Turkish Angora: history of the origin of the breed with tips for choosing a kitten, 50 photos

• Pets
• >>
• Cat breeds

* Here is a photo of a typical representative of the Angora cat breed . You can send us photos of your animals by email, and we will post them on the website. Don't forget to send your pet's name.

Other breed names:

Turkish Angora

Video

* We invite you to watch a video about the Angora cat . In fact, in front of you is a playlist in which you can select and watch any of 20 videos about a given cat breed by simply clicking on the button in the upper right corner of the window. In addition, the material contains quite a lot of photos. By looking at them you can find out what an Angora cat looks like.

History of the origin of Angora cats

The history of the origin of the Angora cat begins in the ancient Turkish city, on the site of which Ankara now proudly stands. It was here that angoras became interested in the emperors, who “invited” these wonderful pets to their palaces. Cats enjoyed special privileges among the Turkish nobility. Angora pets did not know what refusal was and walked proudly even in the mosque. It is quite possible that modern animals simply cannot forget the status of their ancestors and therefore behave at least like a king.

Angora cats were called Sultan cats and for a long time were found only in Turkey - the authorities strictly prohibited the export of pets outside the state. These pets were presented as gifts only to the most status guests of Turkey. And only thanks to them the animals managed to get to Europe and Russia. The first mentions of Angora beauties on this land date back to the 16th century. Later, during the Russian-Turkish wars, Angoras appeared in Russia mainly in the form of victory trophies.

Interesting fact: Cats were sent to America on purpose. They were transported there by ship. Thus, Marie Antoinette saved her beloved pets from the French Revolution.

The widespread use of Turkish Angoras almost resulted in a sad outcome for the breed. The fact is that in 1887, British felinologists created a new decree according to which all long-haired cats were considered Persian. Because of this, a real breeding boom occurred, active crossing of Angoras with Persians began, which led to the destruction of valuable gene pools of both breeds.

The alarm was declared only when, in terms of their numbers, Angora cats were practically classified as “Endangered.” A large program for the conservation of the breed and its development was launched by felinologists in Turkey. The provision turned out to be quite effective and is still in effect today.

Angora cat - description of the breed

From the history of the origin of Angora cats it becomes clear that these animals have royal roots. This guess is confirmed by the appearance and character of the graceful Angoras. Silky coat of varying lengths (medium and long), expressive eyes, fluffy tail and boundless elegance - this is how you can describe the pets of this breed.

The body of the angora is proportional and neat. Adult animals reach medium (very rarely large) size. Due to their physique, cats move very plastically, jump easily and walk smoothly.

Features of representatives of this breed also include:

• The ears are set high and pointed at the ends and are large in size. They stand out clearly against the background of the pet’s neat small muzzle;
• Almond-shaped eyes are blue, green or yellow. A common deviation from the norm is the different colors of the eyes, due to which the animals acquire an even more mysterious and attractive appearance;
• Silky, thick, iridescent coat. The coat remains in this condition until the pets are very old. These animals belong to the “Semi-longhair” category. The soft and smooth fur of cats makes you want to pet them endlessly. A special feature of the wool is its different lengths. If the fur on the neck is quite short, then on the tail it is as long as possible, due to which the “Ostrich feather” effect is achieved.

As adults, Turkish Angoras reach a weight of 4-6 kg and 3-5 kg ​​(males and cats, respectively). The height at the withers of such animals is 25-30 cm. The average life expectancy is 15 years. However, with proper care this figure increases to 20.

Application area

Thanks to enhanced heat-saving properties, angora products are unusually light and thin. Angora knitwear is famous for its springiness and elasticity. It will help out in frosty winters, but it won’t be hot in relatively warm weather either.

Clothing manufacturers use wool fabrics to make outerwear and casual clothing. An angora sweater will become a favorite item in the wardrobe for every woman. The range of clothing includes various products made from mohair and rabbit down: angora trousers, snoods, pullovers, jumpers.

Hats and accessories are fluffy and light. An angora beret attracts with its comfort and warms well; an angora scarf or shawl will emphasize the nobility of your everyday look.

Down is often used as a filling for winter clothes. A jacket or down jacket with angora will keep you warm in severe frosts. For those who freeze quickly, angora socks are recommended. They retain heat, do not absorb moisture, and their modest thickness does not force you to purchase winter shoes one size larger. On sale are men's and women's angora socks, as well as products made from the wool of angora and other animals: llamas, sheep, camels.

Cashmere-angora is one of the successful combinations where both components are considered elite and expensive. Children's angora socks are no less popular, and hypoallergenic down is found in clothing for newborns.

