Scottish Fold

Breed Overview

Introduction

The Scottish Fold cat stands out in the feline world due to a truly unique characteristic: its ears.  

Unlike other domestic cats, the Scottish Fold possesses ears that fold forward and downward, giving it an endearing, owl-like or teddy bear appearance.  

This distinctive feature, combined with a generally round body structure and large, expressive eyes, creates a look that is instantly recognizable and widely adored.  

Beyond their captivating aesthetics, Scottish Folds are celebrated for their gentle and amiable personalities. They are known to be sociable, intelligent, and remarkably adaptable, fitting seamlessly into various household dynamics.  

However, the very genetic mutation responsible for their charming folded ears also carries implications for their health, making responsible ownership and informed care paramount for these beloved companions.  

Understanding both their delightful traits and their specific care needs is essential for anyone considering welcoming a Scottish Fold into their home.

Breed History

The story of the Scottish Fold begins in 1961, on a farm near Coupar Angus in the Tayside Region of Scotland.  

A local shepherd named William Ross discovered a white barn cat named Susie with an unusual trait: her ears were folded forward, covering the ear opening. Susie’s unique appearance was the result of a spontaneous genetic mutation.  

Intrigued by Susie’s distinctive ears, Ross acquired one of her kittens, a female named Snooks, who also exhibited the folded ear trait. Snooks became the foundation queen for the developing breed.  

To establish the breed and introduce genetic diversity, Snooks was bred with a British Shorthair and other domestic cats. This early breeding program led to the development of what is now recognized as the Scottish Fold.  

A crucial aspect of the breed’s genetics is that the folded ear trait is caused by a dominant gene mutation (Fd). This means that only one parent needs to carry the gene for it to be passed on to offspring.  

Interestingly, all Scottish Fold kittens are born with straight ears; the characteristic fold typically develops within the first 18 to 24 days of their life, if they carry the gene. Kittens from Scottish Fold litters that do not develop the fold are known as Scottish Straights.  

While the breed quickly gained popularity, particularly in the USA, it faced initial skepticism and even rejection by some cat registries in the UK, such as the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF).

Physical Characteristics

The Scottish Fold’s most striking feature is, without a doubt, its ears. These small ears fold forward and downward, fitting snugly like a cap over their rounded head, contributing to their widely recognized “owl-like” or “teddy bear” appearance.

This fold can vary in intensity, categorized into three degrees: a single fold (a slight bend at the tips), a double fold (a more prominent bend involving about half the ear), and a triple fold (where the ear lies flat against the head, making the head appear even rounder).

Through selective breeding over the years, the sharper double and triple folds have become more common, particularly in show-quality cats.  

Beyond the ears, the Scottish Fold is characterized by a general roundness in its entire body structure. They are medium to large-sized cats, typically standing 8 to 10 inches (20–25 cm) tall and measuring 14 to 16 inches (36–41 cm) in body length.

Their heads are notably rounded with prominent cheeks, and they possess large, wide, round eyes that contribute to their “sweet expression”. The nose is short with a gentle curve, and their neck is typically short, blending into a well-rounded, padded body.

Their legs are medium-to-short, yet strong and muscular, supporting a body that often feels well-padded. Their tails are medium to long, proportionate to their bodies, with tapered or rounded tips.  

Scottish Folds come in two main coat varieties: shorthair and longhair. Shorthaired Folds have a dense, plush, and soft coat, while longhaired Folds (sometimes called Highland Folds) possess medium to long fur that is fuller on their britches, tails, toes, and ears, often featuring a visible “ruff” around their necks.

Behavior and Personality

Beyond their captivating looks, Scottish Folds are renowned for their delightful temperament and engaging personalities. They possess a very even temperament, striking a balance between being energetic and enjoying quiet companionship.

They are not abnormally active but are more playful than a typical lap cat, enjoying games, exploration, and quality time with their human family.

These cats are remarkably sociable and friendly, quickly becoming an integrated and beloved member of any family.

Their easygoing nature allows them to adapt well to new environments and get along famously with children and other pets, including dogs, provided proper introductions are made.

This adaptability suggests that they are not easily intimidated by noisy households or new surroundings, which is a significant advantage for families with active lifestyles.  

Scottish Folds are deeply affectionate and loyal, often forming strong bonds with one particular person, whom they may follow from room to room “like a loyal puppy”.

While they appreciate petting and cuddling, they are generally not overly demanding of attention, striking a pleasant balance between independence and companionship.

