For my 6th passion blog about Istanbul, I decided to write about the street cats of Istanbul. In the bustling streets of Istanbul a certain population can be seen. Those are the street cats of Istanbul. They are seen everywhere, in restaurants, cafes, streets and parks. It is almost impossible to completely avoid them.  These street cats are not just ordinary strays, it is safe to say that they are a beloved and integral part of Istanbul’s culture. They are also very iconic.

Istanbul’s cats are more than just cute additions to the regular streets. They are a key aspect for many historical sites, attracting visitors and making those places even more appealing. These include the historically significant sites Hagia Sophia and Topkapi palace. In those places, cats can be seen interacting with the visitors and behaving in a cute way, and thus making those sites even more appealing and memorable.

Moreover, the cultural significance of these cats should not be underestimated. Cats hold a special place in Turkish culture, with references to them found in literature, folklore, and even religious texts. Certain cats have become so iconic that they became associated with certain streets/locations. One of these is the cat “Tombili” which became so iconic and popular that a statue of him was built on the street he roamed after his death.

Istanbul’s cats are also cared for and supported by the inhabitants of the city. Feeding them and providing shelter for them is a common activity done by Turkish citizens. It is especially common for feeding the cats that live one’s house. This is also an activity that me and my family commonly engaged in and something that we enjoyed. Providing medical care is also something done by the Turkish citizens. The inhabitants of Istanbul taking care of the street cats is a testament to the deep bond between the inhabitants of Istanbul and cats.

In conclusion, cats are a major part of Istanbul without a doubt.  These cats are a significant addition to the city’s culture, they attract visitors, improve the mood of the residents, make historical sites even more popular, and overall creates a positive spirit for the city. It is crucial to recognize all of the benefits that these animals can add to a city and take care of them.

Sources:

Istanbul Honours Beloved Stray Cat With A Statue After Death – News18

Why Are There So Many Cats in Istanbul? (legalnomads.com)