Istanbul’s Stray Cats in Photos: Street Cats Of Instanbul, Turkey

A woman drinking tea on her door stoop drops a hot dog to the ground.

A young man at a baked potato stand collects small scraps in a plastic bowl.

A gentleman in a tan jacket leaves handfuls of cat food along the eastern wall of Hagia Sophia.

And me? I pick the slices of deli meat out of my sandwich and drop them at my feet.

That is how Istanbul’s cats are fed.

The first thing I noticed as a first time visitor to Istanbul were all the domes and minarets; the second were the cats. Lots and lots of cats!

Most cities would regard an excess of strays as a bit of a nuisance, but in Istanbul it’s a completely different story. The stray cats are treated as the city’s pets, and they are collectively fed and taken care of. The cats come and go as they please, but wherever they may find themselves – strolling the walls of the Blue Mosque or sauntering down the streets of Cihangir – you can be sure that someone will be leaving food out for them.

A little research revealed that the reason why Istanbul’s cats are well looked after may have its roots in Islam. While reading up on the issue, I came across two legends in Islam: one of a cat who saved the prophet Muhammad from a poisonous snake, and another instance of how when the prophet Muhammad found a cat sleeping on his tunic, he simply cut a piece off the fabric so as to not disturb the sleeping cat. This along with the popular saying, “If you’ve killed a cat, you need to build a mosque to be forgiven by God,” may be the reason why Istanbul’s felines are so revered.

But now let’s meet some of Istanbul’s cats through photos:

I seriously could have taken hundreds of photos of cats because they are everywhere, but hopefully you get the idea of what you can expect to find in Istanbul. While I have met lots of cats around the world, it was refreshing to see a city that really cares for its strays.

🐾 Istanbul’s Cats: Living Legends & Local Companions

🏙️ Why Cats Rule Istanbul’s Streets

Step into any Istanbul neighborhood and you’ll spot them: cats curled on sun-warmed stones, perched atop ancient city walls, or weaving confidently through bustling markets. In Istanbul, cats aren’t just stray animals—they’re beloved locals, living legends, and silent witnesses to the city’s rich history.

Here, caring for cats is more than tradition. It’s an unspoken citywide pact—a daily act of kindness that speaks to the very heart of what makes Istanbul so welcoming. From a shopkeeper topping up a water bowl outside his door, to a grandmother leaving treats by a park bench, the love is everywhere.

“A city can be judged by the way it treats its animals,” an old Turkish proverb says—and by that measure, Istanbul shines.

🌆 Where To Meet Istanbul’s Famous Felines

Stroll these neighborhoods and you’ll spot food dishes tucked beside doorways, playful kittens sunbathing on stoops, and locals who can name every regular cat on their street. If you slow down and watch, you’ll see a living relationship—one that’s equal parts affection, community, and daily ritual.

🧡 The Heart of the City: Everyday Cat Culture

Istanbul’s cat culture is rooted in centuries-old tradition and faith. Islamic stories tell of the Prophet Muhammad’s kindness to cats, a value that’s shaped generations. But in the 21st century, this reverence is lived out through simple, meaningful actions:

• 🥣 Daily Feeding Routines:
  Locals refill water bowls and set out plates of kibbles or fresh scraps before heading to work. Some shops keep treats on hand for their regulars.
• 🏠 Shelters on the Streets:
  Community-built “kedi evi” (cat houses) provide shelter from the rain and cold. These are often painted bright colors, sometimes with the names of resident cats!
• 🤲 Acts of Kindness:
  It’s common to see someone pause, crouch, and greet a cat by name—even in the busiest market. Children are taught from a young age to respect and care for street animals.

🛎️ How To Make Feline Friends in Istanbul

If you love cats—or just want to experience the city like a local—here’s how to win feline hearts (and a few purrs):

🎒 What To Bring

• Cat treats or a small bag of dry food (easy ice-breakers!)
• Hand sanitizer and wipes—cats are friendly, but you’ll want to stay clean
• A lint roller (optional, but smart)
• Your camera—trust me, the photo ops are endless

🐈 Best Practices for Meeting Istanbul’s Cats

• Let them approach you. Most cats are friendly, but a few are shy. Respect their space and let curiosity do the rest.
• Move slowly and speak softly. Gentle words or a classic “pspsps” are universally understood.
• Observe local habits. If a shopkeeper is feeding a certain cat, ask before joining in. Most will welcome your help—or share the cat’s name and story!
• Be mindful in sacred spaces. Cats are welcome in most mosques and courtyards, but always follow local cues.

🗺️ Quick Guide: Istanbul Cat Culture At a Glance

Where to Meet the City’s Celebrity Cats

Seasonal Cat Calendar

🙌 Giving Back: How to Support Istanbul’s Street Cats

It’s hard not to fall for these cats. If you’d like to help, consider:

• Donating to local animal welfare groups such as He’Pati, Kedi Istanbul, or the Istanbul Cat Project. Your gift helps provide food, shelter, and medical care for strays.
• Sponsoring a “kedi evi”: Some organizations let visitors contribute to the upkeep or construction of new shelters.
• Sharing your stories: Every photo or memory you share helps raise awareness about Istanbul’s unique cat culture and supports responsible tourism.

Have you ever come across a city that loves its cats? Have you ever befriended a street cat on your travels? Share your story in the comments. Bonus points for photos and the quirky nicknames you gave them!