Scottish Fold cats are known for their distinctive folded ears that droop forward and downward, with rounded tips and a soft, pliable feel. Purebred Scottish Folds typically have smaller ears that are set wide apart. When caring for a Scottish Fold, it's crucial to start them on chondroitin supplements early in life to potentially mitigate the pain associated with osteochondrodysplasia, a common health issue in the breed.
Many Scottish Fold cats don't show their characteristic folded ears until they are 3 to 6 months old. Early detection and proactive care can significantly reduce their suffering. If one parent cat is a Scottish Fold, the kittens have a high likelihood of inheriting the folded ear gene. Breeding a Scottish Fold with a straight-eared cat can still result in kittens with osteochondrodysplasia. Currently, there are no successful cases of breeding a healthy Scottish Fold with no genetic diseases from a straight-eared and a folded-ear cat. It's also important to know that two straight-eared cats cannot produce a Scottish Fold kitten.
Identifying Features of a Scottish Fold Cat
Here are some key characteristics to help you identify a Scottish Fold:
1. Ears
The ears are folded, drooping forward and downward, with a rounded tip and a soft feel. The fold should be distinctive and noticeable.
2. 'False' Standing Ears
Some Scottish Folds may exhibit what is called 'false standing' of their ears. The shape of a Scottish Fold’s ear is more equilateral triangle-like while a straight ear cat's ear is shaped like an isosceles triangle. Scottish Fold ears are relatively small and set wide apart.
3. Genetic Testing
The most reliable way to determine if a cat is a Scottish Fold is through a genetic test. If you purchase a cat suspected to be a Scottish Fold from a pet store or breeder, request that they provide a genetic testing report to confirm its breed. This is critical for ensuring they are a true Scottish Fold and to be aware of potential health issues associated with this breed.