The Scottish Fold

The folded ears that give the Scottish Fold its name is the result of a genetic mutation. All Folds are born with straight, unfolded ears and those with the Fold gene will begin to develop the fold at about 3-4 weeks.

Breed Is Established-

The breed was established in 1976 and awarded full Championship status in 1978. The American Shorthair is the only accepted breed to which Scottish Folds may be out-crossed.

Characteristics-

The body of the Scottish Fold is medium sized, rounded and cobby. They have a full broad chest and are broad across the shoulders and rump. It should be both compact and powerful. The tail is medium in length, thick at the base and is less flexible than other cats. The head which is round and massive is set on a short, thick neck. Their ears are set wide apart and should show a clear fold line. The degree of the fold can vary from being either a small and tight fold to a larger and looser one. For showing the tight folded ears are preferred so that they appear “caplike” to expose a rounded cranium. The ears should also be rounded at their tips. The nose is broad and short and has a soft nose break. The cheeks are full and the whisker pads are well-rounded while the chin is full and well developed. The owl-like eyes are set wide apart and are full and round. The coat can be either long or short-haired and is thick, dense and soft.

Color Varieties-

All colors except colorpoint, lilac (lavender) and chocolate. Eye color should be appropriate to the coat color.

Temperament-

Scottish Folds by nature are typically quite affectionate, good-natured, placid, intelligent, playful, soft-spoken and loyal. They tend to adjust to other animals in the household very well.

Care-

Light weekly grooming. Ear cleaning should be performed regularly as well as the tight, tiny ears may build up wax.