Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold is a cat breed that undoubtedly stands out for its small and folded forward ears, which gives it a unique appearance. The tips of the ears are also rounded. This feature, combined with the large, open eyes, makes it very recognizable. Known for their calm and affectionate temperament, they are not very active cats due to their health problems.

General details

Scottish Fold cats are medium-sized, with males typically weighing between 4 and 6 kilograms and females between 2.7 and 4 kilograms. They are approximately 20 to 25 centimeters tall and have a body length of about 36 to 41 centimeters. Under normal conditions, they can live between 14 and 16 years. This breed is recognized by associations such as the International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA).

Breed history in brief

The Scottish Fold has its origins in Scotland, where a white farm cat named Susie with forward folded ears was discovered in 1961. Susie was the first known Scottish Fold and, after having kittens with the same folded ears, a selective breeding program was initiated to establish the breed. More than half of her offspring inherited the folded ears. This trait is due to a genetic defect that compromises the animal`s quality of life. It was officially recognized by several cat associations in the 1970s and 1980s. However, the GCCF stopped accepting registrations of these animals in the early 1970s, concerned about the health problems of this breed, and since then other associations have followed suit.

Breed characteristics

The Scottish Fold is a medium-sized breed with a muscular and well-proportioned body. Their eyes are large, round and expressive, and can be of any color, giving them a sweet, open appearance. The head is rounded, with a short neck. The ears are small and folded forward, a distinctive feature that gives them a unique appearance. The coat of the Scottish Fold can be short or long, the usual being short, and is dense. They can be any color, including white. They also have a wide variety of patterns. Scottish Folds are known to be calm, affectionate and friendly cats, due in part to their mobility problems. They are not recommended for purchase or breeding; they are an animal with health problems that lack quality of life, and are banned for these reasons in several countries.

Common health problems

The Scottish Fold can be prone to a genetic condition known as osteochondrodysplasia, a painful condition that affects mobility. They are also predisposed to arthritis and polycystic kidney disease.