The Turkish Angora
The Ankara Cat: a Treasured Breed of Domestic Felines
This lithe and silky domestic cat is making a comeback as one of the oldest, and most beautiful, pedigree breeds.
The Ankara Cat is a delicate breed, that was nearly made extinct by breeders using them to improve the coat of the Persian. Prone to genetic illness, the Turkish Angora kitten can die early from ataxia (a neurological sign and symptom of gross incoordination of muscle movement), or HCM (a disease of the heart muscle in which a part is thickened). Thankfully, the Government of Turkey, in conjunction with the Ankara Zoo, began a breeding program in 1917 to preserve this beautiful white cat, especially prizing the rare variety with one blue, and one amber eye.
Pedigree
The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) first accepted the entirely white Turkish Angora as a pedigreed breed in 1973, later accepting other colourations in 1978. Still a small gene pool, the numbers are continually growing. Prices of the Turkish Angora depends on colouration and markings and are usually ready for retail at approximately sixteen weeks.
Eyes
Typically, green, blue or amber, the cat can even be odd-eyed, where one eye is blue, and the other, amber. However, those smitten with the blue eyed variety should be aware that the blue eye can indicate the cat is deaf on that same side, but even these can lead a normal life provided they are kept domestically indoors. Eyes are almond shaped.
Physicality
Most often known for their white, fine and smooth medium to long length coat, no undercoat and very fine bone structure, the Turkish Angora can be black, blue, or ginger, tabby, grey, but never pointed, lavender, chocolate or cinnamon denoting a hybrid. The fur of this Angora does not usually mat, but does require weekly brushing to remove excess hair and keep the coat silky soft, possibly required more often in the summer when shedding occurs most often. The ears are classically large and pointed, and the head is large. The body is long and lean, followed by a long tail that is parallel to the back. Related to the Persian and Turkish Van, this domestic breed is one of the oldest naturally occurring breeds (traceable back to the 16th century), hailing from the Ankara region in Turkey. Since this region is mountainous, the long coat can probably be attributed to adaptive protection to the high winds and cruel winters.
Psychology
They are a shimmery, elegant and highly intelligent breed of cat which is very active and curious.
Some words to describe them are:
- outgoing
- affectionate
- rare
- beautiful
- adaptable
- loving
- playful
They are known for having a long life span and some enjoy bathing. They form intense bonds with their owners and can be very vocal. Turkish Angoras do not generally enjoy “cuddling” and are best left to come to your lap or nearby for a pat, but they do enjoy scratching; however, declawing is not recommended by the CFA. They will accept dogs into their home, but they are highly assertive and therefore, they are the alpha in the home. With this doglike nature, they will most likely be the first to welcome your visitors and act as the host(ess) to your party.
