When was the Scottish Fold breed developed? - briefly
The Scottish Fold breed was developed in Scotland during the early 1960s by William Ross. This unique breed is characterized by its distinctive ears that fold forward and downwards.
When was the Scottish Fold breed developed? - in detail
The Scottish Fold breed of cats is renowned for its distinctive ears that fold forward and downward, giving them an owl-like appearance. This unique characteristic originated from a spontaneous genetic mutation in a single cat found on a farm near Perth, Scotland. The story of this breed's development begins with this particular cat, named Susie, who was discovered by Sheila Burns in 1961.
Susie's unusual ear structure caught the attention of breeders and enthusiasts alike, leading to efforts to replicate her distinctive features through selective breeding. The initial crosses involved pairing Susie with British Shorthairs and American Shorthairs, which helped establish the foundation for the Scottish Fold breed. These early attempts at breeding were conducted under the guidance of geneticists who aimed to understand and control the inheritance pattern of the folded ear trait.
The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) recognized the Scottish Fold as a distinct breed in 1978, marking a significant milestone in its development. However, it is important to note that the genetic basis for the folded ears is associated with a dominant gene that can also cause health issues, particularly osteochondrodysplasia, which affects bone and cartilage development. As a result, responsible breeders have been working towards minimizing these health risks while preserving the unique ear fold.
Over time, the Scottish Fold has gained popularity not only for its distinctive appearance but also for its temperament, known to be friendly, laid-back, and affectionate. The breed's development continues to evolve as breeders strive to maintain genetic diversity and improve overall health while preserving the iconic folded ear trait that defines this enchanting feline.