Scottish Fold cats are known for their unmistakable folded ears and round appearance. They are incredibly affectionate and social companions who love to spend time with their families. If you are considering bringing a Scottish Fold into your family, it is important to understand their unique personalities, potential health concerns, and grooming and activity needs.
History
As their name suggests, Scottish Fold cats hail from the Scottish Highlands. In 1961, Scottish shepherd William Ross stumbled upon a barn kitten named Susie, who had the rare, folded ears that are now characteristic of the breed. According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), Ross began to breed Susie with local farm cats and British Shorthair cats. When nearly half of Susie’s kittens developed folded ears, it was discovered that the trait was likely a natural genetic mutation.
Scottish Folds quickly grew in popularity. In 1977, however, breeding of these cats came to an abrupt halt. It was determined that a significant portion of Scottish Folds developed serious cases of osteodystrophy, a condition that causes skeletal development issues, weak bones, and discomfort. Even today, Scottish Folds are not accepted by Great Britain’s Governing Council of the Cat Fancy due to concerns about inhumane breeding practices.
Reputable breeders in the United States have worked hard to eliminate the gene that causes osteodystrophy and Scottish Folds are now considered a generally healthy cat breed. They remain very popular for their cute looks and sweet demeanor. Famous Scottish Folds include Taylor Swift’s Meredith Grey and Olivia Benson, named after fictional characters from popular TV series Grey’s Anatomy and Law and Order.
Size and appearance
If there is one thing that Scottish Folds are known for, it is their folded ears. These cats may not be identified immediately, however. The CFA notes that at birth, all Scottish Fold kittens sport straight ears. Ear cartilage starts to bend and fold within a few weeks to a couple months in cats with the gene mutation.
These medium-sized cats have distinct round faces, round eyes, short necks, round whisker pads, and a sturdy body with a bushy tail. Owners and cat fanciers often remark that Scottish Folds look like they are smiling. And between their folded ears and general roundness, they can resemble an owl when sitting up straight, sometimes being referred to as an “owl in a catsuit.”
Scottish Folds can weigh between six and 10 pounds, with larger males weighing up to 13 pounds. They are typically 10 to 12 inches tall and can be up to 30 inches long.
These cats have a dense, resilient coat that comes in both a shorthaired version as well as a less common longhaired version. Scottish Fold coats can come in nearly every color and combination.
