An owl-faced charmer with famously folded ears.
Origin
Scotland
Weight
6–13 lb (2.7–6 kg)
Lifespan
11–15 years
Coat
Short or long, dense, plush coat
Energy
Moderate
Where it comes from
Scotland
Highlighted in the Scottish Fold's coat color on the map.
Overview
The Scottish Fold is instantly recognized by its forward-folded ears, the result of a natural cartilage mutation that gives it a rounded, owl-like face. Sweet-faced and adaptable, it comes in both short and long-coated varieties.
Gentle, affectionate, and easygoing, the Scottish Fold is a devoted companion that bonds warmly with its family and enjoys being involved without being demanding. It is playful and adaptable, often sitting in a comical upright “Buddha” pose.
History
The Scottish Fold began in 1961 with a folded-ear farm cat named Susie in Scotland. The distinctive trait was developed into a breed, though the cartilage mutation behind it carries important health considerations.
Temperament
The Scottish Fold is sweet, mellow, and people-oriented, generally good with children and other pets. It bonds closely and enjoys company, is playful and adaptable, and tends to be quiet and undemanding.
Health to watch
The cartilage mutation causing folded ears also affects joints and can cause painful skeletal disease; responsible breeding and monitoring are essential.
This common feline heart disease occurs in the breed; periodic cardiac screening helps catch it early.
An inherited kidney condition can occur; a DNA test and monitoring support early management.
General breed tendencies, not a diagnosis. Every cat is an individual — pair this with regular veterinary care.
Care essentials
Watch for stiffness or reluctance to jump, as the breed's cartilage mutation can cause joint disease.
Brush the short coat weekly or the long coat more often to prevent mats and manage shedding.
The affectionate Scottish Fold enjoys company and gentle involvement in family life.
XPET builds each pet a digital twin — modeling their real biology instead of breed averages, so care stays personal.