City Cats of Istanbul

by Marcel Heijnen

For cat lovers everywhere, wonderful photographs highlighting the felines who inhabit the streets of Istanbul, a city famous for its love of cats.

This stunning photobook delves into the lives of the thousands of cats that live on the streets of Istanbul. The photographs show the unique personalities of these street cats, each with its own story and charm. From lounging on cobblestones and shop fronts, to perching on colorful market stalls, the cats appear in a variety of urban settings, offering a glimpse into the vibrant spirit and culture of Istanbul and its local inhabitants. The book explores how the feral cats of Istanbul are represented in various media, with social media, notably TikTok and Instagram, a particular medium through which Istanbul’s cats have gained widespread popularity. The historical and contemporary cultural significance of cats in Turkish society is presented in essays by the photographer Marcel Heijnen, haiku by Ian Row, and even first-person accounts written from the perspectives of the cats themselves―all interwoven with Heijnen’s beautiful photography. 90 color illustrations

Genres: Photography, Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

Published September 16, 2025

Reviews

[Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I, Abigail J. Tabby, ordered this book for my human because the last book I got for her made her sad. In the Shop Cats of New York most of my relatives were no longer alive.... She is happy with this one and the marvelous photographs. I, however, chose the best haiku: Of All God's Creatures - the cat is the most cognizant - of its power. Abby Tabby on behalf of Kristi

[Sofia · Rating 5 out of 5]

beautiful book on Istambul cats. poetic photos, together with Haikus reading into the mind of cats, I found myself smiling along the pages wondering and appreciating the Earth's most amazing species: our furry friends! I just wish all cats could be "seen"like this. And aren't they a wonder made by God... 5 stars !

[Ana Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book of the year

[Olesia · Rating 5 out of 5]

i adore cats. this book was my gift to myself on the last day of my trip to istanbul

[Estefania Vergara Cobos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it so much!!! It’s the perfect coffee table book!