Compare breeds
Birman vs Scottish Fold
Birman
Long
Scottish Fold
Short
Choose the Birman if you want…
Much the same on our scales — meet both and see which personality suits you.
Choose the Scottish Fold if you want…
- less time spent grooming
- a quieter companion
Side by side
| Trait | Birman | Scottish Fold |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Weight | 3–7 kg (7–15 lb) | 3–6 kg (7–13 lb) |
| Height | 20–30 cm (8–12 in) | 20–25 cm (8–10 in) |
| Life span | 12–16 years | 11–14 years |
| Origin | Burma (developed in France) | Scotland |
| Energy | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Trainability | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Suits a flat | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Shedding | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Grooming needs | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 2/5 | 1/5 |
Quick answers
Which lives longer, the Birman or the Scottish Fold?
The Birman, on average. Birman: 12–16 years; Scottish Fold: 11–14 years.
Is the Birman or the Scottish Fold better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
Other comparisons
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