If you’re looking for a unique and adorable cat breed, the long haired Scottish Fold cat, also known as the Highland Fold might be the perfect fit for your family. Originating from Scotland (shock, horror), these endearing cats are known for their distinct folded ears, giving them a charming appearance that’s sure to win your heart.
Aside from their captivating looks, Scottish Folds are also low-maintenance, affectionate, and playful, making them ideal companions for people of all ages. Whether you have children or simply crave a loving feline friend, this breed’s friendly and gentle nature is the perfect addition to any home.
Longhaired Scottish Folds come in a wide range of colors and patterns, and their large, round eyes make their expressions all the more enchanting. Rest assured, adopting a Scottish Fold cat will bring endless joy and entertainment while becoming an inseparable part of your family.
Scottish Fold Cat Characteristics
Physical Appearance
Scottish Folds are known for their unique folded ears and round facial features. With a medium-sized, well-padded body and bushy medium-long tail, this breed is truly eye-catching.
Whether your Scottish Fold has a short or a medium-length coat, it can come in any color or pattern. Its circular, large eyes, short snout and rounded face with flat ears give it an adorable appearance that will surely melt your heart.
Temperament
These cats are known for their friendly and social nature. They enjoy spending time with their owners, forming strong bonds and adapting well to family life.
Scottish Fold cats are playful and intelligent, while also possessing a relaxed and gentle demeanor. With a usually affectionate and good-natured attitude, they make for great companions.
Health Issues
Keep in mind that the unique folded ears of the Scottish Fold breed can lead to some ear-related health concerns. This breed can be prone to ear infections, so it’s crucial to monitor and clean their ears regularly.
Scottish Fold cats are also known to suffer from a genetic bone disorder called osteochondrodysplasia, which affects the growth and development of the bones in their spine, legs, and tail.
This condition is linked to the gene that causes their distinctive folded ears and can cause painful degenerative joint disease, lameness, and abnormal posture and gait.
Other genetic disorders that can affect Scottish Fold cats include polycystic kidney disease (PKD), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
History of the Breed
In 1961, a Scottish shepherd William Ross discovered a unique kitten with folded ears on a farm near Coupar Angus in Perthshire, Scotland. This white barn cat, named Susie, became the original Scottish Fold.
When Susie had a litter of kittens, Ross adopted one and began developing the breed from there.
Your short and long-haired Scottish Fold has a fascinating lineage that traces back to Susie. This breed is known for its friendly and affectionate nature, as well as its folded ears and long, luxurious coat.
The Scottish Fold, as its name suggests, is characterized by the combination of its Scottish origin and the distinctive folding of its ears. This is what makes this breed truly unique among other cat breeds.
Over time, dedicated breeders have helped to establish and maintain the breed standard for the Scottish Fold. It is now a well-loved and popular choice among cat enthusiasts around the world.
As the owner of a Highland Fold, you can take pride in knowing that your cat is part of a fascinating and unique breed with an interesting history.
Caring for Highland Fold Cats
Grooming
Keep your Highland Fold coat healthy by brushing it regularly, which helps prevent matting and tangles. If you find any mats, remove them carefully with a brush or scissors, holding the hair with your fingers from the roots up and using caution to avoid cutting the skin.
Maintain cleanliness in your cat’s ears by checking and cleaning them regularly. Long-haired Scottish Folds might need some extra grooming around their rear ends and fur, so pay close attention to these areas.
Feeding
Managing your Scottish Folds nutrition is critical, as they tend to be rounder and less active compared to other breeds, making them prone to obesity. Be mindful of their diet and portion sizes, and be sure to use a cat food specifically developed for indoor cats such as the IAMS Proactive Health brand which as well as controlling weight control also helps to keep hair balls to a minimum.
Exercise and Play
Although Scottish Folds may not be as active as other breeds, they still require exercise and mental stimulation. Make time for interactive play with toys and games that encourage movement and engagement, which helps keep them healthy and happy. A cat exercise wheel will not only entertain your cat but help to keep her weight under control.
Do Long Haired Scottish Fold Cats Make Good Indoor Cats?
Indeed, both Longhair Folds and shorthair are excellent choices for an indoor cat. Their affectionate and easygoing nature makes them a perfect pet for families and individuals alike.
This breed is known for its adaptability to indoor living and compatibility with children and other animals. So, you can expect harmony in your home with any Scottish Fold around as long as you keep your indoor cat happy and healthy.
Are Long haired Scottish Fold cats Hypoallergenic?
Unfortunately, the Long Haired Scottish Fold cat is not considered hypoallergenic. However, their longer coats don’t shed as much as some other breeds, which can be a plus for those with mild allergies.
To minimize allergens, ensure that you groom your cat regularly, especially with twice-weekly brushings. This will help keep their coat in top shape and keep your home free from excessive fur.
Traits That Make them a Good Indoor Cat
Scottish Fold longhair cars are social and love spending time with their human companions. They’re also intelligent, so they appreciate interactive play and mental stimulation.
Despite their playful nature, they are generally low-energy, making them well-suited to indoor living. So, you can enjoy their affectionate company and know that they’re content staying within the safety of your home.
Adopting a Long Haired Scottish Fold Cat
Finding reputable breeders
To find a reputable breeder of long haired Scottish Fold cats, start by browsing specialized websites and online directories dedicated to the breed.
Ensure that the breeder you choose follows ethical breeding practices and provides health guarantees for their cats, such as testing for genetic disorders common in Scottish Folds.
Rescue Organizations
If you prefer to adopt a Scottish Fold cat from a rescue organization, check websites like AdoptaPet.com for available cats in need of a loving home.
Rescue organizations often provide valuable information on each cat’s personality and background, making it easier for you to find the perfect feline companion.
FAQ
How much does a Scottish Fold longhair cost?
Expect to pay anything from $1500 to $2500 for a Highland Fold cat with the price dependent on age, the breeder etc.
What is the lifespan of a Scottish Fold cat?
Both the long and short hair Scottish Fold cat have a life expectancy of around 15 years when kept as an indoor cat.
What’s the difference between a short and long haired Scottish Fold cat?
They aren’t two different breeds and they have the same nature and traits, the only difference being the longer coat while the shorthair Fold has a short, dense coat that tends to stand on end.
Recap
In this article, you’ve learned valuable information about both the Scottish shorthairs and longhaired variety Fold cats. These adorable, low-maintenance cats have a lot of personality and makes a great pet for families with children.
Not only is the Scottish Fold affectionate and easy to love, it’s also comfortable with all members of its family. Remember to handle their tail gently, as some may develop stiffness and pain if mishandled.
The Highland Fold, has unique features like flattened ears, large circular eyes, and a round face. Their ears are capable of rotating and making motions similar to other cat breeds.
Be aware of the possible health issues associated with this breed, such as arthritis, spinal abnormalities, and thick, inflexible tails. Make sure to consult with a veterinarian for proper care and guidance.
Your long haired Scottish Fold cat will surely bring joy and companionship to your home with its charming presence and loving nature. Enjoy your time spent with this captivating cat breed.