Fans of knitted items will find knitted angora suits, scarves, boleros and ponchos. A hand-knitted angora skirt is not very practical, but a product made from rolled fabric will fit into a business wardrobe. An angora cardigan will diversify your everyday and office look, and an angora coat will be the highlight of your autumn wardrobe.

There are also interior items made from elite fabric, but more often the delicate fluff is used for clothing. An angora vest will be a gift for a man, and an angora tunic will delight women who know a lot about fabrics. A hat and mittens made of angora will bring joy to both adults and children.

Popular colors of Angora cats

The classic and most popular color of Angora cats is pure white. It is the pets of this color that are most popular in Turkey and are considered true Angoras. Subsequently, after numerous selections, felinologists managed to develop a huge variety of coat colors.

The most popular among them are:

• Black is a charcoal dark, monochromatic shade. Paw pads and skin are black or dark brown;
• Red – deep brownish-red color without darkened or lightened areas. Only the paw pads and nose differ from the main color, which are painted brick;
• Blue is a monochromatic light color that shimmers with light shades. The color of the pads and coat are almost identical;
• Cream – soft peach color, the same throughout the body. Paw pads are pink;
• Black smoke is a combination of white undercoat and deep black fur. The multi-tone color is noticeable mainly when the cat moves. Paw pads are blue;
• Marble tabby is a patterned color, with a pronounced headband and clear patterns on the body. The lines are located mainly on the back - smoothly descending from the head. All patterns are parallel to each other. Small stains on the sides are surrounded by a large circle. In the neck area there are clear lines reminiscent of a necklace. The limbs are ringed with small-diameter bracelets;
• The brindle tabby is a patterned color, the characteristic feature of which is the presence of a continuous line running from the eyes to the back of the head. The body of the animal is outlined by small stripes, reminiscent of the color of a tiger. The limbs are also edged;
• Silver tabby is a silvery, non-solid color. Black patterns are clearly visible;
• Cream tabby is a monochromatic light shade with small patterns that are 1-2 shades darker than the main color;
• Bi-color - any shade in combination with basic white (black and white, blue and white, cream and white, etc.).

Despite the fact that only white Angoras are recognized in Turkey, the pet can be any color. The only exceptions are chocolate and lilac shades, which are uncharacteristic for this animal.

Character and habits of Angora cats

Angora cats have pronounced “royal” manners. These animals are extremely elegant and discreet. They get along well with people, quickly become attached to their owners and serve them faithfully until the end of their days. Angoras are very inquisitive and intelligent. Because of these qualities, these cats are often compared to dogs. Angora pets are able to learn several commands. Particularly patient owners were able to train the animals to fetch objects in their teeth and close/open doors. It is quite difficult to train such cats, but it is possible. Angoras are big water lovers. Not only are they not afraid of it, but they also have a positive attitude towards the idea of ​​“swimming in the bathtub.”

No less interesting character traits of pets are:

• Goodwill. Cats are kind to people and other pets. They are not afraid of new acquaintances, as they always feel like leaders;
• Hunting habits. Angoras can give their owner a trophy in the form of a mouse or lizard. The main thing is not to leave the parrot (if you have one) unattended;
• Patience. Despite their royalty and leadership, Angora cats are quite patient. This is especially noticeable when they communicate with children;
• Persistence. Turkish animals do not tolerate their requests being ignored. They will meow continuously until the owner fulfills their demands;
• Curiosity. Pets are very inquisitive and study with genuine interest new toys purchased by the owner;
• Sensitivity. Angoras sense a person’s mood and his attitude towards himself. They do not like loneliness and have difficulty withstanding their owner’s long trips;
• Playfulness. Representatives of this breed are quite active and mobile. At the same time, playfulness largely depends on the current mood.

Angora cats are suitable for those people who really love animals and are willing to devote enough of their time to them. Those who are constantly at work or often go on business trips should not purchase them. The pet will be very sad when alone. If a long-term absence from home cannot be avoided, you should buy a good angora friend with whom the cat can spend its time.

Compound

Initially, angora was understood as a material obtained from goat down. Now angora fabrics are made from the down of a special breed of rabbits. This raw material is not as durable, but much cheaper. Natural wool itself cannot boast of strength, so additional fibers are introduced into it, which improves the technical characteristics.

So, the composition of angora includes acrylic, polyester and viscose. Sheep wool and synthetics are combined with Angora rabbit down: nylon, lyocell, polyamide. The higher the synthetic content, the better the thread holds its color, so bright angora yarn often contains no more than 20% fluff.

Interesting facts about Angora cats

Angora cats are unique animals, interesting for their appearance, history of origin and habits. They never cease to amaze their owners throughout their lives.

