White Scottish Fold: Pictures, Facts, Origin & History
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There are many colors of Scottish Folds, but the white one tends to stand out from the crowd. They are bright, beautiful, and spunky (though all varieties of this breed are!). There’s certainly something special about the way that White Scottish Folds look because many people are interested in them! Here is an overview of the White Scottish Fold that should tell you everything that you need to know.
Breed Overview
| Height: | 8–10 inches |
| Weight: | 6–13 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 14–16 years |
| Colors: | Pretty much any possible color, including white, blue, black, cream, red, lilac, chocolate, cinnamon, and fawn |
| Suitable for: | Any loving family that will handle the Scottish Fold gently and respectfully |
| Temperament: | Docile, quiet, sweet-natured, very people-oriented |
White Scottish Fold Characteristics
The Earliest Records of White Scottish Folds in History
The first Scottish Fold known to exist was a cat named Susie that lived on a farm in 1961. A neighbor took note of Susie’s folded ears, so when she had kittens, he asked the owner for one and he named the kitten Snooks. He then bred his cat to create what we call the Scottish Fold breed today.
Unfortunately, a British geneticist reported that a third of Scottish Fold cats develop a condition called osteodystrophy, so their breeding came to a stop in Great Britain. However, breeders in the United States work hard to make sure their kittens are born without the gene that results in osteodystrophy, though they still carry the mutation that makes their ears fold over. The Scottish Fold, including white-colored ones, are most popular in the United States.
How the White Scottish Fold Gained Popularity
In general, the Scottish Fold was popular from the start. People loved their folded ears and independent yet gentle dispositions. Scottish Folds can have many different colored coats, such as blue, red, black, cream, or white. White Scottish Folds are popular because they stand out from the darker-colored cats, but they’re not necessarily the most popular.
Formal Recognition of the Scottish Fold
When the Scottish Fold was banned in Great Britain, the original breeder moved to North America, where breeding could be taken up again. Before long, many breeders were in the Scottish Fold game. All American cat now organizations recognize this breed, including the Cat Fancier’s Association and the American Cat Association.
Top 4 Unique Facts About the White Scottish Fold
1. They All Have Genetic Mutations
Every Scottish Fold, no matter their color, has a genetic mutation that makes their ears fold over. This mutation happens before a dominant gene has developed. The mutation affects this breed’s cartilage composition, which is why their ears fold over.
2. They Are Born With Straight Ears
Scottish Folds are not born with folded ears! It takes a few weeks (usually 2 to 4) for the folds to develop. Sometimes, a Scottish Fold’s ears may not fold at all. Only cats with completely folded ears are acknowledged by the Cat Fancier’s Association and other organizations, so they aren’t as popular as kitties with folded ears. They still have the great personality and temperament that Scottish Folds with folded ears have, though!
3. They Aren’t Just White
While many Scottish Folds are born with white coats, other colors include blue, black, grey, red, and cream.
4. The First Known Scottish Fold Was White
Susie, the first known Scottish Fold, had a white coat. That means all White Scottish Folds are unique because they mimic the look of their original ancestor! Most owners today don’t know that their White Scottish Folds have a special connection with Susie.
Does the White Scottish Fold Make a Good Pet?
White Scottish Folds are independent, loyal, loving cats that enjoy spending time with their human family members. Most owners refer to their Scottish Folds as sweet cats that can be charming when they want to be. This is an easy-going cat breed that tends to get along well with children, even the young ones. The average Scottish Fold does not like spending time alone, so they are best for households where someone is around the house most of the time.
Conclusion
The White Scottish Fold is a fun-loving cat that makes a great pet for families of all types, whether in a house or apartment setting. This breed is special in many ways, but it’s important not to forget about all the cats in need that are available at your local rescue organizations and cat shelters when deciding whether to buy a specific breed.
Featured Photo Credit: Oleksandr Volchanskyi, Shutterstock
