Scottish Fold

Cat Breed Profile, Appearance, Personality, Characteristics, Care & Useful Information to Pet Owners

All You Need To Know

Owning a Scottish Fold In Malaysia

Scottish Fold cats are one of the more popular cat breeds one can find in Malaysia. Iconically known for their folded ears, rounded face and squishy paws, this adorable cat holds some secrets within their fold that every potential owner should know about before introducing these cats into their lives.

At Petchef, we believe that it is the parent’s responsibility to prepare the best living conditions for their furkids. Read on to know more about the history, physical traits, personality, care requirements, and reasons why the Scottish Fold cat may be the cat for you.

Breed overview

Personality

Affectionate, easy going, friendly and lazy

Weight

9 to 13 pounds (4 to 6 kg), Females: 6 to 9 pounds (2.7 to 4 kg)

Size

Medium, compact and muscular

Coat length

Either short or long

Coat color

White, black, blue, red, cream, blue-silver, blue-cream or silver (chinchilla shade)

Coat patterns

Solid, tabby and bi-colour

Eye color

Gold (most common), copper, green, blue, orange

Lifespan

Up to 15 years

Hypoallergenic

No

Origin

Scotland

Personality & Characteristics

Scottish Folds are affectionate, friendly, and calm cats. They’re sociable, curious, and intelligent, making them great companions. Their easygoing nature fits well in various living environments, allowing them to get along with kids and other pets.

Affection level

High

Friendliness

High

Kid-Friendly

High

Pet-Friendly

High

Exercise needs

Low

Playfullness

Medium

Energy level

Low

Trainability

Medium

Intelligence

Medium

Tendency to Vocalize

Low

History & Origin

The Scottish Fold breed was first noted in Scotland in the early 1960s, already displaying its characteristic ear fold. This fold is due to a condition called Osteochondrodysplasia, which affects cartilage. This genetic issue led to the breed being barred from cat shows, and its registration was revoked in 1971.

Scottish Folds remain unrecognised by breed associations and are banned in Europe. Despite this, the breed faces health issues and often experiences pain.

Grooming & Care

Scottish Fold cats are considered moderately high maintenance due to their semi-longhaired coat..
Here are some grooming and care tips:

  • Brushing:

    Short coat Scottish Folds require weekly brushing to manage shedding and keep their coat in good condition. Long coat Scottish Folds require more frequent brushing (2-3 times a week), to prevent mats and tangles.

  • Bathing:

    Scottish Fold cats generally do not require frequent bathing unless they get dirty. Use a mild cat shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing

  • Nail Trimming

    Every 2-4 weeks helps prevent overgrowth and potential injury from sharp claws.

  • Ear Cleaning:

    Regular inspection and gentle cleaning is important to prevent infections or buildup. Work up and away from the ear canal opening with a cotton swab soaked in ear cleaner, and avoid pulling on the delicate cartilage.

  • Dental Care:

    Use a cat-specific toothbrush (pr finger) and toothpaste to brush every 2-3 weeks, ideally everyday.

Common Health Issues

Scottish Folds though adorable, fall into the category of “torture breeds” as they are bred for abnormalities and diseases that cause immense suffering to the cat. Aside from the usual roulette of diseases that include Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), Urinary tract issues, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and obesity, they may also face:

  • Osteochondrodysplasia:

    This condition is a disorder affecting bone and cartilage growth. All kittens of this breed are born with this hereditary issue. The distinctive folded ears are a result of this condition, which can also cause short, misshapen limbs and lameness. These problems may lead to joint inflammation and pain. Occasionally, breeders cross Scottish Folds with breeds like British Shorthairs to lessen the severity of the condition, but every cat still experiences some degree of Osteochondrodysplasia.

  • Brachycephaly (Shortened Snout)::

    For “aesthetic purposes”, these features are a result of breeders specifically selecting for these traits. A short snout is never healthy as it leads to breathing problems, dental issues, and eye conditions.

  • Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD):

    Like other purebred cats, Scottish Folds are prone to this genetic condition that causes cysts in the kidneys. This disease is challenging to treat, and a cat suffering from it must remain under the care of a specialist.

  • Hereditary Congenital (Inborn Deafness):

    Typically observed in Scottish Folds that are completely white, this congenital condition is irreversible untreatable and ultimately handicaps the cat of one essential sense that’ll allow them to explore the outdoors safely.

  • Neonatal Isoerythrolysis:

    This breed has a higher likelihood of being born with blood type B, which significantly raises the risk of red blood cell destruction in kittens. This can cause severe anaemia and often leads to the kitten's death.

Caring for a cat that’s born with a laundry list of deformities will require a lot more time and monetary investments to ensure their well-being. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and maintaining a stress-free environment can help manage these health issues and ensure a Scottish Fold’s overall well-being.