Their need for companionship means they do not thrive when left alone for long periods; some owners find that having two Scottish Folds can provide mutual company, alleviating potential separation anxiety.

This highlights a crucial consideration for potential owners: these cats flourish in environments where they receive consistent interaction.  

Intelligence and curiosity are also hallmarks of the breed. Scottish Folds are described as smart and inquisitive, enjoying puzzle toys and laser pointers that challenge their minds.

They can be trained to do basic tricks and respond well to positive reinforcement. Their curiosity often leads them to explore their surroundings, and they are quick to learn new behaviors.  

A charming quirk of the Scottish Fold is their tendency to strike unusual poses. They are famously known for sitting upright on their hind legs, resembling a prairie dog or an otter, to get a better vantage point when something new captures their attention.

They also frequently sit in a human-like posture, affectionately dubbed “The Buddha Sit” by their owners, or sleep sprawled out on their back or belly.

Care Guide

Diet

Scottish Folds, like all cats, are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are biologically adapted to require a meat-based diet.

An ideal feline diet closely mimics that of their natural prey, consisting of approximately 52% protein, 46% fat, and 2% or less carbohydrates.

This dietary composition is essential for maintaining muscle tone, supporting overall health, and managing their weight, which is particularly important given their predisposition to joint issues.  

Most adult Scottish Folds benefit from two meals a day with controlled portion sizes to prevent obesity. Free-feeding, especially for indoor cats, should be avoided.

Exercise

While Scottish Folds are not considered hyperactive, they do possess a moderate energy level and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain a healthy weight and prevent boredom.

Their playful nature means they enjoy interactive activities that engage their hunting instincts.  

Daily play sessions are crucial. Interactive toys such as feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders are excellent choices to keep them physically active and mentally engaged.

Scratching posts or pads are also essential, not only for maintaining healthy claws but also as a natural outlet for their energy and to prevent furniture damage.

Regular, moderate exercise helps to reduce stress on their joints, which is a key consideration given their predisposition to osteochondrodysplasia.

Environment & Enrichment

Scottish Folds are adaptable cats that thrive in various living situations, including apartments, as they are generally homebodies.

It is generally recommended to keep them as indoor cats to protect them from outdoor dangers such as accidents, diseases, and predators.

However, an indoor environment must be rich and stimulating to prevent boredom and ensure their mental well-being.  

Given their social nature, a household that provides consistent attention and companionship is ideal. They are known to form strong bonds with their human companions and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.

Providing them with a consistent routine and a peaceful home environment contributes significantly to their overall happiness and sense of security.

The emphasis on an enriched indoor environment directly addresses their social needs and intelligent nature, preventing behavioral issues that can arise from under-stimulation.  

Grooming

The grooming needs of a Scottish Fold vary slightly depending on their coat length, but consistent care is vital for their health and comfort.

Shorthaired Scottish Folds have dense, plush coats that benefit from weekly brushing to remove loose hair and prevent shedding and matting.

Longhaired Folds, with their longer fur and tufts, require more frequent brushing—two to three times a week—to prevent tangles and mats from forming.

Special attention must be paid to their unique folded ears. Due to their shape, Scottish Folds are more prone to wax buildup and ear infections because of reduced airflow.

Owners should check their ears weekly and gently clean them every two weeks with a damp cotton ball or a vet-approved ear-cleaning solution. Care should be taken not to insert anything too deeply into the ear canal.

Mental Stimulation

Scottish Folds are intelligent and curious cats that require consistent mental stimulation to remain engaged and happy.

Physical exercise alone is often not enough to satisfy their inquisitive minds, and a lack of mental enrichment can lead to boredom and potentially undesirable behaviors.  

Interactive play is a cornerstone of mental stimulation for this breed. Toys that mimic prey, such as feather wands, laser pointers, and small, lightweight toys they can wrestle with, are excellent for engaging their hunting instincts.

Beyond toys, regular social interaction with their human companions is a significant form of mental enrichment. Scottish Folds enjoy being involved in household activities and will often follow their owners, engaging in quiet, polite “conversations”.

They are quick to learn tricks and respond well to positive reinforcement, making training sessions another avenue for mental engagement.

Providing a variety of textures and new experiences, even within an indoor environment, can also keep their minds stimulated.

Health Concerns

Is This Breed Right for You?

FAQ

Are Scottish Folds inherently in pain, and what is OCD? 

No, Scottish Folds are not inherently in pain by default. However, the genetic mutation responsible for their folded ears is directly linked to a condition called Osteochondrodysplasia (OCD).

