Breed History
Like its name, the Scottish Fold originated in Scotland with a man named William Ross. He initially found a cat named Susie with folded ears on his farm, who then gave birth to kittens with the same mutation. One of Susie’s kittens, Snooks, was adopted by Ross’s neighbor, Pat Turner.
Turner was super interested in Snooks and her folded ears, so much so that he crossed the breed with American and British Shorthairs, creating the origins of the Scottish Fold. The developed breed became a popular cat breed across the world. At the same time, this also caused a buzz about responsible pet breeding and the cat’s health issues.
As a result, breeders shifted to breeding the cat with straight-eared cats. This helps preserve the Scottish Fold while keeping its most iconic feature. Today, Highland Folds continue to become a favorite of families and owners worldwide.
Health and Medical Concerns
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Temperament and Lifestyle Fit
Diet and Nutrition
Scottish Fold Grooming Guide
Coat Maintenance
Short-haired Scottish Folds need to be brushed every week, while long-haired variants need more frequent brushing because they're susceptible to mats and tangles. Use a slicker brush or fine-toothed comb to remove loose hairs.
Skin Health
These felines usually don’t have any specific skin care needs. But for some who have sensitive skin or have underlying conditions, they may require constant checking. For Scottish Folds with dry skin, you may need to apply mild moisturizers, or your vet may prescribe fatty acid supplements.
Bathing
Scottish Folds don’t need frequent bathing. It’s only required when they become extremely dirty or soiled. They generally need a bath every few months using gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo to prevent irritation. You may also bring them to expert cat groomers who are trained in bathing pet cats.
Nail Trimming
Observe your cat’s nails. Depending on their activity and how often they wear down their nails on scratching posts, adjust the nail trimming session every two to four weeks. Be careful not to cut up to the quick, the pink part of their claws, because it can cause bleeding and pain to your Scottish Fold.
Ear Care
Their folded ears don’t affect their hearing, but because of this body feature, moisture can easily get trapped in their middle and inner ears. It’s important to clean them at least once a month using a cleaning solution recommended by your veterinarian.
Eye Care
Scottish Folds have round eyes that require cleaning when discharge builds up. You can use a damp cotton or cloth to gently wipe away any fluid or crust. Always check for any signs of irritation, too much tearing, or redness. Call your veterinarian right away because it can already be a sign of infection.
Teeth Care
Routine dental care is important for all cats, including Scottish Folds. Their teeth must be brushed at least three times a week. Don’t use toothbrush or toothpaste made for humans as it may contain ingredients that are toxic to cats. Dental chews can also help maintain good oral health.
Physical Characteristics
Head
The Scottish Fold’s head is round with a short muzzle. They have prominent cheeks and short chins.
Eyes
The eyes are almost lemon-shaped, with sharp edges at the sides. The eyes themselves are prominent and widely spaced.
Ears
Their iconic ears are short and small, slightly folding forward. Some Scottish Folds have straight ears.
Body
They have a medium body with a well-rounded and sturdy build. The neck is proportionate with its body.
Limbs
Their legs are short to medium in length with good muscle tone. The paws are round and compact.
Tail
The tail is medium to long and proportionate to the body.
Coat
Depending on the variant, the coat can be short or long. Shorthair Folds have a dense and soft texture, while Longhair Folds have a fuller and longer coat. The colors are white, red, blue, cream, and black.
Size
Both male and female Scottish Folds don't have any distinct differences in size. They are both around 20.3-25.4 cm (8-10 inches).
Weight
Male Scottish Folds typically weigh 4-6 kg (8.8-13.2 lbs). On the other hand, females can weigh around 2.7-4 kg (6-8.8 lbs).
Other Cat Breeds
Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest cat is a large, rugged cat known for being by the side of Vikings and in mythology.
Abyssinian Cat
The Abyssinian Cat is known for being a playful cat who loves to jump around and have fun.
American Shorthair
The American Shorthair is a gentle cat, perfect for homes seeking a loving companion.
