Scottish Fold Cat

Read our comprehensive guide to Scottish Fold Cats, including information on predisposed health issues, exercise needs, family friendliness, grooming, history, overview & temperament.

Cat
17 Oct 2023

History of Scottish Fold Cats 

As the name implies, Scottish Fold cats originated in Scotland. Their ancestry can be traced all the way back to a single barn cat called Susie who, due to a genetic mutation, had unusual folded ears. This feature caught the attention of many cat breeders who then began crossing Susie and her offspring with American and British shorthair cats.

In 1963, two British cat breeders named Mary and William Ross fell in love with Susie and were then given one of the female kittens named Snooks, also bearing the same folded ears. They bred this cat with a red male tabby, the result of which was a male kitten. This same male kitten was then bred with a British shorthair, whose resulting litter of five kittens helped to establish this new breed.  

What to expect when caring for your Scottish Fold Cat

Common Scottish Fold Cat Health Issues

The Scottish Fold’s genetic trait of folded ears is due to a defect in the production of cartilage. Whilst it looks cute, these folded ears come with a cost. The same defect that causes this change in the cartilage of the ears can also cause problems in the cartilage in the bones, a condition which is called osteochondrodysplasia.

Scottish Fold cat owners should also keep an eye on their pets for any signs of arthritis, as this is a common issue for this breed. Most – if not all – Scottish Fold cats develop varying degrees of degenerative joint disease which can lead to chronic pain.

Scottish Folds are also predisposed to polycystic kidney disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which causes thickening of the heart muscle.

 

How Much Grooming Do Scottish Fold Cats Need?

Scottish Fold cats are very low maintenance, and do not require a lot of meticulous grooming. They do shed a little, but despite this they only need their lush coats combed out once a week at most. Long-haired Scottish Folds may need a little bit more brushing to maintain their coat and keep it tangle free, however.

Scottish Fold cat owners will obviously have to pay special attention to their pet’s ears, as the cats will have difficulty cleaning it themselves so owners will need to remove any wax or dirt build up to keep it clean and prevent ear infections.

How Much Exercise Do Scottish Fold Cats Need?

Scottish Folds are not overly active felines, but they still need exercise and stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Keep them active and engaged by having scratching posts, a mixture of vertical and horizontal spaces for them to play in including perches and hiding places.

It’s also recommended to establish a routine with regular social and play sessions with the family as it is essential for their well-being.

  1. Scottish Fold Cat Personality Traits

    What to expect from your Scottish Fold Cat

    Scottish Fold cats are sweet, calm and loyal pets who thoroughly enjoy human companionship. They are quite soft-voiced and quiet cats, but at the same time they like attention from their family too – although they are not overly demanding. Don’t let their calm and quiet demeanour fool you though, Scottish Fold cats love to explore and be the centre of attention. They’re also quite intelligent cats and love to engage in interactive games or play with interactive toys such as those that fly or flutter. You can also keep them entertained by hiding treats around the house for them to find, as Scottish Fold cats love a challenge and love to explore.

  2. Are Scottish Fold Cats Family Friendly?

    How will they behave around my family?

    Scottish Fold cats are great family pets and easy to live with and care for. They’re very affectionate and bond extremely well with their favourite humans, as well as younger children and any other pets you may have in your home. Whilst they do have quite a soft and quiet voice, they can be quite chatty and love to communicate with their caregivers in soft chirps. They do love to explore, but at heart Scottish Fold cats are homebodies and thrive best as indoor cats.

Key Facts Summary
Size:
8-10 inches
Weight:
6-9 pounds (female) or 9-13 pounds (male)
Temperament:
Sociable, affectionate, quiet
Lifespan
9-15 Years
Average Cost:
£500

Scottish Fold Cat FAQs:

What is wrong with Scottish Fold cats’ ears?

Due to a genetic mutation, many (but not all) Scottish Fold cats have downturned or folded ears due to reduced production of cartilage. To many cat lovers it’s an adorable and desirable trait, but it can also cause health issues for the cats, such as arthritis.

Do Scottish Folds require special care?

Scottish Folds do not require any particular special care, but owners should keep a close eye on their health and condition in general as they are more prone to certain health conditions than other cats, such as arthritis and bone problems.  

There are a number of common health issues that Scottish Fold Cats are prone to, and as a pet owner it’s worth considering insurance to help protect against unexpected vet bills. Take a look at Asda Money Pet Insurance to see the kind of cover you could get for your cat.

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