Scottish Fold health guide
Also known as: Fold, Highland Fold
About this breed
Scottish Folds owe their folded ears to a cartilage gene that unfortunately affects joints throughout the body, meaning every Fold develops some degree of joint disease. Recognising pain early and managing it well is the central task of caring for this breed.
Living in Macau's climate
Humid weather stiffens sore joints, so provide warm, dry resting places away from air-conditioning drafts. The folded ears also trap moisture and wax in Macau's humidity; check and clean them gently every week.
Common health conditions
Osteochondrodysplasia (Fold joint disease)
Signs: Stiff or short-stepping gait, reluctance to jump, thickened swollen tail base or hocks.
Prevention: Present in every Fold to some degree; lean weight, soft ramps and early pain relief keep cats comfortable, so report any stiffness promptly.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Signs: Usually silent; rapid breathing at rest is the key home warning.
Prevention: Heart check at every visit and ultrasound if a murmur appears.
Ear canal problems
Signs: Head shaking, odour or dark wax under the folded ear flap.
Prevention: Weekly gentle checks and cleaning only as we advise; folded canals hold moisture.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
Signs: Silent for years, then thirst and weight loss.
Prevention: Screening ultrasound or DNA test, plus yearly kidney values from age 7.
Daily care tips
- Watch how your Fold jumps and walks; subtle stiffness is pain until proven otherwise.
- Keep weight lean to spare the joints.
- Check the folded ears weekly for moisture and wax.
- Provide low-effort routes: steps to favourite perches and thick soft bedding.
Screening schedule
8 to 16 weeks
Vaccination course with joint and heart assessment.
1 to 6 years
Annual exam with gait watch, ear check and heart auscultation.
7 years and up
Twice-yearly senior checks with joint scoring and kidney blood work.
Book a breed-savvy check-up
Our vets see Scottish Fold patients every week and know exactly what to screen for. Call +853 6677 6611 or book online.
Book a check-upThis guide is general information for the breed as a whole and does not replace an examination of your individual pet. When in doubt, always call the clinic.
Reviewed by the Royal Veterinary Center veterinary team.