Compare breeds
British Shorthair vs Scottish Fold
British Shorthair
Short
Scottish Fold
Short
Choose the British Shorthair if you want…
- less time spent grooming
Choose the Scottish Fold if you want…
- a dog or cat that learns quickly
Side by side
| Trait | British Shorthair | Scottish Fold |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Weight | 4–8 kg (9–18 lb) | 3–6 kg (7–13 lb) |
| Height | 30–36 cm (12–14 in) | 20–25 cm (8–10 in) |
| Life span | 12–17 years | 11–14 years |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Scotland |
| Energy | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Trainability | 2/5 | 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 | 1/5 | 2/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 1/5 | 1/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the British Shorthair or the Scottish Fold?
The British Shorthair — typically about 1.3 times the weight. British Shorthair: 4–8 kg (9–18 lb); Scottish Fold: 3–6 kg (7–13 lb).
Which lives longer, the British Shorthair or the Scottish Fold?
The British Shorthair, on average. British Shorthair: 12–17 years; Scottish Fold: 11–14 years.
Is the British Shorthair 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