On International Cat Day, few places in the world are more fitting to celebrate our furry feline friends than Istanbul. The city’s famous street cats have captured hearts worldwide, becoming one of the most charming symbols of Türkiye’s cultural identity.
From busy soccer pitches and ballet performances to metro stations and historic landmarks, cats are part of everyday life in this bicontinental city. These community cats are cared for by local residents, municipal feeding stations, public water bowls and innovative smart kiosks designed to support street animals.
It is easy to encounter Istanbul’s most famous residents almost anywhere. At the magnificent Hagia Sophia, cats have long been welcomed as they rest beneath ancient mosaics. Meanwhile, the lively Sultanahmet Square, located within the UNESCO Historic Areas of Istanbul, offers another chance to meet the city’s beloved feline inhabitants.
In the Galata neighbourhood, Istanbul Cat Museum celebrates the centuries-old relationship between Istanbul and its cats through feline-inspired artwork and exhibitions. The museum also raises awareness about the welfare of street animals.
Although Istanbul is perhaps the world’s best-known destination for street cats, it is not the only city in Türkiye where cats live alongside historical landmarks. Visitors can also find feline companions near attractions such as the Ancient Theatre of Aspendos in Antalya and the ancient city of Ephesus in Izmir.
A City Where Cats Belong
After walking through almost any neighbourhood in Istanbul, visitors often reach the same conclusion: Istanbul belongs to the cats.
A cat may be seen relaxing on the hood of a parked car, enjoying the warmth of the afternoon sun. Another may appear unexpectedly, rubbing against a stranger’s legs as if greeting an old friend. At a sidewalk café, a cat might curl up beside a diner, patiently waiting for a small treat.
Outside butcher shops and fishermen’s stalls, groups of cats often gather, hoping for a meal. Meanwhile, dedicated residents carrying bags of cat food can quickly attract dozens of furry followers.
This deep connection has made Istanbul one of the world’s most cat-friendly cities. The famous American writer Ernest Hemingway once wrote, “One cat just leads to another.” Many Istanbul residents appear to have embraced this philosophy.
An estimated 150,000 street cats roam Istanbul’s neighbourhoods. While some have homes, many live as community cats, cared for collectively by the people around them. Istanbulites grow up sharing their streets, homes and daily routines with these independent companions.
A tram may stop if a driver notices a cat drinking water on the tracks. A cat may ride alongside passengers on public transport. Another may cross the Bosphorus on a ferry. No single person officially owns these cats, yet the city collectively looks after them.
Centuries of Cat Culture in Istanbul
Istanbul’s relationship with cats stretches back centuries. Cats are believed to have originated from Egypt, where they were first domesticated. Ancient Egyptians considered cats sacred, while in Mesopotamia, including parts of present-day Türkiye, cats helped protect grain stores from rodents.
According to scientists, domesticated cats spread across the world from Anatolia approximately 10,000 years ago. As one of Istanbul’s oldest residents, cats witnessed the rise and fall of empires.
However, their special place in the city grew even stronger during the Ottoman Empire. While Ottoman sultans kept exotic animals such as leopards, cheetahs and tigers at Topkapı Palace, charitable foundations helped ensure stray animals received care.
Istanbul’s affection for cats was even reflected in the profession of mancacı, a traditional catsitter responsible for feeding and caring for street cats.
Cihangir and Moda: Istanbul’s Cat Capitals
Today, two neighbourhoods are particularly famous for their street cats: Cihangir on the European side and Moda on the Asian side.
According to local stories, cats arrived in Cihangir centuries ago when ships brought them to Istanbul’s harbour to control rats onboard. Some cats left the vessels and settled in the neighbourhood, adding to the diversity of Istanbul’s street cat population.
Today, bohemian Cihangir is considered one of Istanbul’s feline capitals. Colourful groups of cats roam the streets, resting wherever they please. The neighbourhood even inspired the comic character Bad Cat Şerafettin, whose adventures later became an animated film.
On the Asian side, Moda is another favourite destination for cat lovers. With its seaside promenade, cafés and relaxed atmosphere, the neighbourhood is home to cats and dogs living together peacefully.
For visitors hoping to observe Istanbul’s street cats in a more natural setting, parks such as Maçka, Göztepe and Fenerbahçe offer memorable encounters.
Meet the Cats of Istanbul
Istanbul’s cats have also embraced the digital age. Numerous social media accounts share daily photos and stories of the city’s most adorable residents, while hashtags such as #CatsOfIstanbul and #İstanbulCats continue to attract cat lovers worldwide.
However, visitors should remember that every cat has its own personality. Some are eager for attention, while others prefer to observe from a distance.
When approaching a street cat, it is best to be respectful. Crouch down to the cat’s level and slowly offer your hand for it to sniff. If the cat responds positively, a gentle pat may be welcome. If not, allow the cat to walk away.
After all, as the saying goes, in a cat’s eyes, everything belongs to cats. Perhaps the best approach is simply to let the cat make the first move.
Discover a different side of Türkiye this International Cat Day, where some of the most memorable travel experiences are not found in guidebooks, but in the company of a friendly feline.
For more information about travelling to Türkiye, visit GoTürkiye Official Tourism Website.
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