Diet and Nutrition

Scottish Folds require a balanced diet to maintain their large size and overall health. Here are some dietary considerations:

  • High-Quality Protein:

    Being obligate carnivores (meaning their diet primarily consists of meat), Scottish Fold cats need a diet rich in high-quality animal protein.

  • Balanced Nutrition:

    Ensure the cat food provides a balanced mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

  • Portion Control:

    Scottish Fold cats are prone to obesity, so it's important to monitor their food intake and avoid overfeeding. Follow the feeding guidelines on the cat food packaging and adjust based on your cat's activity level and weight.

  • Fresh Water:

    Always provide access to fresh, clean water. Consider using a cat water fountain to encourage hydration.

Starting from only RM75 a month (or RM2.50 a day), Petchef’s team of vets and chefs can curate the perfect meal plan for your furkid! Each meal contains quality meat (chicken, beef, buffalo) or fish (salmon, tuna) and vegetables to ensure your furkid fulfils all their nutritional needs. No preservatives, no additives, no fillers or grains; only food they were born to eat.

Lifestyle and Living

Living with Scottish Folds is relatively easy because they are highly adaptable cats that can easily make themselves at home. Here are some tips for your cat to live their best life:

  • Indoor vs. Outdoor:

    Cats are generally inquisitive and curious beings. It’s great to allow them to explore the outdoors under close supervision like being on a leash or tagged/microchipped if allowed to free roam. Otherwise, a catio (or a window bird feeder) would be a safe option that also lets them “experience” the outdoors from the safety of being indoors.

  • Enrichment:

    To keep them mentally stimulated and physically active. Incorporating interactive play into their routines, scratching posts, vertical spaces, hideouts and perches as well as catios into your space will give them opportunities to explore and observe their surroundings. Rotating their toys and using puzzle feeders regularly can also keep them interested and save your couches from their bored claws..

  • Social Interaction:

    They are sociable and generally friendly with visitors. They also get along well with dogs and other cats with proper introduction. They enjoy being around their human companions, often following them from room to room. While they are affectionate, they are not overly demanding of attention. They appreciate petting and cuddling but also enjoy their independence.

  • Exercise:

    Scottish Fold cats benefit from regular exercise to maintain their physical health and mental stimulation. They enjoy interactive play, climbing, chasing, puzzle toys, agility training, hunting games, exploration, social play with pets, running, and using cat trees or wheels for exercise.

Where to Adopt or Buy

In Malaysia, there are several options for adopting or purchasing a Scottish Fold cat:

  1. Animal Shelters and Rescues: Check local animal shelters and rescue organisations. While Scottish Folds might not be as common in shelters as domestic shorthairs, there’s still a chance of finding one in need of a loving home.
  2. Breeders: Look for reputable Scottish Fold breeders in Malaysia. Ensure they are registered with a recognized cat breeding association, follow ethical breeding practices and have done the necessary tests to screen for genetics-related health concerns. You can find breeders through online directories, cat shows, or recommendations from local veterinarians.
  3. Online Platforms: Websites and online forums dedicated to pets often have listings for Scottish Fold kittens or cats available for adoption or purchase. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of sellers before making any commitments.
  4. Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or Instagram may have local groups or pages where breeders or individuals post about Scottish Folds available for adoption or sale.

Use Diligence

When adopting or purchasing a Scottish Fold, always prioritise the health and well-being of the cat. Ensure the seller provides health records, vaccinations, and proper documentation. It’s also essential to visit the cat in person, if possible, to assess its temperament and living conditions.

Conclusion

Scottish Folds are known for their charming looks and gentle personalities, making them a popular choice for cat lovers. However, it is crucial for potential pawrents of Scottish Folds to do extensive research on the care requirements and breeders before committing to it.

Pros of Scottish Fold Cats Cons of Scottish Fold Cats
Low maintenance grooming
Multiple Genetic conditions and health risks
Minimal vocalisation
Potential for pain
Friendly and sociable but calm
Costs incurred for health issues

FAQs

Most common questions about Scottish Fold asked and possibly not covered by the above sections.

The cost of a Scottish Fold cat can vary widely depending on factors such as the cat’s lineage, age, and whether it is a show-quality (RM5,000 to RM8,000) or pet-quality (RM2,000 to RM5,000) cat.

Their affectionate and tolerant nature makes them well-suited for families with children, dogs and cats.

Scottish Fold Cats are special because of their unique appearances and calm yet friendly demeanour.

Their health needs, including monitoring for genetic conditions, require attention, but Scottish Folds are typically easy to groom, easygoing and adaptable, making them relatively low-maintenance overall.

Article sources:

Reviewed by:

Picture of Evelyn

Evelyn

Pet Expert & Writer

Evelyn is a knowledgeable pet expert and seasoned writer with many years of experience as a dedicated pet owner. She specializes in cat breeds, nutrition, and behavior, delivering well-researched and reliable information to empower pet owners with valuable insights.