Spotlight on...The Scottish Fold Cat
Matchmaker, Matchmaker
The Scottish Fold Cat
Size: Medium, 6-13 lbs.
Grooming needs: Longhaired requires daily brushing.
Exercise: Low. Play is sufficient.
Environment: Indoor.
Temperament: Affectionate, Playful and Placid.
Life Expectancy: 15 years
Interesting fact: The Scottish Fold has a genetic mutation that can present as a fold in the ear cartilage. All Folds are born with straight, unfolded ears, and those with the fold gene usually begin to show it within about three weeks. Kittens without the fold gene are called Straights. For those with the gene the ears are bent forward and toward the head, giving the cat a unique appearance. The breed was originally called “lop-eared” or “lop.” In 1966 the breed name changed to Scottish Fold, or sometimes referred to as the Highland Fold, Scottish Fold Longhair, Longhair Fold or Coupari.
A Scottish Fold you may know: Maru, the YouTube sensation, is actually a straight-eared Scottish Fold!
Appearance: Their body has an overall rounded appearance, with a short neck, domed head, short nose, and large, round, wide-set eyes. This breed can be long- or shorthaired, with nearly any coat color or combination of colors.
Personality: These adorable, padded looking cats are known for sleeping on their backs. The Fold is typically quite affectionate and good-natured. They are known to be placid and well adjusted with other household pets. Owners also describe them as playful, intelligent and loyal. The Scottish Fold is said to be soft-spoken, but tend to have a wider repertoire of vocalizations than other breeds.
Pretty Girl
Common Health Problems: The dominant gene that produces fold ears may cause a degenerative joint disease in kittens bred from two fold-ear parents. This disease affects the spine, legs and tail, typically presenting in 4-6 months.
Best Match: Folds are generally adaptable to various home situations and do well with adults and children alike.
Featured Adoptable: Pretty Girl is a petite Scottish Fold mix rescued from a hoarding situation, along with her sister Sassy. Pretty girl is tame but likes to be left alone to do her own thing. She tolerates other cats, but can be a little grumpy toward them at times. Pretty Girl is located at Belleglen Sanctuary in Chico, CA. For more information visit www.belleglensanctuary.com.
Megan Mahan lives in Eugene with her boyfriend, Jacob, their adopted yellow Lab Maddie, many saltwater fish, and two miniature Silver Appleyard ducks, Louie and Olive.