At the same time, there are several interesting facts that few people know and which all lovers of this breed should know about.

Here are some of them:

• The Turks officially cemented their love for Angoras in 2015. It was at this time that the first coins with the image of this animal were issued in Turkey. Other countries also issued collectible coins with Angora cats. Such money is quite popular among collectors;
• Many animal lovers choose Angora cats because of their amazing eyes of different colors. Many people associate this demand with an ancient Turkish legend. According to it, the father of all Turks promised to give all his power to the person who was bitten by a white angora with multi-colored eyes;
• A distinctive feature of Angora cats is the ability to meow to themselves. Animals often “talk” with their mouths closed;
• All Angoras are very clean. They keep their snow-white fur in perfect condition under any circumstances. There is even a legend that Turkish rulers used these animals to wipe their hands on them after meals. The pets quickly washed off the dirt and regained their whiteness on their own;
• The Angora cat often acts as an actor. Thus, it was the representative of this breed who starred in the cartoon “Aristocrats” and the film “The Raven”.

Such pets will never make their owner bored and will always help him cope with a bad mood. Angora cats are good psychologists. Thanks to their excellent sense of smell, they quickly understand the condition of their owner. If he is sad, the pet will sit on his lap and purr. If the owner is in a good mood, the animal will support him with its playfulness.

Types and their properties

Fabric and yarn made from goat and rabbit down differ in composition and properties. Does rolled angora fabric stretch or not? If it is knitwear, then the level of elasticity will be high. Suit and coat fabrics do not have such stretchability. Not least important are production technologies that make it possible to produce materials with unique characteristics. Let's highlight the main types of angora:

• mohair - exclusively goat hair with a slight addition of acrylic fibers and the hair of other animals;
• Angora itself - may contain mohair, but more often includes synthetic additives that make rabbit fluff stronger. It should not be confused with the Persian Angora, since this name hides a cat of the Turkish breed;
• Lana is a pure wool yarn, but the goat down content may be small. The composition also contains sheep, camel or other wool, which changes the properties of the material;
• angora with lurex - also metallic, contains metallized particles that make the thread shiny and prevent the finished product from stretching;
• Angora melange is an interlacing of threads of various colors, forming a grainy pattern. Melange fabric is used to make suits and outerwear;
• suprem is an elastic material containing lycra. The softest knitwear produces delicate items that are not prone to deformation;
• mixed fabric - Angora 80 and Angora 70 produced by BBB are especially valued, where the number indicates the percentage of wool. Polyamide and/or merino wool is used as an auxiliary thread. The Italian brand BBB produces luxury yarn with a similar marking, which is intended for exceptional knitting. The high content of wool in the composition and a rich palette distinguish the products of this brand. There are black, white and colored angora on sale, including pastel colors and melange.

Angora fabric. Photo

Pros and cons of Angora cats

Graceful, intelligent, caring Angora cat. Could she have any shortcomings? Unfortunately yes. But I still want to start with the advantages of these animals.

The main advantages of angoras are:

• Cute appearance;
• Pleasant wool texture;
• Positive and calm character;
• High (for animals) mental abilities;
• Tendency to train;
• Cleanliness;
• Devotion.

Turkish Angoras do everything for their owner. They quietly wait for him at the door during working hours and do not take a step away from him after returning home. These cats are aristocratic and simple at the same time. They will not use a dirty tray and will stubbornly meow around it until the owner changes the litter. At the same time, the animals are not too demanding in care.

As for the disadvantages, the main one is increased molting of animals. When getting an Angora, be prepared for the wool to fill the entire house. This is due to the thickness and length of the animals’ fur. Hairs often fall out and are replaced by new ones. If there are people with allergies in the house, then buying an Angora pet is definitely not the best idea.

No less important disadvantages also include:

• Stubbornness and capriciousness;
• Fearfulness and jealousy;
• Increased activity (the pet may want to play even in the dead of night);
• High appetite.

At the same time, those who had the opportunity to be the owner of an Angora cat confirmed the insignificance of all these disadvantages. The animal's shortcomings are fully offset by its advantages. Often, negative behavioral traits can be eliminated with the help of proper education. But such “adjustment” of a pet is possible only at an early age (mainly up to six months).

Flaws

The main disadvantage of the fabric is considered to be capriciousness in care. If you do not take care of a product made from natural down, it will quickly lose its attractiveness. Let us not ignore the high price of fabric, including knitwear and coat-type angora.

Downy items do not like washing and pill when in contact with water. It is more difficult to care for outerwear, so manufacturers do not use pure wool fabric, but a blend with the addition of synthetics, which increases the resistance of the material to external influences.

