Maybe also you have this question: why are there so many stray cats in Istanbul?
Istanbul's history of cats
Cats have been a part of the city's history for centuries. They have been revered as symbols of good luck and fertility, and it is believed that their presence can bring happiness and prosperity to households.
Turkish folklore said that a cat once saved the city of Istanbul from a rat infestation that threatened the grain stores. As a result, the city's leaders declared cats sacred and provided them with food and protection.
During the Ottoman Empire, cats were so highly valued that they were given their palace. In addition, the imperial family often gifts cats to other dignitaries as symbols of friendship and goodwill. Today, stray cats are a beloved part of the city's culture and are often fed and cared for by residents and tourists.
The city's cat population has been estimated to be over 150,000, and they have become a symbol of Istanbul's cultural heritage.
In recent years, local organizations have emerged to provide care and support to the city's stray cat population. In addition, efforts have been made to spay and neuter cats to reduce their numbers and improve their overall health and well-being.
Despite these efforts, the high number of stray cats in Istanbul remains a challenge, and further action is needed to address this issue.
The lifestyle of stray cats in Istanbul is a mixture of independence and dependence on human care. On the one hand, stray cats are often seen roaming the streets, scavenging for food, and finding shelter in alleyways and other urban spaces. Yet, on the other hand, they also receive significant care and attention from residents and tourists.
Many people in Istanbul take care of stray cats by feeding them, sheltering them, and taking them to the vet when necessary. Local organizations also exist to support the city's homeless cat population, providing food, medical care, and other essential services. Sometimes, stray cats are even given homes and treated as pets.
In general, the life of a stray cat in Istanbul is a mix of independence and reliance on human kindness. Yet, despite their challenges, many stray cats can survive and thrive in the city, and their presence is celebrated as a symbol of Istanbul's rich cultural heritage.
My Mission is to Help Stray Cats and Dogs in Istanbul
As a passionate lover of cats and dogs, I am proud to care for my two beloved pets at home. In Istanbul, where I reside, I have taken it upon myself to help the many stray cats and dogs who need assistance.
They require crucial things like shelter, medication, and food, and it brings me joy to be able to provide for them. To further my efforts, I have created a page on the 'Buy Me a Coffee' website to accept donations from my readers. If you share my love for animals and want to join the cause, you are more than welcome to join our team.
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