"Meet The Cats of Istanbul: The Unofficial Rulers of The City"

Did you know.. There is a legendary city in Turkey known for its deep-rooted love of stray animals, especially cats.

 

The city's name is Istanbul. In this city, cats and dogs are literally treated like royalty. This practice dates back centuries, from ancient beliefs to local care—meet the furry locals who "unofficially" rule the city streets.

 

 

 

 

Istanbul's Historic Bond Between Humans and Cats

Istanbul is the largest and most populated city in northwestern Turkey. This rich cultural and historical capital has a population of over 15 million residents.

 

 

Imagine this... You’re taking a virtual trip to the beautiful city of Istanbul. As you wander through ancient mosques, admire serene historical landmarks, and soak in the rich artistic and cultural landscapes—you’re completely immersed.

When you notice this...

Thousands of stray cats roam freely. Lounging on window sills, napping in cozy little makeshift shelters, and peeking through the spice markets where locals leave food right on the sidewalks.
This isn’t a dream. "Oh no, the residents take these strays seriously!" In Istanbul, these cats aren’t just strays—they’re honored citizens.

 

 

 

How did this come to be, you ask? Let's dive into a little history, shall we?

Since the days of the Ottoman Empire, there has been a historic bond between humans and cats. These feline friends hold a sacred status in Turkish culture. "It's simple—Cats and animals are loved and protected by the citizens."

 

 

 

In Islam, it is considered a religious duty to treat animals well. Believed to be spiritually pure, cats are often welcomed in mosques, homes, and public spaces.

Many Turks believe cats bring healing energy or possess good luck, especially Black cats, which play an opposite role in Western folklore or superstition.

Prophet Muhammad’s fondness for cats is well-known, and that reverence has carried through generations. Today, it's not unusual to see a cat curled up on a prayer rug or being fed outside a bakery by a local.

 

 

How do the Residents of Istanbul care for the strays?

 

Sadly, in some cities where stray animals are often shooed away, it's just the opposite in Istanbul. The residents feed, care for, and shelter cats as if they were community family members. "This warms my soul."😇 

 

A lavish life of gourmet food, DIY shelters to sleep in, and daily cuddles wrapped in care and compassion—this is the norm for Istanbul’s furry friends. They live a life of their own. Humans are merely their convenient caretakers.

“Now why can’t my cat be like that? She’s always up in my business, no matter what I’m doing.”

Just kidding—Luuuv you, Minnie-Min Min 😘😻

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Who takes care of the strays in Istanbul?

• Shelters - Shelters are located throughout the city and are kept clean and safe by volunteers. the shelters are a great place to offer warmth and a place to sleep, as well as medical care.
• Neighborhood volunteers - Volunteers in neighborhoods work together to ensure neighborhood cats are fed and healthy.
• Veterinarians and Clinics - The City of Istanbul employs veterinarians and funds several veterinarian clinics
• Independent Volunteers - Many independent volunteers help stray cats and dogs in Istanbul. For nearly a decade, a man, Özgür Nevres has dedicated his time and money to rescue, feed, and provide medical care to stray dogs and cats. It all started with one cat-mama. You can read all about Özgür Nevres's heart-warming story HERE.
• NGO Organizations - (Non-Governmental Organizations) working independently for the health and well-being of animals and human welfare.

 

 

What can we learn from Istanbul's stray cat culture?

As I have been reading and learning about the care and compassion that Istanbul offers stray cats and dogs, it made me re-think how we, as communities in other areas of the world, view our stray cat culture. The city of Istanbul demonstrates that coexisting isn't just possible—it's enriching.

If more awareness were shared in areas where people would not have given a second thought to a stray, it would challenge us to rethink how we relate to animals in our urban spaces and how we care for them. "I know that it has created more of an awareness in me!"

 

Inspired by Istanbul's love for cats? I know I am. I invite you to celebrate the spirit with our original T-shirt design: "Istanbul Cats—The Unofficial Rulers" by clicking the link HERE.

Final thoughts.

Imagine American cities with community-funded cat shelters or local shops leaving out kibble bowls as part of their sidewalk decor. Istanbul reminds us that compassion can be cultural—and it can be contagious.

Have you ever met a street cat with personality? Drop your story in the comments below and share the love.