Cat
Breed Description:
The Scottish Fold has unusual facial features, due to the unique shape of its ears. All Scottish Folds are born with regular pointed ears, but the ones that have the folded ear gene don’t usually show up for about three weeks after birth. The folds are a reflection of a mutated gene that was passed from the parents to the kittens, and now through the work of science Scottish Folds are being bred with not one, but multiple folds in the ears. The frame of a Scottish Fold is rounded and broad, with the average weight for a male being around 15 pounds and around 10 pounds for a female. The coat can range from short hair to long hair and can be any variation of colors.
Temperament:
A Scottish Fold is a naturally quiet and affectionate cat that enjoys spending one-on-one time with its owner. The cat is moderately active and enjoys if its owner is participating in playtime. The Scottish Fold breed of cat is committed to its owner and is usually seen at the side of their owner.
Health Problems:
Scottish Folds live to be about 15 years of age and are relatively healthy cats. Some health concerns arise for this cat, such as polycystic kidney disease, Cardiomyopathy (known as heart disease) and Osteochondrodysplasia, which is the formation of muscles and tissue. Many scientists believe that Osteochondrodysplasia is what causes the Scottish Folds to be born with the folded ears.
Living Conditions:
The Scottish Fold enjoys being around its family, so living as an indoor cat is best and an owner that spends a lot of time at home is what a Scottish Fold prefers.
Exercise:
The Scottish Fold prefers to be inside, but the occasional walks down the street on a leash or harness, or even short amounts of time by its owner’s side outside are important for this minimally active cat.
Grooming:
Weekly brushings are needed to ensure the comfort of this breed. Additional brushings may be needed as shedding begins as well.
Origin:
The first sighting of the Scottish Fold was nearly 50 years ago on a farm in Scotland. The cat was a female named Susie that later had two kittens; one was fixed and kept as a family pet and the other was used to breed. The one kitten was lent to an English breeder who began heavily breeding and promoting the breed. 