Turkish Divorce Settlement Sets Precedent with Long-Term Cat Support Payments

Structured Pet Support Emerges in Turkish Divorce Case

In a move reflecting changing perspectives on animal welfare, an Istanbul family court has approved a divorce settlement that breaks new ground: the agreement mandates long-term financial support for two cats belonging to the couple. The case, involving Bugra B. and Ezgi B., is quickly becoming a talking point for both legal professionals and pet advocates across Turkey.

Details of the Settlement: Beyond Marital Compensation

The couple, who had been married for two years, decided to end their relationship due to what the court record describes as “severe incompatibility.” The financial terms of the divorce were significant: Bugra B. agreed to pay Ezgi B. a lump sum of ₺550,000 (about $13,104). Yet, what truly distinguishes this settlement is its careful attention to the couple’s cats.

According to the agreement, the two cats will remain in the custody of Ezgi B. To ensure their well-being, Bugra B. must pay ₺10,000 (roughly $238) every three months for their care, with these payments continuing for up to ten years. Importantly, the amount will be adjusted annually in accordance with the Consumer Price Index published by the Turkish Statistical Institute, ensuring the cats’ needs keep pace with inflation.

Legal Landscape: Pets as Property, Animals as Family?

Under current Turkish law, pets are classified as movable property, a legal definition that has been criticized by animal rights groups for failing to recognize animals’ status as sentient beings. However, rulings based on Turkey’s Animal Protection Law No. 5199 have gradually expanded the courts’ approach, allowing agreements that specifically address the custody and care of pets in divorce settlements.

While there have been previous cases involving pet custody, this particular settlement stands out for its structured, long-term financial support, which could influence future court decisions. Legal experts note that this approach signals a slow but notable shift from treating pets as mere property to recognizing their role as family members whose welfare merits protection and planning.

Potential Impact: A New Precedent for Animal Welfare

For many observers, this Istanbul ruling is more than a legal technicality—it’s a sign of evolving societal values. Animal welfare advocates hope that the case will serve as a precedent, inspiring both courts and couples to address pet care as a serious responsibility during divorce proceedings. The structured payments and annual adjustments built into this settlement suggest a growing awareness of the financial and emotional needs involved in pet ownership.

The court is expected to review the case further in the coming days, but the agreement already stands as a milestone in Turkish family law. As more people consider pets part of their families, such settlements may become the norm rather than the exception.

Notably, similar cases have occurred before, but few have included such long-term, systematic provisions for animal care. Legal observers and animal rights groups will be watching closely to see if this trend continues—and whether the Turkish legal system will further adapt to the realities of modern pet ownership.

This case demonstrates how legal frameworks can evolve to reflect changing social attitudes. By recognizing pets’ welfare in divorce settlements, Turkish courts are taking steps toward more humane, family-centered justice—though much remains to be done to fully align law with society’s growing compassion for animals.