Before adopting Scottish Fold

A popular breed with charming folded ears and a round face, calm and affectionate in nature. Understanding osteochondrodysplasia related to folded ears and selecting breeders who prioritize health-conscious breeding is especially important.

解説用イラスト: Scottish Fold — AI-generated illustration for explanation. Not an actual listed individual.

What to check before adopting

Understanding osteochondrodysplasia.
High
The genetic characteristics of cartilage that produce folded ears are known to be associated with osteochondrodysplasia, which affects joints and bones. Matings between two folded-eared cats are known to easily lead to severe symptoms and should be avoided. Verify the parent cat's breeding methods and health information. If you observe concerns regarding gait or joint mobility, consult a veterinarian.
Verify mating methods.
High
Verify that the breeder does not mate two folded-eared cats and conducts health-conscious breeding. Breeding with upright-eared parents and prioritizing health is important.
Temperament and compatibility.
Medium
They tend to be calm and enjoy spending time with people. Verify that you can provide a quiet indoor environment and commit to ongoing care.
Checking for predisposed health conditions
Medium
Polycystic kidney disease and similar conditions are known. Verify the parent cat's health information and whether genetic testing has been performed. If you notice concerning symptoms, consult an animal hospital.

Key points to check

Verify joints and gait.

Good:: Walks smoothly on all four limbs and does not excessively avoid jumping or movement.
Caution:: If the paws or tail are stiff, the gait is awkward, or the cat avoids movement, osteochondrodysplasia may be present; consult a veterinarian.

Verify parent cat and mating methods.

Good:: Does not mate two folded-eared cats and discloses the parent cat's health information.
Caution:: If the breeder cannot explain the mating method or conducts matings between two folded-eared cats, this is a sign of inadequate consideration for future health risks.

Verify temperament and health condition.

Good:: Accustomed to people, calm, moving actively, and has a good appetite.
Caution:: Lack of movement or poor appetite is a sign to check their health condition.