“Everybody adores a Scottish Fold.”
“How could a Scottish Fold not gain a social media following?”
These round-faced, big-eyed, stuffed animals of cats could melt the hardest heart on the planet.
Here are 11 reasons why we love this breed.
1. It’s a teddy bear! It’s an owl! It’s a pixie!
Actually, you're looking at a cat, but you're on the right track. Dubbed an "owl in a cat suit" by breeders, the Scottish Fold has earned a reputation as one adorable specimen given her perma-Cheshire Cat grin; soulful, oversized eyes; and folded ears.
2. Sometimes they fold, sometimes they don’t
Sometimes they fold, sometimes they don't it's a 50-50 chance that breeders take with each litter, and it depends on whether one parent possesses the folded-ear gene.
Believe it or not, all Scottish Folds are born with straight ears.
It's not until they are three or four weeks of age before their ears fold downward and sometimes, they simply don't. For show purposes, however, only cats sporting folded ears can hit the ring.
3. No hearing problems
Nope! While folded ears look different, they are quite similar to standard straight ears, the main difference being that they require biweekly cleaning, as wax tends to build up quickly.
4. A barn cat named Susie
The first Scottish Fold was discovered by shepherd William Ross on a neighbor's farm in the Tayside Region of Scotland in 1961. He began asking about the cat's heritage, only to learn that the feline, called Susie, was born to a mother with straight ears and a father of unknown heritage.
Falling hard for the unusual look, William and his wife, Mary, quickly adopted one of Susie’s offspring, a fold-ear called Snooks.
They became invested in creating their own breed, which they referred to as ‘lop-eared' like the rabbit. Breeding Snooks to British Shorthairs and local farm cats, William was able to solidify the foundation of Scottish Folds in feline society earning Cat Fanciers' Association registration in 1973 and Grand Championship status in 1978. The International Cat Association accepted the breed when the organization was chartered in 1979. TICA also accepts the Scottish Straight in its own class.
5. A stand-up cat
Scottish Folds are known to stand up prairie dog style when they hear something that piques their interest. You also can catch them in a sitting position called "the Buddha sit" with their legs stretched out and paws on their belly.
6. Hopelessly devoted
The Scottish Fold is exceptionally devoted and loyal, tending to form a strong bond with one person in the household. That's not to say they won't cuddle with anyone who throws a kiss their way, but they do play favorites.
7. A circle theme
What shape do you see repeatedly when you look at the Scottish Fold? If you answered circle, you're right. Scottish Folds are known to feature a very round, roly-poly aesthetic. Face, eyes, whisker pads, body it's all circular here.
8. Cute quotient rising
If you loved the Buddha sit, you'll dig some of the other cute and quirky Scottish Fold traits. Our favorite? Many eat their food with their paws!
9. One easy-going breed
Scottish Folds are well-known for their laid-back personality. They love kids (even noisy ones), dogs, and other cats; have zero issues about traveling; and will totally act as hostess for your next dinner party. Just don't be alarmed if they flop down onto their back and hit the snooze button it's completely normal for them to sleep this way.
10. Sweet personalities
Much like their looks, the Scottish Fold's demeanor can be described in one simple way: soft and sweet. They're known for being mild-mannered, soft-spoken, intelligent, adaptable, and sweet-tempered.
11. Training? You bet
It's totally possible with this adaptable breed. The Scottish Fold can be trained to play fetch and easily learn how to open cabinet doors so lock up anything you don't want them to find.
