Scottish Fold cats spark concern

A breed of cat reportedly first found in Perthshire has become popular with celebrity figures.

But interest in the Scottish Fold, which is said to have started out in Coupar Angus more than 50 years ago, has been sparking fears that its genetics could make fans take on more than they can handle.

Singers including Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift have been pictured with Scottish Folds, which have the characteristic of ears which fold forward.

The condition, caused by cartilage deficiencies, could extend to other parts of their body and may cause them to be lame, although not all Scottish Folds have the owllike ears and suffer problems.

Vets, the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) and other UK charities have expressed concern about the welfare of the animals. The species was also discussed on BBC Radio 4 recently.

SSPCA Superintendent Mike Flynn told The Times: ‘It is common for the breed to suffer from serious health problems.

“The cartilage and bones do not develop properly, which leads to arthritis and other painful joint diseases that can cause reluctance to move, abnormal posture and gait, lameness and short, misshapen limbs.

“We welcome any change to legislation to prevent the breeding and sale of Scottish Fold cats.”

The breed’s origin is said to be a farm near Coupar Angus where, in 1961, a shepherd spotted the unusual ears on a cat owned by a neighbour. It led to a breeding programme which has seen their number grow.