The Scottish Fold is a medium-size cat with a rounded head and big round eyes, although he is known for his standout feature of ears that fold forward, giving him the appearance of a furry owl. His coat, which comes in many colors and patterns, can be short or long. The longhaired variety is known as the Highland Fold.

History
When Scottish shepherd William Ross spotted a cat with unusual ears that folded over instead of standing up and later acquired one of her kittens, little did he know that his find would be the start of a new breed. Susie, a white barn cat, had the unusual ears, and her kittens did as well. The cats, which became known as Scottish Folds, were developed into a breed that is now 50 years old. Breeds that were used to create the Scottish Fold were Persians, American Shorthairs, Exotics and Burmese.

Today, they can be outcrossed to American Shorthairs and British Shorthairs, but Scottish Folds have a look that is all their own, with a rounded body, a rounded head and round eyes. Scottish Folds are recognized by several registries, including the Cat Fanciers Association and The International Cat Association.

Health
All cats have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Run, don’t walk, from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on kittens or who tells you that her kittens are isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons.

Remember that after you’ve taken a new kitten into your home, you have the power to protect him from one of the most common health problems: obesity. Keeping a Scottish Fold at an appropriate weight is one of the easiest ways to protect his overall health. Make the most of your preventive abilities to help ensure a healthier cat for life.

Grooming
Groom a shorthaired Scottish Fold weekly to keep his coat shiny and healthy. A Highland Fold should be combed twice a week to prevent or remove mats and tangles.

The only other grooming the Scottish Fold needs is regular nail trimming, usually weekly, and ear cleaning only if the ears look dirty. Use a gentle ear cleanser recommended by your veterinarian. Brush the teeth frequently with a vet-approved pet toothpaste for good overall health and fresh breath. Start nail trimming and teeth brushing early so your kitten becomes accepting of this activity.

Adopting a Scottish Fold from a Rescue or Shelter
The Scottish Fold is an unusual and uncommon breed. It is unlikely that you will find one in a shelter or through a rescue group, but it doesn’t hurt to look. Sometimes pedigreed cats end up at the shelter after losing their home to an owner’s death, divorce or change in economic situation. Check the listings on Petfinder, Adopt-a-Pet.com or the Fanciers Breeder Referral List, and ask breeders if they know of a Scottish Fold who is in need of a new home.

Wherever you acquire your Scottish Fold, make sure you have a good contract with the seller, shelter or rescue group that spells out responsibilities on both sides. In states with “pet lemon laws,” be sure you and the person you get the cat from both understand your rights and recourses.

Kitten or adult, take your Scottish Fold to your veterinarian soon after adoption. Your veterinarian will be able to spot problems, and will work with you to set up a preventive regimen that will help you avoid many health issues and enjoy years of joy from this beautiful and unique cat breed. Please visit this link to learn more about the Scottish Fold.