Origin
The Turkish Angora takes its name from the Turkish capital Ankara, formerly called Angora. It is one of the oldest cat breeds, perhaps the oldest semi-longhaired breed. Specimens were imported to Western Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries. The breed almost disappeared but was saved by the Ankara Zoo, which maintained a controlled breeding programme.

Character
The Turkish Angora is a lively, playful and highly intelligent cat. Affectionate and curious, it forms strong bonds with its owners. Agile and athletic, it loves to climb and explore.

Care
Despite its long silky coat, maintenance is relatively simple as it has virtually no undercoat. Weekly brushing is sufficient to prevent tangles.

Body: medium to large, semi-foreign, slender and muscular.

Head: modified wedge, slightly longer than wide.

Eyes: large, almond-shaped, slightly oblique. All colours accepted including odd-eyed.

Ears: large, set high, very widely spaced, pointed.

Tail: long, broad at base tapering to tip, very full.

Coat: semi-long, fine, silky, with little or no undercoat.

Colour: all colours accepted. White is most traditional.