Turkish Angora

Cat Breed Profile, Appearance, Personality, Characteristics, Care & Useful Information to Pet Owners

All You Need To Know

Owning a Turkish Angora In Malaysia

The Turkish Angora is a cat with beauty, personality and cultural heritage that makes them highly sought after as pets. Their striking appearance with white silky coats and captivating eyes makes them visually stunning.

As responsible parents, we highly encourage our clients to do ample research on their future furkids. From diets to enrichment and lifestyle, we believe that it is the parent’s responsibility to prepare the best living conditions for their furkids.

This article will delve into the history, physical traits, personality, care requirements, and reasons why Turkish Angora cats make amazing pets.

Breed overview

Personality

Talkative, playful, affectionate

Weight

Up to 4.5 kg

Length

Up to 51 - 76 cm

Coat length

Medium to long

Coat color

Black, White, Blue (grey), Red, Cream, Chocolate

Coat patterns

Solid, Tabby, Bicolor, Tricolour, Tabby, Colourpoint

Eye color

Blue, Amber, Heterochromatic

Lifespan

Up to 18 years

Hypoallergenic

No

Origin

Turkey

Turkish Angora Characteristics

A Turkish Angora cat is a distinct breed known for its elegant appearance, silky coat, and playful personality. They typically have a medium to long coat that can be pure white or various other colours and patterns, though white is most common. Turkish Angoras are known for their striking blue or amber eyes, and some individuals may have heterochromatic eyes (two different coloured eyes). They are agile and athletic, with a slender build, and are characterised by their affectionate and social nature.

Affection level

High

Friendliness

High

Kid-Friendly

Medium to High

Pet-Friendly

High

Exercise needs

Medium

Playfullness

High

Energy level

Medium to High

Trainability

Medium

Intelligence

High

Tendency to Vocalize

High

History & Origin

The Turkish Angora cat originates from Turkey (historically Anatolia), dating back centuries. Revered for its elegance and agility, it holds cultural significance as a national treasure in its homeland.

Grooming & Care

Similar to long haired breeds, Turkish Angora cats are considered moderate to high maintenance. Here are some grooming and care tips:

  • Brushing:

    Their silky coat needs regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Brushing a few times a week is recommended.

  • Bathing:

    Turkish Angoras generally do not require frequent bathing unless they get dirty. Use a mild cat shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing

  • Nail Trimming and Ear Cleaning:

    Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are essential parts of Turkish Angora care. Check their ears for dirt or wax buildup and clean as needed with a vet-approved solution.

  • Dental Care:

    Dental hygiene is important for Turkish Angoras. Regular brushing of their teeth and providing dental treats or toys can help prevent dental issues.

Health Issues

Turkish Angoras are generally healthy cats, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Aside from the usual roulette of diseases that include Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), Urinary tract issues, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and obesity, they may also face:

  • Deafness:

    Particularly in white-coated Turkish Angoras with Blue eyes

  • Genetic Conditions:

    Including certain inherited disorders like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and maintaining a stress-free environment can help mitigate these health risks and ensure a Turkish Angora’s overall well-being.

Diet and Nutrition

Turkish Angoras require a balanced diet to maintain their large size and overall health. Here are some dietary considerations:

  • High-Quality Protein:

    Being obligate carnivores (meaning their diet primarily consists of meat), Turkish Angoras need a diet rich in high-quality animal protein.

  • Balanced Nutrition:

    Ensure the cat food provides a balanced mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

  • Portion Control:

    Turkish Angoras are prone to obesity, so it's important to monitor their food intake and avoid overfeeding. Follow the feeding guidelines on the cat food packaging and adjust based on your cat's activity level and weight.

  • Fresh Water:

    Always provide access to fresh, clean water. Consider using a cat water fountain to encourage hydration.

