Russian Blue vs Scottish Fold

Verdict

Both are quiet, short-coated and ideal for a small flat. The thing that decides it is sociability and health risk. The Scottish Fold is more tolerant of children and other pets, but its folded ears are linked to a painful bone and cartilage disorder, and some places restrict breeding it. The Russian Blue is shy with strangers, more independent and cleverer. Choose the Russian Blue for a calm routine. Choose the Scottish Fold only after weighing that welfare debate with your vet.

Choose the Russian Blue if

• You are out for a workday; it scores 4 for independence against 3.
• You want the cleverer cat, scoring 5 for intelligence against 3.
• You want a solid blue-grey plush coat with silver-tipped hairs.
• You want a cat with no listed breed-specific health concerns, though your vet should still check it.

Choose the Scottish Fold if

• You have children or other pets; it scores 4 for both against 3.
• You want a round-faced cat in nearly any colour, with or without white.
• You want a slightly more talkative cat; it scores 2 for voice against 1.
• You will follow strict breeding and vet advice, and live where breeding is allowed.

Where they are alike

Both score 5 for apartments and 2 for grooming, and neither scores above 3 for energy. Each is a medium cat that does well indoors with a steady routine.