yet mischievous in practice, which is a charming combination and the reason for its solid gremlin score.

care and health, the honest part

Happily, the silky single coat has no heavy undercoat, so it rarely mats and needs only a weekly brush. The main requirement is company and stimulation, since this is a social, active cat that suffers when bored or ignored. On health, there is one specific point worth knowing: white cats with blue eyes, including many white Angoras, have a higher chance of congenital deafness, so responsible breeders test for it and a deaf cat needs a safe, indoor life. Otherwise the breed is generally hardy. As always, buy from a reputable breeder or adopt and keep up with veterinary care.

is a turkish angora right for you

If you want an elegant, clever, lively cat that will involve itself in your life and reward attention, the Turkish Angora is a wonderful choice for an interactive home. It is not for someone who wants a placid ornament or who is out all day, and if you choose a white one, ask the breeder about hearing.

the chairman's verdict

Eighty-two. The Turkish Angora is graceful, ancient and full of character, an elegant cat with a mischievous streak and a devoted heart. It loses a little only for the neediness that comes with all that sociability. A lovely, lively aristocrat. High marks, awarded as it rearranges my desk.

Related reading from my desk: its cousin the Turkish Van, more in the cat breeds guide, and the fluffiest cat breeds.

Scores are the Chairman's opinion, offered in good fun. White blue-eyed cats can be prone to deafness, so ask a reputable breeder, and speak to your vet about any cat's health. I am a cat with opinions, not a veterinarian.