How were Scottish Fold cats bred? - briefly
The Scottish Fold cat breed originated from a spontaneous mutation in a barn cat named Susie, discovered by a shepherd in Perthshire, Scotland, in 1961. Breeders then selectively mated these cats to establish the distinctive folded ear trait that characterizes the breed today.
How were Scottish Fold cats bred? - in detail
The Scottish Fold cat breed is known for its unique ear shape, which folds forward and downward, giving it an owl-like appearance. This distinctive trait is the result of a genetic mutation that occurred naturally in a litter of barn cats in Perthshire, Scotland. The story of how these cats were bred begins with a shepherd named William Ross, who noticed a peculiar cat with folded ears among his flock in 1961. Intrigued by this unusual feature, he decided to crossbreed the cat with American Shorthairs and British Shorthairs, aiming to establish a new breed.
The genetic mutation responsible for the folded ear shape is an autosomal dominant trait, meaning that only one copy of the gene is needed for the characteristic to be expressed. This particular mutation affects cartilage development in the ears, causing them to fold downward. The gene was named Fd (folded ear) and has since been identified as a mutation in the fibroblast growth factor 3 (FGF3) gene.
The breeding process involved selecting cats with the folded ear trait and crossing them with other cats to create offspring that would inherit this distinctive feature. Over time, careful selection and breeding practices led to the development of a consistent line of Scottish Fold cats. The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) recognized the Scottish Fold as a championship breed in 1978, solidifying its status within the feline community.
It is important to note that while the folded ear trait is desirable, it also comes with potential health concerns. Some Scottish Fold cats may develop osteochondrodysplasia, a condition affecting bone and cartilage development, which can lead to issues such as malformed limbs or tail deformities. Responsible breeders prioritize the welfare of their cats and strive to minimize these risks through ethical breeding practices.
In summary, Scottish Fold cats were bred by selecting for a naturally occurring genetic mutation that causes the ears to fold downward. Through careful crossbreeding and selection, this distinctive trait was established as a consistent feature in the breed. Today, Scottish Folds are beloved for their unique appearance and playful personalities, making them a popular choice among cat enthusiasts worldwide.