Scottish Fold is really a cat breed that is made remarkable by its unique ears. As the name suggests the ears of the cat are folded forward and downward. In earlier cats there is only one fold, however, newer members of the breed often have 2-3 creases. The ears certainly are a consequence of genetic mutation and the first cat of this type was reported in Scotland in early nineteen sixties. The kitten was created in a litter of otherwise normal house cats. Ensuing breeding of the female cat indicated the dominant nature of the altered gene and thereafter it had been formally developed for the intended purpose of creation of a distinctive breed. Scottish Folds were imported in USA ten years later and were identified by major feline breed registration bodies in the coming years. They’re still not recognized in the British Isles though.
Even as the present day Scottish Fold was made primarily through crossing with American and British Shorthairs, it really is seen in both short and longhair versions. scottish fold is generally accepted in every colors and patterns except for the pointed variant. Build is medium with an average weight of eight to ten pounds. Head is rounded and flat at the top with widely spaced big bright eyes, a brief nose and the characteristic folded ears. The ears commence to fold within the first month of life. Not absolutely all kittens have folded ears. Some are born with straight ears and retain this trait. This is owing to the truth that if two ‘folded’ cats are employed for parenting, the resulting kittens invariably have problems with a joint anomaly which can be both painful and debilitating. Therefore ‘folded’ and ‘straight’ eared cats are crossed for breeding purposes and as a result litters usually are mixed.
Scottish Folds are not accepted by major British cat fanciers up to now. This is owing to the above mentioned hereditary disorder plus the unusual anatomy of their ears which leads many to believe that these cats are inclined to development of ear infections and hearing deficit. Generally although Folds are healthy and compact cats who live well into their teens if given normal health care and affection.
Sweet and quiet cats, Scottish Folds are blessed with a very pleasant personality. They are gentle and tolerant of other family members. They love to play and are energetic but would rather cuddle next to their humans the most.