Scottish Fold
Known for folded ears caused by a cartilage mutation — the same mutation causes painful degenerative joint disease in every folded cat. Ethically contentious and not registered by the GCCF.
Key facts
Lifespan
11–15 years
Weight
2.5–6 kg
Grooming
Moderate
Shedding
Moderate
First-time owners
Experience helps
About the Scottish Fold
The folded ear results from a dominant cartilage mutation (osteochondrodysplasia) that also affects cartilage throughout the body. Vets and welfare bodies including the BVA have called for breeding to stop, because all folded cats develop some degree of painful arthritis, sometimes very early. The GCCF does not register the breed in the UK. Temperamentally they are sweet and placid; the concern is entirely about inherited pain.
Living with a Scottish Fold
Indoor life with soft surfaces and easy-access litter trays.
- Good with children
- Good with other pets
- Suitable for first-time owners
Health
Conditions this breed is commonly predisposed to. This is general information, not veterinary advice — speak to a vet about any specific animal.
- Osteochondrodysplasia — degenerative joint disease affecting all folded cats
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Arthritis pain may appear in young cats
Ask the breeder for
- Cardiac scanning; PKD screening
- There is no test that removes the cartilage problem in folded cats
Buying a Scottish Fold
The BVA advises against breeding folded cats, and the GCCF does not register them. If you want the temperament without the joint disease, straight-eared cats from the same lines (British Shorthairs) do not carry the mutation.
Read the full safe-buying guideScottish Folds for sale
No Scottish Fold adverts are live right now. New adverts are posted daily — or set your sights a little wider.
All cats for saleScottish Fold FAQs
How long do Scottish Folds live?
A Scottish Fold typically lives 11–15 years.
Are Scottish Folds good for first-time owners?
Scottish Folds are better suited to owners with previous experience, because of their training, exercise or handling needs.
What health tests should a Scottish Fold breeder have done?
Cardiac scanning; PKD screening. There is no test that removes the cartilage problem in folded cats.
Breed information is general guidance compiled by the PetHome team. Every animal is an individual — meet it, and its mother, before you commit. This is not veterinary advice.