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Notice: Istanbul Kittens is currently on hiatus.
Istanbul Kittens is just a few friends doing what we can to help the neighborhood street cats, and currently our plate is full.
Unfortunately, Unfortunately, Istanbul doesn't have large nonprofit rescue groups in the same way some other countries do. All rescue efforts that I know of are taken on by individuals using their own resources and everyone is usually overextended.
My recommendation is to post in the "Cihangir Cool for Cats" Facebook group. It's the city's largest cat rescue network and the best way to reach out to many people quickly.
Best wishes and thank you for caring for the street cats.
The City of Cats
Istanbul is a city of cats. They're on the street, in the cafes and shops, and sometimes even taking a ride on the metro. They are part of the soul of this amazing city and many people do their best to feed and care for these furry street residents.
One stray cat can give birth to up to 3 litters of kittens in a year. With an average of 4 kittens per litter, the street cat population is constantly growing, and even with the best of intentions - the life of a street cat (even in Istanbul) is difficult and dangerous.
What we do
Istanbul Kittens began in February 2020 as an effort to find permanent homes for three litters of street kittens born on one balcony in Bağlarbaşı. While we are still fostering and seeking homes for some of these kittens, much of our work has moved to the street. Currently, we provide basic welfare (food and urgent medical care) for a large group of street cats in the neighborhood. Our goal is to limit the local street cat population growth through targeted spay/neuter efforts.
Every cat that is sterilized can prevent the birth of thousands of homeless kittens.
How to Help
In Turkey:
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Make a payment to one of partner veterinarians or pet stores on our behalf to cover medical expenses or purchase products
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Provide Turkish language translation for our website and online posts
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Recommend a local or online print shop for affordable on-demand product printing and shipping in Istanbul
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Volunteer for cat fostering
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Volunteer for cat trapping and/or vet transport
From anywhere:
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Share our website and Instagram with other cat lovers
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Purchase an Istanbul Kittens product
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Donate graphic design services
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Donate to our GoFundMe fundraiser
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Adopt a Turkish street cat!