What To Look For In A Scottish Fold Cat

Scottish Folds, affectionately called “Foldies” by their millions of avid followers, are available in many colour combinations. And of course, there are cats and kittens in this breed whose ears do not fold forward, but stand up, like a regular cat. Probably amongst the most popular colours are lavender, chocolate and what is referred to as the “Himalayan pattern”. There are also many colour combinations including pure white.

If you are considering adopting one of these adorable creatures, then there are certain things you should look out for. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice.

First, and most importantly in this breed, always check that the kitten or cat's tail is not unusually short, and is preferably tapered towards the end. The most important aspect to check is the flexibility of the tail. This may sound odd, but some Scottish Foldies suffered with a genetic defect that is a throwback to their early ancestors. A stiff tail can be the precursor for a series of bone related problems, which you definitely don't want for your beloved new companion.

With loving care and attention (which they adore), most Scottish Folds lead long and healthy lives. It is not unusual for this breed to live up to and even beyond the age of nineteen years. So heap piles of TLC (tender loving care) upon your Foldie and be prepared for it to be returned to you in continued love, affection and adoration over a long lifetime.

Another aspect of what to expect in Scottish Fold cats is the incredible choice of colours for this breed. Ranging from pure glistening white, with pink nose and paw pads, to the sumptuous Chinchilla Silver and many other colours in between.

One of the most unusual colours for Scottish Foldies is Golden Chinchilla. In this colour, the undercoat of fine soft fur is a rich warm cream colour. The coat on the backs, head, legs and tail may be slightly shaded with black on the tips of the fur, which gives an unusual and stunning golden appearance. With this colour, the ear tufts, stomach and chest are all that rich warm cream, and the skin rims of the lips, nose and eyes are outlined with black. These beauties usually have green or sometimes blue/green eyes, which are the preferred colour from the cat show judge's point of view.

Another quite incredible colour combination in Scottish Fold cats is what is termed 'Shell Cameo' or sometimes 'Red Chinchilla'. This beauty has a white soft undercoat, with the hair on the head, tail, back and legs to be coloured at the end of the hair to give an amazing sparkling appearance. The chin stomach, chest and tufts of ear fur should all be white. But by far the most outstanding feature of this superstar among Scottish Foldies is the eye colour. It is a brilliant sparkling gold.