This disorder affects cartilage and bone development throughout the body, which can lead to painful joint issues, stiffness, and skeletal deformities in some cats. The severity varies, but all folded-ear Folds are affected to some degree.  

Why can’t Scottish Folds be bred fold-to-fold? 

Breeding two Scottish Folds together (fold-to-fold) is strongly discouraged and prohibited by responsible breeders and cat registries due to severe health risks. This type of breeding significantly increases the likelihood and severity of Osteochondrodysplasia (OCD) in the offspring, leading to more painful and debilitating bone and joint issues.

To safeguard the health of the cats, Scottish Folds are typically bred with non-folded cats, such as Scottish Straights or British Shorthairs.  

Why do Scottish Straights exist? 

Scottish Straights are the straight-eared siblings of Scottish Folds, born from the same gene pool but without inheriting the folded ear trait. They exist to maintain genetic diversity within the breed and are crucial for ethical breeding programs. By outcrossing Scottish Folds with Scottish Straights, breeders can reduce the risk of severe genetic health issues like OCD while still preserving the unique characteristics of the Scottish Fold lineage.  

Can Scottish Fold ears unfold? 

Once a Scottish Fold’s ears have developed their fold, they typically do not unfold permanently. However, the tightness of the fold can vary, and in some female Scottish Folds, their ears might temporarily “go up” when they are in heat. Ear infections or other health issues could also cause the ears to appear differently.  

Are Scottish Folds banned in the USA? 

No, Scottish Folds are not banned in the USA. While The International Cat Association (TICA) initially considered a ban due to health concerns, they ultimately decided to allow registration, provided breeders conduct DNA testing to ensure the breed’s health and safety.  

Do Scottish Folds like to cuddle? 

Yes, Scottish Folds are known for their affectionate nature and frequently enjoy cuddling with their owners. They are calm and appreciate spending quality time with their families.  

Are Scottish Fold cats expensive? 

Yes, Scottish Folds can be quite expensive. The typical price range for a kitten from a reputable breeder is between $1,000 and $5,000 or more, depending on factors like pedigree, coat color, and the breeder’s reputation. This cost reflects the responsible breeding practices, health screenings, and care provided.  

Are Scottish Folds hypoallergenic? 

No, Scottish Folds are not considered hypoallergenic. Like most cat breeds, they produce allergens in their skin and saliva, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.  

Can Scottish Folds be left alone? 

Scottish Folds are social and affectionate cats that thrive on companionship. They may not be content if left alone for long periods and can experience separation anxiety. It is advisable to have someone check on them or provide enrichment, such as interactive toys or another animal companion, if extended absences are unavoidable.  

What is the difference between Scottish Fold and British Shorthair character? 

Scottish Folds are typically affectionate, calm, and highly social, forming strong bonds with their owners and enjoying companionship. British Shorthairs, while also affectionate, tend to be more independent and reserved. Both are laid-back, but Scottish Folds generally seek more direct interaction.  

Can you breed a Scottish Fold with a British Shorthair? 

Yes, breeding a Scottish Fold with a British Shorthair is a common and recommended practice for ethical reasons. This outcrossing helps to maintain genetic diversity and reduce the risk of severe health issues associated with fold-to-fold breeding. The resulting kittens may inherit traits from both breeds, including the British Shorthair’s round face and either folded or straight ears from the Scottish Fold lineage.  

Bonus Facts

A Single Ancestor

All Scottish Fold cats can trace their lineage back to one humble barn cat named Susie, discovered in Scotland in 1961.  

Born with Straight Ears

Despite their defining feature, Scottish Fold kittens are born with straight ears. The characteristic fold only begins to develop when they are between 18 and 24 days old, if they carry the specific gene.  

Degrees of Folds

The ear folds are categorized into three types: single (slight bend), double (more prominent bend), and triple (lies flat against the head, common in show-quality cats).  

Unique Sitting Postures

Scottish Folds are famous for their peculiar sitting habits, including sitting upright like a “prairie dog” to observe their surroundings or sitting like humans, a pose affectionately known as “The Buddha Sit”.  

Gentle Handling

While not delicate, Scottish Folds require gentle handling, particularly concerning their tails, which can sometimes be stiff due to the genetic mutation affecting cartilage.  

Show Ring Exclusivity

Among all cats with folded ears, only those of Scottish lineage are currently permitted in the show ring, and typically only those with triple folds are considered “show quality”.  

Celebrity Companions

This charming breed has captured the hearts of many, including pop superstar Taylor Swift, who famously owns two Scottish Fold cats.  

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