Among other disadvantages of the material:

Breeding Angora cats

Intentional breeding of Angora cats began only in the 20s of the 20th century. Such measures were necessary in order to prevent the breed from becoming extinct. For 40 years, Turkish felinologists fought to preserve this individual and actively bred white fluffy cats. All this time, a strict ban was imposed on the export of these animals.

Interesting fact: To cross the border with an Angora cat, it was necessary to obtain special permission. It was also issued to two women who were wives of US military officials. It was they who managed to take the unique breed overseas, where the breeding of the Angora cat began, not to preserve the population, but to spread the breed throughout the world. This happened in the 60s of the last century.

Already 10 years after the start of Angora breeding (in 1973), these animals were identified by felinologists as a separate breed. In 1979, the Angora cat was recognized by the International Cat Association, and 15 years later, European felinologists officially expanded the number of shades allowed for this breed.

Today, Angora breeding is carried out by both professional felinologists (breeders) and amateurs (breeders/breeders). The former are distinguished by a more serious approach to this activity. They breed only breeding animals, carefully selecting partners based on numerous criteria (character, color, pedigree). Breeders sell animals directly from shelters, where the buyer can evaluate the living conditions of the pet, its characteristics and features of the appearance and behavior of the parents.

Breeders approach breeding Angoras from the material side. For them, what is more important is not the purity of the breed, but the fastest possible profit. As a rule, breeders sell the offspring of their pets “from hand” through message boards and social networks.

If you want to buy a breeding cat, be prepared to pay a lot of money. Such animals cannot be cheap, since entire associations are involved in the development of their population. A distinctive feature of breeding Angoras is the presence of Turkish roots in the pedigree.

How much does a Turkish Angora cost?

On average, the price depends on pedigree, gender, color and availability of documents, ranging from 5 to 15 thousand rubles. A white Angora with multi-colored eyes is valued much more, since Turkey considers such an animal sacred.

It is better to buy kittens in trusted places. Turkish Angora nurseries are engaged in professional breeding of the breed. When buying a kitten secondhand, there is a high probability of purchasing a non-purebred animal.

The Turkish Angora cat is larger, behaves imposingly and tries to show his wayward character. A mixed breed Angora cat can be very similar to a purebred animal; only a specialist can find the differences.

When purchasing an Angora kitten, it must be healthy, cheerful, with smooth, shiny fur. Angora kittens must have a vet. passport and pedigree. Angora cats have all the best qualities with which they were awarded by nature itself in ancient times. The Turkish Angora attracts attention with its gracefulness, energy and intelligence.

Caring for Angora cats

Wool is the main drawback of Angora cats. It is in its processing that the main difficulties of caring for an animal lie. It is necessary to comb your pet (during shedding) every day. In normal times, this procedure should be carried out as needed (at least once a week).

In addition, to maintain the cleanliness and structure of the coat, the animal should be washed periodically. This can only be done using specialized cat shampoos. Conventional products (which people use) can only spoil the structural features of the hairs and harm the pet’s skin. Thanks to Angoras' love for water, their bathing is as comfortable and even interesting as possible. It's not just the animal's fur that needs to be taken care of.

Here are some recommendations for caring for representatives of this breed:

1. Brush your teeth regularly (1-3 times a week). For this procedure, you should use only special formulations, which can be purchased at a zoological store;
2. Check your cat's eyes and ears daily. Dirt should be removed with a cotton swab or cotton cloth. If the discharge is too profuse (which has not been observed before), you need to contact a veterinarian;
3. Get a scratching post and don't forget to trim your nails regularly. This procedure should be carried out as necessary using special tweezers;
4. Keep an eye on the animal's litter box. Contaminated litter not only repels the animal, but is also a source of bacteria that can adversely affect the health of the pet.

There are no supernatural rules for caring for an Angora cat. These animals do not require special treatment. They do an excellent job of cleaning wool from dirt on their own. And thanks to the presence of undercoat, combing the pet does not cause much trouble to its owner.

What kind of fabric

Angora wool is the result of processing raw materials from Angora goats or rabbits. On the market, natural angora is represented by mohair and delicate yarn made from rabbit fluff. According to reviews, wool fabrics from Angora goats are not as delicate, although much depends on the quality of processing. But the strength of goat down is many times higher, for this reason it is more valued.

Yarn for knitting and weaving threads are obtained by twisting the finest fluff. The resulting raw materials are used to make knitted products or knitted fabric. Angora fabric makes warm sweaters and jumpers, beautiful hats and mittens. If angora knitwear is used to make elite clothing, the latter turns out to be extremely comfortable and is expensive.

