Scottish Fold

By 1000 Ventures · Last reviewed

A round-faced cat with ears that fold forward, giving it an owl-like look.

A Scottish Fold cat sitting, full body
Size
Medium
Weight
6 to 13 lb (2.7 to 6 kg)
Lifespan
11 to 15 years
Coat
Short or long
Colors
All colors and patterns
Origin
Scotland, from a folded-eared barn cat found in 1961
98% of the time, our scanner puts a Scottish Fold in its top three. It names it first 95% of the time. How we tested

What does a Scottish Fold look like?

The Scottish Fold's ears fold forward and down, lying close to a very round head. Kittens are born with straight ears that fold at around three to four weeks, and some never fold. Big round eyes and a rounded body complete the owl look. Straight-eared siblings are called Scottish Straights.

Scottish Fold personality

Folds are calm, sweet and adaptable. Many sit in odd positions, like on their back or upright like an otter.

How to care for a Scottish Fold

The fold gene affects cartilage throughout the body and can cause painful joint disease. Watch for stiffness and see a vet if your Fold avoids jumping. Some registries refuse to register the breed for this reason.

How do I know if my cat is a Scottish Fold?

Ears folded forward are unique to the Scottish Fold. Curled-back ears point to an American Curl. A round gray cat with straight ears could be a British Shorthair or a Scottish Straight.

A photo can only tell you what your cat looks like. Pedigree papers from a breeder, or a cat DNA test, are the only ways to prove a breed. For a quick first answer, upload a photo to our free cat breed identifier. It compares your cat with 31 breeds and the ordinary house cat and shows the three closest matches.

Curious which breed your own cat looks like? Upload one photo to the free cat breed identifier and see the three closest matches in seconds.

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Breeds that look like the Scottish Fold

British Shorthair British ShorthairA round, calm cat with chubby cheeks, copper eyes and a thick, plush coat. American Curl American CurlA friendly, medium-sized cat whose ears curl backward in a smooth arc. Exotic Shorthair Exotic ShorthairA Persian in a short, plush coat: flat face, round eyes and a teddy-bear look.

Or browse all 31 cat breeds side by side.

Frequently asked questions

Are Scottish Folds healthy?
The gene that folds the ears also affects cartilage and bones, and many Folds develop joint problems. Ask your vet about pain management.
Are all Scottish Fold kittens folded?
No. Many kittens in a litter keep straight ears and are called Scottish Straights.

What breed is your cat?

Upload one photo and the free cat breed identifier shows the three closest breeds in seconds, or tells you it is a classic house cat.

Identify my cat