The Scottish Fold Cat

The Scottish Fold cat is a mutation developed from a single white cat found in a barn in Scotland in 1966. This female, named Susie, had several kittens with the same "folded" ears, and these were bred with British Shorthair cats to produce the breed. In the U.S., descendants of Susie were bred to American Shorthair cats with similar results- a plump, short-legged, owl-faced cat with a charming, and fun-loving personality, just as easy-going and pleasant as could be. The Scottish Fold is exceptional inside and out and they have recently become very popular. These are exceptional pets for families and children, but they do not like to be left alone. Another cat for company is acceptable.

 Cool Cat Facts...
Scottish Fold kittens are born with normal ears that begin to fold over around the third week of life. Often occurring within the same litter, some individuals ears never fold, and these cats are called, not very cleverly, "straights."                                                                       

Is A Scottish Fold Cat Right For You?

The Scottish Fold cat is recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), the world's largest cat organization. It is a relatively uncommon pure-bred or "pedigreed" domestic cat breed. These cats have some unique characteristic and are particularly sweet-tempered. They are known to sleep on their backs and to "sit-up" with their front paws resting on their ample bellies in a kind of Buddha-pose. The Scottish Fold comes in any color or pattern The coat is dense with a plush undercoat. Shedding may be high and regular grooming is desired. These are chunky, medium-sized cats that have several breed-related health issues, most of which can be avoided if extra care in the selection of a breeder is employed. Because it is mellow and desires interaction, the Scottish Fold is a superb family cat that does exceptionally well with, and often seems to cherish children.

Scottish Fold Cat Breed Standards

Head Shape: The head is round with a firm, chin and round, full cheeks. A flattened, or dish face is typical, but not necessary. Males can appear quite jowly as they mature and this is a desirable trait.  The ears should be small, folding over forward and downward. Tightly folded, tiny ears are highly desirable. The ears are set to the sides, and ideally, frame the rounded skullcap on either side.  The eyes should be round and quite wide with a sweet expression. One of the breeds most beautiful features. Any eye color but some preferences depending on coat color.
Body and Tail: The body is medium size and well rounded with hips equally as wide as shoulders. Firm, muscular and thick. Legs are short to medium with good bone and large, round, well-knuckled feet. The tail is medium to long and tapering. A long tail is desirable.
Coat: Short in length, plush, soft and dense. There are longer coats occasionally.
Pattern: All colors and patterns are accepted.
Overall Appearance: This should be a medium size, somewhat cobby cat, otherwise well-formed and of classic shorthair style. The remarkable ears, coupled with the wide, round eyes set it apart and give this cat perhaps the most unique expression in the feline world. Adorable inside and out, the Scottish Fold cat is an exceptional choice.

Inside Cat or Outside Cat?

Wondering if you should allow your cat to go outside unsupervised? Well there are definitely some pure breeds that should never be outside cats. Hairless breeds like the Sphynx are extremely vulnerable and should always be supervised outdoors. Docile breeds like the Burmese may not be able to defend themselves. All cats allowed outdoors are exposed to diseases and parasites that they would not otherwise encounter. Fred Flintstone put his saber-tooth out every night, but the cat jumped right back in the window - and he was a saber-tooth! Still, most of us feel a little envy when we see our domestic companion out on some high perch, sniffing the breeze of liberty, and there is no doubt that cats love their freedom. So what do YOU think ....Inside Cat or Outside Cat? Comment Here...

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