Husband to pay thousands in ‘cat alimony’ after split from wife in Istanbul

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As part of their divorce settlement, a man in Turkey will pay his former wife a yearly sum of money specifically to help with the care of their cat.

Going through a divorce is rarely easy, and financial issues often make it even harder. Figuring out things like spousal support, child support, and how to divide property can quickly become very complex when you’re separating your life from someone else.

A recent divorce is gaining attention because the ex-husband has agreed to continue financially supporting the couple’s two cats as part of the separation agreement.

Divorce settlement in Turkey includes alimony… for two cats

In their divorce, a man named Buğra B. gave custody of his two cats to his wife, Ezgi B., according to reports in Turkish media.

As a part of their agreement, Buğra will pay Ezgi 10,000 Turkish liras (about $240 USD) every three months for the next ten years to help with the animals’ care. This amount will increase each year to keep up with inflation. Without considering inflation, he’s expected to pay around $9,600 total over the ten years.

According to court records, Buğra B. and Ezgi B. have agreed that Ezgi will care for Buğra’s two cats. Buğra will pay Ezgi 10,000 liras each month – paid every three months – for the cats’ care, and this arrangement will last for up to 10 years as long as the cats live with Ezgi.

This was one of just two financial agreements made by the former couple. In addition to this arrangement, the ex-husband also paid Ezgi B. 550,000 liras as compensation for material losses.

I was really sad to hear they were splitting up – apparently they just grew apart and their marriage wasn’t working anymore. But honestly, I was relieved to read that they’re handling things like their cats really well, which is great to see!

Recent news in Turkey highlights a growing legal issue: how pets are considered in the eyes of the law. While Turkish law currently classifies pets as personal property, cases like this one are becoming more common due to the country’s increasing focus on animal welfare laws.

The law, originally passed in 2004, aims to guarantee animals live comfortably, receive proper care, and are protected from pain, cruelty, and suffering.

It’s becoming increasingly common for pets to play a role in divorce proceedings. Just recently, a couple in India separated shortly after getting married because their cat and dog constantly fought in the house.

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2025-10-24 22:21