The Scottish Fold’s flat face and tiny ears are unusual features for a cat. However, feline fanciers from across the globe have fallen in love with their unique looks and sweet personalities. Scottish Folds have tucked or folded ears, hence their name, giving them an adorable teddy-bear-like appearance. Sadly, the gene responsible for their short ears also increases their risk of osteochondrodysplasia, a disease affecting their joints. Let’s get to know the Scottish Fold and why they have folded ears.
Folded Ears Result from a Genetic Mutation
The reason for the Scottish Folds’ curved ears results from a genetic anomaly affecting cats. It leaves affected cats without cartilage in their ears. Unfortunately, the defect that is responsible for their small ears can lead to painful arthritis that affects their joints and mobility. Surprisingly, not all Scottish Fold kittens in a litter will inherit folded ears. The kittens that do not inherit the incomplete dominant gene will develop normal ears and are called “straights.”
Originating from a Scotland farm, this breed was once rugged and hardy but today, breeders have developed a plush coated, and soft-natured cat. They are not only bred for the show ring but to make loving family pets.
Are Scottish Folds Good for Beginners?
Now that we know why Scottish Folds have such an odd appearance, the next question is whether they make good beginner pets. This tucked-ear cat breed is a great choice for first-time cat owners and families with children. The popular Scottish Fold is described as having a docile temperament, and they’re quite affectionate, making them easy to handle.
What new cat owners must consider before getting a Scottish Fold is their grooming and healthcare needs. The long-haired cats require brushing at least two to three times a week, whereas shorthair Scottish Folds can get away with weekly brushes. Because there is no guarantee concerning the severity of arthritis in this breed, you must prepare for the costs of healthcare to support their mobility.
How Often Should You Groom a Scottish Fold?
If you aren’t too keen on constantly grooming your cat, consider the shorthair Scottish Fold, a rather exotic cat breed. The shorter coat only requires a weekly brush to keep it clean. Brushing is not only beneficial for their fur but also distributes the natural oils found on their skin, giving them a beautiful shine. To maintain healthy skin and joints, provide your cat with a nutritious diet. Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are great additions to your pet’s meals, offering the benefits of cognitive support and reduced inflammation.
The longer-haired Scottish Folds need frequent brushing to remove knots and dirt that easily get trapped in their coats. You don’t have to bathe your Scottish Fold at the same rate as brushing. Scottish Folds should only be washed every few months or if they’re quite dirty after an outside romp.
The Scottish Fold’s Personality and Need for Enrichment
Charming, loving, and quiet best describe the personality traits of the gorgeous Scottish Fold. While they aren’t overly dependent on their family, they enjoy company and have quite an inquisitive nature. Despite their overall friendliness, Scottish Folds may be apprehensive about meeting strangers. Should you decide to bring a new cat home, always supervise them around your Scotty. The tucked ears on the Scottish Fold may communicate fear to another cat, which could start a fight. Introductions should be initiated slowly allowing both cats to get accustomed to one another to avoid problems.
A Scottish Fold may not be the most active cat but they do enjoy a game of fetch or enrichment with their favorite cat toys. They should have time outdoors or in the safety of a cattery where they can run and jump. Activity is not only mentally stimulating but will keep them in good shape. Maintaining mobility and a healthy weight is particularly important for cats susceptible to arthritis.
The Healthcare Needs of the Scottish Fold
The Scottish Fold has quite challenging healthcare needs, including the development of arthritis at a fairly young age. Every Scottish Fold kitten that is born with folded ears will develop some form of osteochondrodysplasia. While the condition is manageable in some, it is quite severe in others, resulting in quality-of-life issues. Your veterinarian can provide chronic support to ease pain and help affected cats with mobility problems.
In addition to arthritic changes, the flat face of this breed increases their risk of brachycephalic syndrome. A brachycephalic cat has a shorter nasal passage than a regular cat, affecting their normal respiration.
Tips for Finding a Trusted Scottish Fold Breeder
Once you’re ready to bring your Scottish Fold home, look for a reputable breeder. Start by verifying their certification or registration with the relevant breeders’ clubs and associations in your region. Also, ask some questions. Do they perform DNA testing to rule out conditions like polycystic kidney disease (PKD), and is their cattery clean, spacious, and well-organized? Reliable breeders are knowledgeable and always transparent about their practices and the treatment of their cats.
If possible, take the time to visit the cattery so you can see where your kitten is coming from. This will also allow you to interact with the parents to assess their personalities and overall condition. You want a kitten from healthy parents that is raised in a social and clean environment. This can avoid fearfulness and shyness.
So, before you bring a kitten home, determine whether this cat breed is the right choice for your family. The Scottish Fold has a lifespan of between 11 and 15 years, and they’re one of the best pet cat breeds for families. They have a soft nature, and they’re not overly active making them the perfect cuddle companions that enjoy their playtime.
