Glossary
Folded ears
Ears that bend forward and down because of a gene that also affects cartilage throughout the body, as in the Scottish Fold.
Also called: fold ears, lop ears, Scottish Fold ears
Folded ears bend forward and down along the head, giving the face a round, owl-like look. The trait is linked to a dominant gene found in the Scottish Fold and in cats bred from it. The first known fold was a kitten born in Scotland in the early 1960s, and the line developed from there.
The same gene affects cartilage in other parts of the body, and a fold cat can develop a painful condition called osteochondrodysplasia, which changes the joints in the legs, feet and tail. It is a recognised welfare concern. Because of it, some countries and registries refuse to register folds or restrict breeding, and veterinary groups have asked breeders to consider the risk. Cats with two copies of the gene tend to be affected most severely. Breeders who outcross to straight-eared cats aim to reduce problems, but any fold can be affected.
If you are thinking of a fold, ask a vet about the signs of joint pain, such as stiffness, reluctance to jump, and a thick, inflexible tail, and ask the breeder what screening is done. Folded ears can also be prone to wax build-up, so check them regularly. Many people choose a straight-eared Scottish Shorthair instead.
Last reviewed November 7, 2026