In a unique divorce settlement in Istanbul, Turkey, Buğra B. has agreed to pay 10,000 liras ($240) every three months to support the care of two cats he shared with his ex-wife, Ezgi B. The couple, citing “severe incompatibility and a breakdown in the foundation of their marriage,” opted for a mutually agreed-upon divorce without seeking alimony or compensation from each other. However, their divorce filing included a novel clause addressing the financial maintenance of their pets, marking a potential shift in how pet custody is handled in divorce proceedings.
Custody and Financial Responsibility for Pets
As part of the agreement, Buğra B. transferred custody of the two cats to Ezgi B., who will assume primary responsibility for their care. In return, Buğra committed to covering the cats’ expenses, with payments of 10,000 lira per quarter for up to 10 years, as long as the cats remain under Ezgi’s care. The divorce settlement specifies that this amount will be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI)-EFE ratio, as determined by Turkey’s statistical authority, TÜİK. This clause ensures the payments keep pace with inflation, securing the cats’ financial support over time.
A New Type of Alimony?
The inclusion of “cat support” in the divorce agreement has sparked discussions in Turkey, with some calling it a “new type of alimony.” Legal experts suggest this case could set a precedent for pet-owning couples navigating divorce, as pets are increasingly viewed as family members rather than property. While Turkish law does not yet formally recognise pets as deserving of alimony-like support, this agreement highlights a growing awareness of the emotional and financial responsibilities tied to pet ownership post-divorce.
Potential Impact on Future Divorces
This case underscores a broader trend where courts and couples worldwide are beginning to address pet custody with greater care. In some countries, such as Spain, recent legal changes have recognised pets as sentient beings, prompting more detailed custody arrangements in divorces. Buğra and Ezgi’s agreement could inspire similar arrangements in Turkey, where pet ownership is common, and emotional bonds with animals are significant. The financial commitment to the cats’ welfare reflects a mutual desire to ensure their well-being after the marriage ends.
Cultural and Legal Significance
The “cat support” clause is not only a personal agreement between Buğra and Ezgi but also a reflection of evolving societal attitudes toward pets. As more couples include pets in divorce settlements, legal systems may need to adapt to accommodate these arrangements. In Turkey, this case is already being hailed as a potential model for future divorce protocols, particularly for couples without children but with shared pets. The agreement demonstrates a creative solution to a modern issue, balancing emotional and financial considerations in the dissolution of a marriage.
