With round eyes, round face, round whisker pads curving forward, and a round body, the Scottish fold has made her existence known all around the world. In fact, the internet sensation, Maru the cat, is a Scottish fold feline with straight ears. The forward-folded ears from an unusual natural mutation have always been the trademark of a true Scottish fold, although some could have straight ears. This is one of the smartest cat breeds that make amusing companions with their innate behaviour and skills. Hence, it entails tending to their needs in a different way.
Proper Nutrition for Scottish Folds
Just like with any other animal, feeding is the most important thing to keep them happy and healthy. Folds suffering from either malnourishment or obesity expose them closer to certain diseases and allergies. You should pay extra attention to feeding as once a Scottish fold becomes overweight, it may be hard to lose that weight.
Scottish fold’s diet guide:
- Increase meat.
Meat is necessary for a cat’s diet as it provides dietary fat and protein. Additionally, your Scottish fold may even like it. - Lessen carbohydrate intake.
Keep in mind that your Scottish feline’s digestive system is not designed to handle carbohydrates so well. As such, it is best to avoid or at least reduce the intake of carbohydrates. - Consider vegetables as supplemental nutrition.
Legumes, such as boiled green beans, carrots, and others, aid your feline’s growth and development. - Provide high-quality food.
Choose high-quality food over cheap brands to prevent any stomach upset. It can either be wet or dry food. A mixture of the two will make it even more edible. Be sure to make fresh water ready at all times in a bowl, which should be replaced twice a day. - Do not overdo on giving food treats.
Be keen on the choice of food treats. Most treats contain high salt, which is not good for your Scottish fold. In addition, think about the extra intake of calorie that may contribute to the increase in weight.
You may also like to read:
Grooming Scottish Folds
A Scottish fold kitten may not be in need of grooming until it reaches at least 4–5 months of age. They are likely to start shedding excessively at the age of 4–5 months, most especially with the long-haired variety.
- The shorthaired Scottish fold should be groomed using a steel comb, once or twice a week.
- The long-haired Scottish fold should be groomed three to four times a week. This is important to remove dead hairs and prevent mats and tangles.
Be gentle in having their ears cleaned. Check for any wax build-up or ear mites. If their ears are dirty, use a cotton ball or damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. If there are signs of swelling, wax build-up, odour, or pus, consider taking your Scottish fold feline for a vet visit.
Have a Regular Vet Check
It is always the best course of action to make routine check-ups and dental appointments for your Scottish folds. Whilst it is generally a sturdy breed, there are some health problems that are susceptible to Scottish folds:
- Osteochondrodysplasia (affecting the cat’s cartilage and bone development)
- Cardiomyopathy (a type of heart disease)
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
- Ear infections
- Arthritis
Keeping Scottish Folds Fit
Though these felines can be undemanding, remember that they are intelligent and playful. A Scottish fold should not be left alone and bored sitting all day at your house. This feline is highly trainable, such as walking on a leash, tricks, and cat agility training.
If you are a beginner in training, that is completely fine. Start with the simplest of all, which is the leash training. Choose a comfortable collar or halter according to the size of your feline. Make sure that your feline is used to the collar on its neck before attaching a leash. Do not forget to prepare treats on your hand to reward her for a job well done once she accomplished the task.
Consider providing her with toys that will mentally and physically challenge her capacity. Laser toys, teaser toys, puzzles, and other cat toys will suffice. There are many activities beneficial for her physical health that will surely entertain your Scottish feline as well. This includes:
- Running
- Rolling
- Fetching balls
Find Them a Companion
The Scottish fold thrives best with company. They have a calm and affectionate temperament that can fit well around people, children, and other animals. The good thing is that this breed is one of the dog-friendly cat breeds. It is important to consider getting an additional pet that will stay with your Scottish fold when everyone in the family is out. Consider having other pets to keep your Scottish fold some company. Check out pets for sale now!
