SCOTTISH FOLD

Ghana
1994

In 1961, a shepherd spotted the first known Scottish Fold at a farm near Coupar Angus in Scotland, and proceeded to develop the breed. The unique thing about this white barn cat was that her ears folded forward and downward on her head, giving the impression of a "pixie," "owl," or "teddy bear."

Scottish Fold kittens are born with straight ears. At about three to four weeks, their ears fold . . . or they don't! It is usually around eleven to twelve weeks of age that the breeder can determine the quality (pet, breeder or show). Sadly, the gene that causes the folded ears seems to be linked to certain physical abnormalities -- a thickened tail caused by the fusing of tail vertebrae, and thickened legs (cartilage growing around the paws) making walking difficult. As a result of this genetic link, breeders only put their cats with non-folded mates.

The Fold is a medium cat with a well-padded, round body and a short, dense coat. It has large, round, broadly spaced eyes full of sweetness, and a short nose with a gentle curve. Scottish Folds are hardy cats, much like their barnyard ancestors. Their disposition matches their sweet expression. They have tiny voices and are not extremely vocal. They adore human companionship and display this in their own quiet way.