There is no clear definition of what angora material is. It is safe to say that angora is natural wool in different forms: in the form of yarn, threads, rolled fabric. If this is a fabric, then it can also be different: dense angora is used for making outerwear, thin and elastic - for delicate items.

Knitted products made from goat down are cozy and soft in appearance. Dyes do not adhere well to fluff, so the priority is the natural colors of angora - those that nature itself created: white, gray, fawn. There are chocolate and black colors, as well as melange. For those who don’t know what it is, let’s explain: according to the description, melange is threads of different shades twisted into one. The melange pattern and the haze formed by the bristling down create a stunning effect.

Diet of Angora cats

Up to 1-2 months, Angora cat cubs feed primarily on mother's milk. Feeding is introduced only when the animal becomes independent. The first food is dry food.

Transfer to it should be carried out directly in the nursery, where specialists can quickly assess the animal’s reaction to one or another component and replace it if necessary. As for older cats, they are not picky about food.

The diet of animals can be of two types:

• Artificial. Pets can only eat formula and canned food without harm to their health. The main thing is to give preference to only premium-level feed. Otherwise, the cat may simply refuse such feeding or may not be able to receive all the microelements necessary for good health;
• Natural. Angoras were not bred artificially. Hundreds of years ago they ate the same food as humans. Therefore, even today the animal tolerates natural feeding very well. If you decide to feed your pet the right foods, then keep in mind that his daily diet must contain at least 30% protein, 60 different nutrients, and easily digestible fats.

Angora kittens eat 4-5 times a day. For older pets, this frequency is reduced to 2-3 times a day. The animal should be fed at strictly prescribed times. After eating, it is better not to disturb your pet, but to give him the opportunity to digest the nutrients he receives. Such strict rules are associated with the tender stomach of Angoras.

The angora's diet must be periodically changed and supplemented. Boiled beef, chicken, and turkey can serve as an additional treat. You can feed your pet vegetables (in any form), eggs, cereals, potatoes and cottage cheese. But giving cream, pork and raw milk to your Angora cat is not recommended. Such products can cause stomach irritation, which can cause the occurrence/development of diseases.

Choosing a kitten

The best way to get a fluffy ball of Angora breed is to contact a nursery. The price of a Turkish Angora ranges from 5,000 to 15,000 rubles. It all depends on the color of the kitten. Elite kittens cost up to 25 thousand rubles.

When choosing a furry pet, pay attention to such qualities as:

• Age – at least 3 months. Feeds independently, is litter box trained;
• Playfulness - the kitten should be cheerful and active;
• Hearing - check the reaction with a clap near each ear;
• Clean eyes and ears;
• The stomach should be soft; if it is elastic, there may be worms.

We should not forget about all the necessary documents confirming vaccinations, status and pedigree. If you buy an Angora kitten from private breeders, all certificates are checked more carefully - you can be deceived.

Having brought home a new tenant, you need to introduce him to the territory of his residence. Show tray, food bowls. The Turkish Angora is a kind and faithful friend for many years.

Diseases and health problems

Angora cats are quite gentle and receptive animals. Despite active attempts by breeders to improve their health, not all ailments can be eliminated. Angoras are characterized by both congenital and acquired diseases.

The most common among them are:

1. Deafness. This disease is especially common among white animals. In recent years, thanks to the efforts of felinologists, the percentage of congenital deafness has noticeably decreased;
2. Diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The main cause of this type of disease is a lack of nutrients in the diet and poor heredity. Dysplasia and limb dysfunction are the most common;
3. Nervous system disorders. The most common disease of the central nervous system is ataxia. It may occur due to damage to the spinal cord or peripheral nerves. The disease affects the motor functions of the body, without in any way affecting the mental abilities of the animal or its life expectancy;
4. Diseases of the cardiovascular system. Heart pathology is most often transmitted from parents. Usually it proceeds violently and almost always ends in a shortening of life;
5. Urolithiasis. The formation of stones in the urinary tract provokes the disease urolithiasis. This disease is most common among obese animals.

Chronic and congenital diseases must be included in the pet’s medical passport. Acquired diseases are indicated by such signs as: general fatigue, loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath, purulent discharge from the ears/nose. If such symptoms occur, it is recommended to take your animal to the veterinarian. Correctly and timely prescribed therapy will help not only cure the cat, but also prolong its life.

The prevention of any disease is proper nutrition, timely vaccination and regular visits to the veterinarian. A specialist must not only administer seasonal vaccinations, but also conduct tests that can help identify serious illnesses in the early stages.