A Turkish man’s divorce settlement has taken an unusual turn, as he’s committed to paying substantial monthly support – not for children, but for the couple’s two beloved cats.
The former spouses, identified in Turkish court documents as Buğra B. and Ezgi B., have reached an agreement that sees custody of their feline companions transferred to the wife, along with quarterly payments of 10,000 liras (approximately $240 USD) to cover the animals’ care expenses.
According to sources, the financial commitment spans a decade, with the amount adjusted annually for inflation. Without accounting for inflation increases, the payments would total roughly $9,600 over the ten-year period.
“The parties have agreed that the two cats belonging to Buğra B. will stay with Ezgi B.,” the court documents explain. “As long as the cats remain with Ezgi B., and in any case for up to 10 years, Buğra B. will pay 10,000 liras per month for their care, in quarterly installments.”
This arrangement represents just one component of the divorce settlement. Buğra B. also agreed to pay his ex-wife 550,000 liras in material compensation as part of their separation.
The couple cited “severe incompatibility and a breakdown in the foundation of their marriage” as the reason for their split. Despite their differences, they appear to have handled the matter of their pets with remarkable civility.
According to Turkish media coverage, this case reflects a growing trend in how pets are treated within the country’s legal system. While Turkish civil code technically classifies pets as “movable property,” recent years have seen an evolution in how courts approach animal welfare in legal disputes.
This shift is largely attributed to Turkey’s Animal Protection Law, enacted in 2004. The legislation aims to ensure that animals “enjoy a ‘comfortable life,’ receive good and proper treatment, and to protect them from pain, suffering, torture, and all forms of cruel treatment.”
The Istanbul case demonstrates how this law has influenced judicial decisions, with courts increasingly recognizing the emotional significance of pets and the need for their continued care following relationship breakdowns.