Starting from only RM75 a month (or RM2.50 a day), Petchef’s team of vets and chefs can curate the perfect meal plan for your furkid! Each meal contains quality meat (chicken, beef, buffalo) or fish (salmon, tuna) and vegetables to ensure your furkid fulfils all their nutritional needs. No preservatives, no additives, no fillers or grains; only food they were born to eat.

Living with a Turkish Angora

Turkish Angoras are adaptable and can thrive in various living environments, from apartments to large homes. Here are some tips for living with a Turkish Angora:

  • Indoor vs. Outdoor:

    If you do choose to let your Turkish Angora cat outdoors, it's important to ensure they have a secure and supervised outdoor space or are trained to stay within a controlled area to minimise risks. Otherwise, a catio would be a safe option that also lets them “experience” the outdoors from the safety of being indoors.

  • Enrichment:

    Like all pets, they require enrichment to keep them mentally stimulated and physically active. Incorporating interactive play into their routines, scratching posts, vertical spaces, hideouts and perches as well as catios into your space will give them opportunities to explore and observe their surroundings. Rotating their toys and using puzzle feeders regularly can also keep them interested and save your couches from their bored claws.

  • Social Interaction:

    They often enjoy being petted, cuddled, and sitting on their owner's lap or beside them. Some also enjoy gentle grooming sessions especially if they have formed a strong bond with their pawrent.

  • Exercise:

    Turkish Angora cats are active and playful by nature, so they benefit from regular exercise to maintain their physical health and mental stimulation. They enjoy chasing and pouncing games that stimulate their natural hunting instincts. If safely supervised, outdoor enclosures or leash-walks in a secure area can provide opportunities for exploration and exercise while keeping them safe from outdoor hazards.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Turkish Angora

In Malaysia, there are several options for adopting or purchasing a Turkish Angora:

  1. Animal Shelters and Rescues: Check local animal shelters and rescue organisations. While Turkish Angoras might not be as common in shelters as domestic shorthairs, there’s still a chance of finding one in need of a loving home.
  2. Breeders: Look for reputable Turkish Angora breeders in Malaysia. Ensure they are registered with a recognized cat breeding association and follow ethical breeding practices. You can find breeders through online directories, cat shows, or recommendations from local veterinarians.
  3. Online Platforms: Websites and online forums dedicated to pets often have listings for Turkish Angora kittens or cats available for adoption or purchase. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of sellers before making any commitments.
  4. Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or Instagram may have local groups or pages where breeders or individuals post about Turkish Angoras available for adoption or sale.

Use Diligence

When adopting or purchasing a Turkish Angora, always prioritise the health and well-being of the cat. Ensure the seller provides health records, vaccinations, and proper documentation. It’s also essential to visit the cat in person, if possible, to assess its temperament and living conditions.

Conclusion

Turkish Angora cats make amazing pets due to their striking beauty, affectionate nature, and intelligence. They form strong bonds with their owners, enjoy interactive play, and are vocal communicators. Their adaptability to indoor living and playful demeanor make them ideal companions for families seeking a loving and engaging feline friend.

Pros of Turkish Angora Cats Cons of Turkish Angora Cats
Affectionate, intelligent, social and great for families
High energy and attention seeking
Low shedding
High climbers
Beautiful coat
Water Fascination

FAQs

Most common questions about Turkish Angoras

Starts from RM1500 to RM5000 or more if bred by reputable breeders.

Turkish Angora cats can be great companions for kids under the right circumstances. Their playful and affectionate nature can make them wonderful pets for families with children.

Turkish Angora cats are unique for their beauty, affectionate nature, intelligence, historic significance, playfulness, and adaptability as cherished companions.



Turkish Angora cats can be considered moderately high maintenance due to their grooming needs and energetic personalities. Regular brushing and interactive play are essential to keep them healthy and happy.

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Evelyn

Pet Expert & Writer

Evelyn is a knowledgeable pet expert and seasoned writer with many years of experience as a dedicated pet owner. She specializes in cat breeds, nutrition, and behavior, delivering well-researched and reliable information to empower pet owners with valuable insights.