Why is the breed of cat called Scottish? - briefly
The breed is called Scottish due to its origin in Scotland, where it was first developed and recognized for its distinct folded ears.
Why is the breed of cat called Scottish? - in detail
The Scottish cat breed derives its name from its geographical origin, Scotland, where it was first discovered and developed. The breed’s most distinctive feature, the folded ears, originated from a natural genetic mutation observed in a farm cat named Susie in the Tayside region of Scotland during the 1960s. This unique ear structure, caused by a dominant gene affecting cartilage development, became the defining trait of the breed. Breeders recognized the potential of this mutation and began selectively breeding cats to preserve and enhance this characteristic. The breed was officially recognized and named the Scottish Fold to reflect both its place of origin and its most notable physical trait. Over time, the term "Scottish" became firmly associated with these cats, distinguishing them from other breeds and emphasizing their historical and genetic connection to Scotland. The breed’s popularity grew internationally, but its name has remained a testament to its Scottish roots and the serendipitous discovery that led to its creation.