Turkish Angora
Turkey
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 2.5–5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–18 yrs
- intelligent
- lively
- affectionate
- assertive
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Turkish Angora
The Turkish Angora is a natural breed from central Turkey, long associated with Ankara. Preservation programmes in Turkey helped keep the breed going in the twentieth century. It is a graceful, fine-boned cat with a silky single coat, long tail and often white colour, though many colours are seen.
Temperament
Intelligent, lively and affectionate. Turkish Angoras are often assertive and enjoy being in charge, while remaining loving towards their family.
Play & activity
Active and agile. Needs high climbing spaces and daily play to stay happy, and often enjoys games that involve chasing or retrieving.
Grooming
The silky coat lacks an undercoat, so it mats less. Brush once or twice a week.
Care & wellbeing
White cats with blue eyes may be deaf in one or both ears. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and an inherited neurological condition, ataxia, have been reported in some lines.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 3.8 kg adult- Water
- 152 ml–228 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 230 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Turkish Angora
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Turkish Angora is a natural breed from central Turkey, with a fine, silky long coat. White cats are best known, but many colours exist. It is intelligent, playful and often prefers to be high up.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Deafness in white cats
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Ataxia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hearing tests
- Heart scans for HCM
Not every Turkish Angora is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–18 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Turkish Angora right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Turkish Angora get?
Adult Turkish Angoras typically weigh around 2.5–5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Turkish Angoras live?
Typically 12–18 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Turkish Angora?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Turkish Angora need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Turkish Angoras affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Turkish Angoras shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Turkish Angoras good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Turkish Angora live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Turkish Angoras have?
The breed can be prone to deafness in white cats, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (hcm), ataxia. Not every Turkish Angora is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.