The Scottish Fold cat breed is one of the most recognizable feline breeds in the world, with its distinctive folded ears and round, owl-like eyes. In terms of physical characteristics, Scottish Folds are medium-sized cats with round, stocky bodies and short, sturdy legs. They have thick, plush fur that comes in a variety of colors and patterns, including black, white, blue, red, cream, and tortoiseshell. Their eyes are large, round, and expressive, with colors ranging from gold to green to blue.

But it's the Scottish Fold's distinctive ears that really set this breed apart. Rather than standing up straight like most cat ears, Scottish Fold ears are folded forward and down, giving the cat a unique and charming appearance. Not all Scottish Folds have folded ears, however; some cats are born with straight ears, and these cats are called Scottish Straights.

Scottish Folds are known for their sweet and gentle nature, making them excellent pets for families with children or other pets. They are also very intelligent and easily trained, making them ideal for those who want a cat that can learn tricks and obey commands. Scottish Folds are generally quiet and laid-back, preferring to curl up in a warm lap or a cozy bed rather than chasing after toys or climbing up furniture.

Despite their adorable appearance, Scottish Folds do have some health concerns that potential owners should be aware of. Because of their genetic mutation, they are prone to ear infections, and their folded ears can also cause problems with earwax buildup and hearing loss. Scottish Folds can also be prone to joint issues and osteoarthritis, so it's important to keep them at a healthy weight and provide them with plenty of exercise. If you're considering adding a Scottish Fold to your family, it's important to find a reputable breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed and takes good care of their cats. Scottish Folds can be expensive, so it's important to be prepared to invest in quality food, veterinary care, and other necessities.

All Scottish folds have one common ancestor: her name was Susie. This breed originated in Scotland in the 1960s, when a local shepherd noticed a cat with unusual folded ears on his farm. He took the cat to a local veterinarian, who determined that the cat had a genetic mutation that caused the cartilage in its ears to fold forward, giving it a unique appearance.

They're born with straight ears. The fold begins to develop within 18 to 24 days after birth, when the gene expresses itself. If the fold doesn't form, the cat is officially a Scottish Straight.

There are three degrees of folds: single, double, and triple. A single fold is a slight fold at the tips of the ears. A double fold ear means about half of the ear is bending downward. Triple fold ears are folded flat against the head, and make the head look rounder.