It is known that the gray Scottish breed has long won the hearts of cat lovers. Cats, similar to plush toys with large amber eyes, will not leave anyone indifferent. Consider this well-known breed in more detail.
About the breed
Its first representatives were brought to Europe from China in the 18th century. As a result of crossbreeding with erect cats, a new species was bred: Scottish fold. In the 60s, felinologists officially registered it. There are 2 types of cats of this breed:
- scottish straight - cats with straight erect ears;
- scottish fold - fold cats.
These are medium sized animals with a muscular, solid body. The shoulders and hips of the beast are equal in width. The body is short, well developed. Extremities of medium length. The tail is thick. The head is round in shape.
The eyes are large and round, usually amber, yellow, emerald or blue. The ears of a fold cat are directed forward, the tips hang down. If the ears are upright, their size is small, the tips are rounded.
The coat is short, dense, reminiscent of plush. Gray color is called blue or blue. Color can vary from light gray to gray blue. In small kittens, patterns on the fur can be observed, which will disappear with age.
About temper
The Scottish cat has a companionable character, friendly and phlegmatic disposition. Curious and observant, cats do not like noise. Attached to the owners and to the house. New people are wary, but without malice. They can get along with other animals if they do not show aggression.
Despite the desire for people to communicate, cats are not tame. They do not like to sit on their hands, but this does not mean that they do not allow themselves to be ironed.They can accompany the owner and follow him everywhere, observe him, be overly persistent. Scottish cats and cats have a number of interesting habits:
- they often stand on their hind legs, mainly at the moment of interest, to consider something that reminds gophers very much;
- they like to lie on their backs, which looks very funny;
- some cats are observant, show interest in the TV;
- cats are “talkative,” they accompany their actions with different sounds, the voice is often creaky.
Scottish by nature is a companion cat. She does not like loneliness. Be sure to keep company when watching TV or at dinner.
A playful animal will take part in children's amusements if children treat it properly.
Health
As a result of crossing, the breed received a hereditary ailment: the gene responsible for lop-eared, badly affects the musculoskeletal system and cartilage. Cats are prone to joint diseases. Health is checked as follows: a healthy animal has a movable tail that bends well. If the tail bends poorly, is inactive, this may be a sign of osteochondrodysplasia, a hereditary disease of this breed.
Cats with a shortened head shape are prone to cardiomyopathy and brachycephalic syndrome: respiratory failure. Due to the structure of the muzzle, the eyes of cats are vulnerable. They often fester and watery.
For the prevention of the eye, it is necessary to rinse with a cotton pad moistened with water or tea decoction. Ear care is also required: once a week it is worth examining them and cleaning them with a swab moistened with oil.
Wool requires special attention. It is combed out 2-3 times a week with a comb with a large step. This is done in order to prevent the formation of mats: the hair of this breed of cats is thick and plush. Cats are unpretentious and do not require special care. Prevention of diseases with vaccination according to the schedule, deworming once a year and treatment with drops from external parasites will help maintain the health of the pet.
Diet
The diet of a cat deserves special attention. The food of the beast should be controlled so as not to disturb the digestive system. Some rules must be observed:
- bowls use plastic or ceramic;
- Bowls should be placed in a secluded place on an elevation (if the animal has to lean toward the bowl, it may start hiccups)
- mixed nutrition upsets the digestive tract, so you need to decide on the food: natural products or purchased food;
- if the food is purchased, it is advisable to stick to one manufacturer;
- pets are fed 2 times a day at the same time, they are not allowed to overeat;
- food should be balanced: both soft and hard are needed (rough food cleanses plaque, develops jaw muscles);
- the diet should contain dairy products, which are a source of calcium for the cat's body;
- to facilitate digestion, greens (fresh grass) are welcomed: it will help clear the stomach of the hair.
Choose a name
The name of the animal should reflect its nature, traits of character or appearance. Usually these are the main criteria. It is good if there are hissing sounds in the name: this will help the animal get used to its nickname faster. Her choice depends solely on the imagination of the owner. The name should be short and easy to pronounce: it will be more convenient for the owners and for the animal. There are a number of suitable nicknames for boys.
- You can call a cat a traditional cat name: Fluff, Plush, Iris, Bow, Busik.
- Sometimes an animal is called a human name. You can choose a noble name to match the pet: Leopold, Sylvester, Archibald.
- A purebred cat is suitable for the nickname Winston, Zorro, Raisins, Marquis.
There is a choice for girls:
- in appearance, you can give a touching nickname Night, Paw;
- the cat will remember cute words with hissing sounds: X, Christie;
- the beautiful name of Agrafen (Pear), Taisiya (Tasya) will do.
More information about the breed of Scottish fold cats you will learn from the following video.
