Discover the enchanting cats of Istanbul, freely roaming the streets and historic sites while being cared for by its people.
As a cat lover, I was delighted to see many cats in Istanbul—sunbathing on public benches, pouncing on each other in parks, even warming themselves before a lamp in Hagia Sophia. The cats seemed to rule the city.
They didn’t have the sad and furtive demeanor of strays, either. Most seemed to be healthy and well-fed. The reason, according to my guide in Istanbul, is that they are the Sultan’s Cats.
“Many years ago a sultan decreed that the cats in Istanbul were to be protected because they ate rats and mice,” he said, pointing to a particularly handsome tabby outside the Blue Mosque. “The people were to feed them and not harm them. And even to this day, the people still obey the Sultan’s order.”
I guess if one has an allergy to cats this wouldn’t be quite so charming, but I loved seeing the happy felines at the major sites in Turkey.
A Feline-Friendly Culture
The respect for cats actually goes back before the Sultans to the time of the Prophet Mohammed, who had a beloved cat named Muezza. One charming story tells how Muezza was sleeping one day on the sleeve of the Prophet’s robe when it was time for him to leave for prayers. Rather than disturb Muezza, he gently cut off the portion of his robe on which the cat was resting, leaving him undisturbed.
Ever since, cats have held a special place in Islamic culture. This reverence is reflected in the care and consideration the people of Istanbul show toward the feline population.
Cats here are not merely stray animals; they are seen as unofficial citizens of the city. Local residents and businesses take pride in feeding, sheltering, and caring for them. I saw many bowls of food and water placed outside shops, cafes, and homes, as well as homes for multiple cats in public parks (mini-apartment buildings, you might say).
The cats display a remarkable level of trust toward humans, often lounging in public spaces, interacting with passersby, or curling up on café chairs as if they own the place.
Cats have also found their way into Istanbul’s art, literature, and media and are often depicted in photography and street murals. Certain parts of Istanbul are especially well-known for their cat populations, including the historic Sultanahmet district, which is home to landmarks that include the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
The city’s feline population gained international fame with the 2016 documentary Kedi, which chronicles the lives of several street cats and their interactions with Istanbul’s residents. The film beautifully illustrates the profound bond between the city and its cats.
Despite the widespread love for cats, challenges remain. Overpopulation, disease, and neglect are issues that some cats face. Thankfully, many local organizations and volunteers are dedicated to addressing these concerns, providing veterinary care, and promoting sterilization campaigns to manage the population humanely.
The cats of Istanbul are more than just animals; they are a living symbol of the city’s soul, embodying its history, hospitality, and humanity.
Lori Erickson is one of America’s top travel writers specializing in spiritual journeys. She’s the author of books that include Holy Rover, Near the Exit, The Soul of the Family Tree, and Every Step Is Home. Her website Spiritual Travels features holy sites around the world.
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