Turkish Man Ordered to Pay “Cat Alimony” in Landmark Divorce Case

In a first for Turkish legal history, a man has reportedly agreed to pay alimony for two cats following his divorce — marking one of the most unusual settlements ever recorded in the country’s family courts.

According to the divorce agreement, the man committed to transferring 10,000 Turkish liras (around €330) every three months to his ex-wife for the care of their two cats. The payments are to continue for ten years or until the cats pass away, whichever comes first. To reflect changing economic conditions, the amount will also be adjusted in line with inflation, ensuring the pets’ standard of care remains stable despite Türkiye’s fluctuating economy.

Under the arrangement, the ex-wife received full custody of the cats, along with an additional 550 liras (€18) in personal compensation. While the court has yet to issue a final ruling, legal experts say this may be the first case in Türkiye where pet support was officially recognized as part of a divorce settlement.

The case has sparked widespread public interest and social media debate, with many users applauding the emotional and financial responsibility shown toward the animals — and others questioning whether such agreements could set a new precedent in Turkish family law.

Animal rights advocates have described the case as “a step toward recognizing pets as family members rather than property.” Under current Turkish civil law, animals are legally considered possessions, meaning financial support for their care is not a formal legal obligation. However, the growing trend of pet custody disputes in urban areas — particularly in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir — has put pressure on courts to adapt to changing social realities.

While similar cases have appeared in Europe and North America, this development highlights the evolving nature of family law in Türkiye, where animal welfare and emotional companionship are increasingly seen as part of domestic life. If approved by the court, the settlement could open the door for future pet-related alimony agreements, signaling a cultural shift in how Turkish society views its furry family members.

Legal scholars note that the agreement, though consensual, challenges traditional interpretations of marital property and responsibility. If upheld, it might influence how judges handle custody, compensation, and emotional attachment in similar disputes involving animals.