Cats of Istanbul: A Timeless Bond Between City and Feline

When you wander the streets of Istanbul, it’s impossible not to notice them: cats sunbathing on ancient stone walls, weaving between café tables, or napping comfortably inside historic mosques. These aren’t just strays — they are an inseparable part of the city’s heartbeat. The story of Istanbul’s cats is as layered as the city itself, blending history, culture, and a shared philosophy of coexistence.

A Port City with Natural Protectors

From the days of Byzantium to the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul’s bustling ports connected continents. Alongside goods and travelers came mice and rats, threatening food stores and trade. Cats quickly became the city’s silent protectors, keeping granaries, markets, and households safe. Their presence was not just welcome — it was essential.

Cats in Faith and Tradition

In Islamic culture, cats hold a special place. Stories tell of the Prophet Muhammad’s affection for them, praising their cleanliness and gentle nature. This deep respect carried into Ottoman society, where caring for animals was seen as a charitable act. Even today, many mosques in Istanbul offer food and shelter for cats, a gesture that continues centuries-old traditions of compassion.

Community Companions

What makes Istanbul unique is the way its people see cats. They are not viewed as pets or as nuisances, but as “community cats.” Shopkeepers leave out bowls of food and water, locals build tiny wooden houses along sidewalks, and fishermen share scraps with their furry friends by the Bosphorus. Cats are free to roam, loved but never owned — an arrangement that suits their independent spirit perfectly.

Modern Icons of the City

Today, cats are as much a part of Istanbul as its skyline of domes and minarets. They lounge on the steps of Hagia Sophia, curl up on café chairs, and pose gracefully for the countless visitors who photograph them. Their fame even reached international audiences in the acclaimed documentary Kedi (2016), which beautifully captured their role in urban life.

A Philosophy of Coexistence

Perhaps the most striking part of this relationship is the philosophy behind it. Istanbulites often say: “They don’t belong to us; they belong to the city.” This sense of shared guardianship creates a city where humans and animals live side by side in harmony. The cats, with their quiet resilience, reflect the spirit of Istanbul itself — independent, enduring, and endlessly captivating.

So if you find yourself in Istanbul, don’t be surprised when a cat curls up beside you in a café or wanders through a centuries-old courtyard. In this city, the cats are not guests — they are locals, with stories and roots as deep as the city’s own.

👉 Travel Tip: If you’re visiting Istanbul, take a moment to sit with the cats. They may not need you, but they’ll happily share their city with you — and perhaps, in their quiet way, teach you a little about coexistence.