RAISING AWARENESS

Many people will not realise the severe health problems endured by Scottish Folds and just how miserable life can be for them, which is why International Cat Care is working hard to raise awareness and urging cat lovers not to purchase this breed.We know that cats are brilliant at hiding pain and so it may not be obvious to owners.They may sit around more because it is painful to move and because they do not cry or limp, we think they are fine. Often owners have purchased kittens without realising that the cute look (and no doubt it is very cute) may be accompanied by pain — it is worth talking to the vet to ascertain if there is pain and what can be done to help the cat.

International Cat Care is encouraging owners and breeders to become ambassadors for feline welfare by speaking out against detrimental breeding. As cat lovers, we need to press for responsible buying and responsible breeding, and urge people not to buy or breed these cats with poor health and welfare. A cat’s welfare should always be the most important consideration.

By decreasing the demand for Scottish Folds, the aim is to reduce the number bred as a starting point, hence our delight at the new law in Belgium.The evidence from scientific studies and veterinary experts is undeniable: many, if not most, Scottish Fold cats are indeed suffering.