What is the name of a lop-eared cat? - briefly
The most common breed of cat with lop ears is the Scottish Fold. This distinctive feature is the result of a naturally occurring dominant gene mutation.
What is the name of a lop-eared cat? - in detail
The name commonly associated with a lop-eared cat is "Scottish Fold." This distinctive breed is renowned for its unique ear structure, which folds forward and downward, giving it an owl-like appearance. The Scottish Fold's ears are the result of a natural dominant genetic mutation that affects cartilage throughout the body, most notably in the ears.
The Scottish Fold breed originated in Scotland in 1961 when a shepherd named William Ross observed a white barn cat with unusual ears and decided to selectively breed it with American Shorthairs and British Shorthairs. The result was a charming cat with a sweet temperament and distinctive appearance, characterized by its large, round eyes, thick body, and, of course, its folded ears.
Despite their unique appearance, Scottish Fold cats are generally healthy and long-lived. They are known for being affectionate, gentle, and adaptable to various living environments. Their laid-back nature makes them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.