Scottish Fold

Rumfold Red Bull

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Straight-eared Scottish Fold

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Scottish fold cat named Oreo

Scottish Fold is a breed of domestic cat with a natural dominant-gene mutation that affects cartilage throughout the body, causing the ears to "fold," bending forward and down towards the front of the head, which gives the cat what is often described as an "owl-like" appearance.

Originally called "lops" or "lop-eared," after the lop-eared rabbit, Scottish Folds were first discovered in 1961 by William Ross, a Scottish farmer, who noticed a white cat with unusual folded ears on his neighbor's farm. The cat, named Susie, was bred to other local cats, and one of her kittens was also born with folded ears. Ross acquired a kitten from Susie, which he named Snooks, and began a breeding program with the help of geneticist Pat Turner. The breed has since become popular, especially in the United States and Japan.

Characteristics

Scottish Folds can be either long or short-haired, and they may have nearly any coat color or combination of colors including white, black, blue, red, cream, silver, golden, and various patterns like tabby and calico.

The defining feature of the breed is, of course, the folded ears, which are caused by a mutation in the gene Tgfb3. This mutation affects the development of cartilage, leading to the folding of the ears. Not all Scottish Fold kittens will have folded ears; kittens born with straight ears are known as Scottish Straights. The fold gene is incomplete dominant, meaning that cats with two copies of the gene (homozygous) are prone to severe skeletal issues. Therefore, ethical breeding practices dictate that Scottish Folds should only be bred with straight-eared cats to avoid health problems.

Health Concerns

The unique cartilage mutation in Scottish Folds brings with it a risk of cartilage issues, including osteochondrodystrophy, a developmental abnormality that leads to severe and painful joint disease. This condition can affect not just the ears but also the tail, limbs, and joints, leading to limited mobility and even arthritis. Regular veterinary check-ups are recommended to monitor for signs of joint issues, and responsible breeding practices are crucial to minimize the risk of these health problems.

Care and Maintenance

Scottish Folds are known for their calm, companionable temperament. They are typically good-natured, affectionate cats that bond closely with their owners. They are moderately active and enjoy play but are just as happy to relax and cuddle. Their coat, whether long or short, requires regular grooming to prevent matting and reduce shedding. As with all cats, providing a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and ensuring they have a stimulating environment are key to a healthy, happy life.

Controversy

The breeding of Scottish Folds has been controversial due to the health issues associated with the fold gene. Some countries and breed associations have banned or discouraged the breeding of Scottish Folds due to concerns over ethical breeding practices and the welfare of the cats. Advocates for the breed argue that responsible breeding can minimize health risks, while critics argue that breeding animals with a known genetic predisposition to painful conditions is inherently unethical.

Conclusion

The Scottish Fold is a distinctive and charming breed, beloved for its unique appearance and friendly disposition. However, potential owners should be aware of the health issues associated with the breed and seek out responsible breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their cats. With proper care, Scottish Folds can make loving and delightful companions.