Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold looks like it stepped out of a fairy tale. With its round face, big eyes, and folded ears, it resembles a wise old owl or a teddy bear. But beyond the cute looks is a loving, loyal cat that thrives on human interaction.

1. History and Origins: It Started with Susie

Every Scottish Fold alive today can trace its ancestry back to a single cat.

Susie the Barn Cat

In 1961, a shepherd named William Ross found a white barn cat named Susie in the Tayside region of Scotland. She had a unique mutation: her ears were folded forward. Ross acquired one of her kittens (named Snooks), and with the help of a geneticist, began to breed them.

Genetic Dominance

The gene for folded ears is dominant. This means that if a cat has one copy of the gene, it will have folded ears. However, breeding two folded-ear cats together causes severe health issues, so they are always outcrossed with straight-eared cats (like British or American Shorthairs).

2. Appearance: The Owl Cat

The most defining feature is, of course, the ears.

The Ears

Kittens are born with straight ears. At about 3 to 4 weeks of age, the ears may (or may not) fold.

• Single Fold: The tips just bend forward.
• Double Fold: A tighter fold.
• Triple Fold: The ears lie completely flat against the head, which is the show standard.
• Scottish Straight: Kittens whose ears never fold. They have the same personality but look like regular cats.

Body and Head

They are medium-sized cats with a rounded, well-padded body. Their head is also very round, with prominent cheeks and large, round eyes.

Sitting Like a Human

Scottish Folds are famous for the “Buddha Sit”—sitting back on their haunches with their legs stretched out and paws on their belly, looking just like a little human watching TV.

3. Personality: Sweet and Adaptable

Scottish Folds are known for being incredibly sweet-tempered.

Quiet Devotion

They are not demanding or loud. They will quietly follow you from room to room. They love to be near you but don’t necessarily need to be held every second.

Playful

They enjoy playing, especially with teasers and puzzles, but they are not hyperactive like a Bengal. They maintain a kitten-like playfulness well into adulthood.

Adaptable

They handle new situations, children, and other pets very well. They are robust and not easily startled.

4. Care and Needs

Ear Care

Because of the fold, the ears can become a trap for wax and dirt. It is essential to check them weekly and clean them gently to prevent infection.

Grooming

They come in both shorthair and longhair (sometimes called Highland Fold) varieties. Shorthairs need weekly brushing; longhairs need it more often to prevent mats.

Tail Handling

You must be very gentle when handling a Scottish Fold’s tail. Due to potential stiffness (see Health), it should never be pulled or bent forcefully.

5. Health and Genetics: The Controversy

The Scottish Fold breed is controversial because the gene that causes the ears to fold (Osteochondrodysplasia) affects cartilage throughout the body.

Osteochondrodysplasia

All Scottish Folds have some degree of this condition. In severe cases (especially if two Folds are bred together), it causes fusing of the tail, ankles, and knees, leading to lameness and pain. Responsible breeding (Fold x Straight) minimizes this, but it is a known risk.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

Like their British Shorthair cousins, they can be prone to PKD.

Arthritis

Owners often start their Folds on joint supplements early in life to support their cartilage health.

6. Is a Scottish Fold Right for You?

Pros

• Temperament: One of the sweetest, most easy-going breeds.
• Quiet: Very soft voice, not annoying.
• Cute Factor: Undeniably adorable appearance.

Cons

• Health: Potential for joint and cartilage issues is high.
• Ear Care: Requires regular cleaning.
• Ethical Concerns: Some registries do not recognize the breed due to health concerns.

Conclusion

The Scottish Fold is a charming, loving companion with a unique look. However, potential owners must be aware of the health implications associated with the breed and choose a breeder who prioritizes health above all else.