Opinion on adopting a scottish fold? Health concerns?

[smollcat]

My local animal shelter recently got in a scottish fold that I fell in love with. He is under a year and super sweet. Since he is at a shelter, there is obviously no known history/parents/genetics/breeding info. I am reading online that scottish folds are prone to tons of health issues and severe osteochondrodysplasia. There is so much varying research it is hard to know what to trust. Do all folded ear cats get this disease? Is there anything to prevent it? How is it treated if diagnosed? Can they still live long, healthy lives? Or should I avoid it all together?

 

[SirMeow]

I don't know how prone they are to disease, unfortunately. However, he needs a loving furrever home just like any other cat and you get on well, so I think you should take him. Just be sure to take out good quality pet insurance for you.

Welcome to Feline Forums. Great username.

 

[KittyJ]

According to Universities Federation of Animal Welfare, all Scottish fold cats are born with osteochondrodysplasia and there's currently no treatment. Some cases are worse than others.

Seeing how his condition is something he has to live with, why not live a joyful life with an owner who loves him? I think that if you're willing and able to care for him, you should adopt him!

I agree with @SirMeow, pet insurance sounds like a good idea because even if there's no treatment for osteochondrodysplasia, there must be something your vet can do to make his life easier.

 

[SirMeow]

I didn't know about this defect, Kitty. It's cruel to breed animals of whatever species with known genetic defects just for the vanity of a particular characteristic to satisfy "cat fanciers".

Given this @smollcat, I think you should adopt this cat more than ever - but please don't let him breed.

Great username btw.

Scottish Fold disease – osteochondrodysplasia | International Cat Care

icatcare.org

 

[KittyJ]

Yes, it's very cruel and it's illegal to breed Scottish fold cats in most places. I just hate the fact that people still breed these cats, but the damage has already been done and this precious cat needs a home.

And yes, @smollcat, please get him neutered if he hasn't been already!

 

[kittymanel]

Don't worry, not all Scottish Fold cats will develop osteochondrodysplasia, but it is more common in them compared to other cat breeds. It is difficult to determine if a Scottish Fold cat will develop this condition without knowing its genetic history. There is no specific way to prevent the condition, but it is recommended to monitor the cat's diet and exercise to promote healthy growth.