Cat breed · Shorthair
Scottish Fold
Calm, sweet, adaptable
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–6 kg (7–13 lb)
- Height
- 20–25 cm (8–10 in)
- Life span
- 11–14 years
- Origin
- Scotland
The coat
Short · Tabby
Stroke it to see how it lies.
At a glance
Are Scottish Folds right for you?
You will love
- Gentle and patient with children
- Usually gets on with other pets
- Copes well in a flat
- Content with modest exercise
- Quiet
Be ready for
- Several inherited health problems — choose a breeder who screens
How big, really
Adult Scottish Folds weigh 3–6 kg (7–13 lb). Shoulder height shown at the top of the range.
About the Scottish Fold
The folded ears that give the Scottish Fold its owl-like look come from a gene that affects cartilage throughout the body. Research shows that all folded cats are affected to some degree by osteochondrodysplasia, a painful joint and bone disease, and many develop arthritis young. Several veterinary bodies discourage breeding them, and breeding folds is restricted in some countries.
Folds themselves are usually calm, gentle and affectionate. If you already share your home with one, watch for signs of pain, which cats hide well: less jumping, a stiff walk or a stiff tail. Pain relief can make a big difference.
Health to know about
- Osteochondrodysplasia — the gene that folds the ears affects cartilage and bone throughout the body
- Painful arthritis, often from a young age
- Stiff, shortened tails
- Polycystic kidney disease in some lines
- Heart disease (HCM)
Care in short
- Watch for reluctance to jump, stiffness or a short, stiff tail
- Regular vet checks for joint pain
- Low-sided litter trays and steps
- Keep lean
Kit for a Scottish Fold
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Best for short coats
Rubber grooming mitt
4.3Soft rubber nubs pick up loose hair and double as a massage.
- Works wet or dry
- Most pets enjoy it
Best for saving the sofa
Sisal scratching post, 80 cm
4.6Tall and heavy enough for a full stretch without wobbling.
- Sisal rope cats prefer
- Wide weighted base
Best for indoor cats
Multi-level cat tree
4.4Climbing, perching and hiding in one piece of furniture.
- Several perches
- Replaceable posts
Similar breeds
| Trait | Scottish Fold | Exotic ShorthairCompare |  BirmanCompare |
 British ShorthairCompare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 3–6 kg (7–13 lb) | 3–6 kg (7–13 lb) | 3–7 kg (7–15 lb) | 4–8 kg (9–18 lb) |
| Energy | 2/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Shedding | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Grooming needs | 2/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 1/5 |
| Trainability | 3/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 |
Questions owners ask
How big does a Scottish Fold get?
Adults usually weigh 3–6 kg (7–13 lb) and stand 20–25 cm (8–10 in) tall.
How long do Scottish Folds live?
Typically 11–14 years.
Are Scottish Folds good with children?
Generally very good (4 out of 5 on our scale). Every dog or cat is an individual; always supervise young children.
Do Scottish Folds shed?
A moderate amount, more in spring and autumn.
What health problems are Scottish Folds prone to?
Osteochondrodysplasia — the gene that folds the ears affects cartilage and bone throughout the body; Painful arthritis, often from a young age; Stiff, shortened tails; Polycystic kidney disease in some lines; Heart disease (HCM).
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts