Scottish Fold Traits
Scottish Fold Height
60-80 cm
Scottish Fold Weight
5-8 kg
Scottish Fold Life Expectancy
8-15 years
Scottish Fold Appearance
- Medium size
- Curled-eared
- Tame
- Kind
- Friendly
Scottish Fold General Character
Compassion towards the family
X
Communication with children
X
Communication with other cats
X
The members of the Scottish Fold breed, named after their small, folded ears, are still a topic of ethical debate when it comes to breeding our little friends, with no definitive resolution yet. The word "Fold" meaning "to bend" or "to fold" is given to this breed due to their folded ears. These folded ears, which emerged as a result of a mutation in farm cats in Scotland, are actually an indicator of an inherited skeletal problem. Although these unique and characteristic ears of the breed are attractive to outsiders, they are both the source of the breed's fame and a sign that they can suffer unbearable pain.
The adoption of the Scottish Fold breed by families, due to their very calm, friendly, and sympathetic appearance, leads to the continuation of the breed that has to cope with this inherited and painful disease.
Scottish Fold History
The Scottish Fold breed, named after its small, folded ears, is still the subject of ethical debates about the breeding of our little friends, and a final decision has not yet been made. The term "fold" which means folding, refers to their folded ears, which are actually a sign of an inherited skeletal problem. These cute and characteristic ears, which are a source of fame for the Scottish Fold, are also a sign that they may experience unbearable pain. Despite this, the breed is popularly adopted by families due to their calm, friendly, and sympathetic appearance, which in turn leads to the continuation of the breed that has to deal with this inherited and painful disease.
The known ancestor of the Scottish Fold is a cat named Susie, discovered in 1961 on a farm in Perthshire, Scotland. Susie's genetic mutation of folded ears was passed on to half of her offspring. One of her kittens, Snooks, caught the attention of William Ross with its remarkable appearance and went on to ensure the continuation of the entire breed that exists today.
Shortly after the first litters were produced, it was observed that Scottish Fold cats were not born with folded ears, but only those carrying this gene began to develop them at 21 days old. The incomplete autosomal dominant gene affecting cartilage and bone development throughout the body led to their ears being folded. Research has also shown that cats carrying this gene may have a skeletal disorder called osteochondrodysplasia and serious health problems.
Although the Scottish Fold was initially recognized as a registered breed by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in England, the decision was withdrawn in 1971 due to ethical concerns about the continuation of the breed.
Scottish Fold Personality and Character Traits
Scottish Fold is generally known for its relaxed personality and sociability. They usually get along well with cat-friendly dogs and other cats. With their calm and easygoing nature, they can adapt to homes with multiple pets.
As a generally calm breed, Scottish Folds do not require a lot of activity or strenuous exercise to be happy. They prefer to be active in short bursts throughout the day and generally choose to rest. They do not mind being in the laps of calm and gentle humans, but they tend to avoid the hands of energetic children or adults who like to roughhouse and prefer to find a peaceful hiding spot.
Scottish Fold General Care
Scottish Fold Feather Care
The coat health of Scottish Fold cats is directly related to factors such as nutrition, stress, and immunity, just like all of our furry friends. Water consumption is another important factor in this regard. Some time should be set aside every day for grooming routines such as massage that would be enjoyable for this calm breed.
Scottish Fold Nail Care
To be able to do some nail care for Scottish Folds, a climbing pole should be purchased, and nail checks and care should be done once a week.
Scottish Fold Dental Care
Just like with other breeds, the teeth of Scottish Fold cats should be brushed at least once a week.
Scottish Fold Ear Care
Because Scottish Fold cats have folded ears, it is important to monitor for signs of irritation, mites, or infection.
Scottish Fold Health
- Osteochondrodysplasia (A genetic skeletal disorder that affects cartilage and bone development)
- Cardiovascular diseases (Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy)
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
- Stenotic nares (Narrow nostrils)
- Ear diseases
- Dermatological diseases
Scottish Fold Nutrition
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for Scottish Folds, who are already at a higher risk for skeletal problems. Excessive weight can put additional strain on their bodies and can lead to diseases such as diabetes. Consulting a veterinarian for a healthy diet plan is recommended.
Did you know?
- Scottish Folds get their name from their distinctively folded ears caused by a genetic mutation.
- Scottish Folds are quite popular among cat breeds. They have frequently appeared in movies, TV shows, and commercials from past to present.
- The first known Scottish Fold cat is "Susie," discovered on a farm in Scotland in 1961.
- Scottish Folds are known for their intelligence. They are generally easy to train for tricks or walking on a leash.
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