Representatives of the Scottish Fold breed are distinguished by a special structure of the ears, which are shaped like a forward and downward-bent triangle. According to the standards, there are many variations in the shades of wool of Scottish Fold cats. This article will discuss the features of cats with red color.
History of origin
It is believed that the lop-eared cats were imported to European countries from China, where the breed was not widespread. This event occurred at the end of the XVIII century, although such cats appeared in the XVII century. In Northern Europe, work was carried out on the crossing of introduced animals with representatives of straight breeds, as a result of which the Scottish Fold cat was bred.
Officially, the breed was recognized in the late 60s of the XX century. There is another version of the appearance of Scottish Folds, in which it is said that even though lop-eared cats existed in China, they were not imported to Europe. A kitten-girl with the same extraordinary appearance was born on the territory of Scotland in the 60s, she became the main participant in breeding.
Description and color feature
One of the main features of this breed is the tips of the ears, slightly curved inwards. However, kittens are born with a normal erect auricle. Only after three months the appearance of the animal should change.
If the ears are straight, then the individual belongs to another species of the breed - Scottish Straight.
If you do not take into account the special form of the ears, the Scottish folds resemble the appearance of British shorthair cats. The body of the Scottish Fold cats is quite powerful. The front and hind legs are as muscular as the body. As for body size, according to international standards, it refers to the average.
The tail of cats is proportional to the body. Usually it is rounded and narrowed at the end. The wool of the Scottish Fold cats of small length and to the touch resembles a soft and smooth fur coat. The hairs are tight to each other.
The head of the animals has a round shape. Cats have rather powerful jaws and a strong chin. On the face of the animal there are no coarse features, and all the lines are smooth and rounded. Scottish Folds have large eyes that are also round and set wide apart. The cats nose is small and wide.
As for the colors, any palette options are allowed. Red color can also be called red or gold. The color of the iris in red cats comes in tone to the coat and can be bright orange, amber or copper. Cats of this color deserve love all over the world.
Popularity is primarily due to the unusual and spectacular appearance. It is worth noting that Scottish folds of this color are quite rare, which is why they are valued even more.
It is also believed that the redheads of this breed have the highest level of intelligence than cats of other colors.
Character and behavior
Scottish folds are distinguished by emotional balance and goodwill. Kittens quickly become attached to the person and the house. They are very playful and get along well with children. Animals enjoy sitting on their hands, love affection and attention.
Adults prefer to be at rest rather than lead an active lifestyle. It is easy to teach cats to claw, and therefore you can not worry about the safety of furniture in the house.The representatives of the Scottish Fold breed have characteristics in behavior.
Physiologically, such cats are quite easy to stand on the hind limbs for a long time. Usually they take this posture when they try to see something interesting ahead. Many representatives of the breed love to sleep on their backs, recalling such a sleeping posture.
However, it should be remembered that regardless of belonging to the breed, each cat is individual. Therefore, the pet may not match the nature and behavior of the general characteristics of Scottish Fold cats.
In the people there are some beliefs that the color of fluffy pets can say something about their character. Ginger cats are considered impudent and cunning. Such animals require greater attention and respect for themselves.
Maintenance and care
Scottish Fold cats love comfort and value home environment. They are not intended for living outside the home and will not be able to survive for long on the street. Such cats are quite friendly and can make friends with other animals that live in the house.
From a young age, kittens are taught to a tray, a nickname and a scraper. It is also necessary to bring up a pet so that it does not spoil the property and understand the simplest commands of the owner. As for the care of animals, it will not cause difficulties.
Usually the cats themselves monitor the condition of their wool, clean their eyes and ears, and also chew off the exfoliated part of the nails. However, this does not mean that the animals should not be followed at all. In the case of contamination of the ears, they must be carefully cleaned with cotton sticks.
Despite the fact that the wool in the "Scots" is rather short, it is recommended to periodically comb. To do this, it is better to use soft brushes or a special glove. Periodic combing will allow you to remove excess hairs that have not been licked by the cat.
Special attention should be paid to the pet's teeth. Many domestic cats over the age of three years have problems with the oral cavity. Most often this is due to improper feeding of the animal. With a small amount or the complete absence of solid food on the enamel tartar are formed.
To prevent problems with teeth, you need to choose the right diet for the animal. If necessary, clean the pet's mouth. This can be done with a special brush and paste.
Feeding
The nutrition of the red "Scots" should be balanced so that the animal receives daily ration of the necessary components for the body. Most of the diet, one way or another, make up proteins. You can create your own menu, which will include both ready-made food and natural products.
It is also allowed to feed only ready canned food and dry food. In the qualitative compositions of super-premium and holistic there will be all the necessary elements in the right quantity. The frequency of feeding depends on the age of the animal. Kittens are usually given food in small quantities and often from four to five times a day.
Over time, the frequency of feeding is reduced to three times a day, and after reaching the age of 8 months - to two. The amount of food depends on the lifestyle of the animal, namely its activity. At the same time access to clean and fresh water from the pet should be regularly.
As for natural products, it is recommended to include raw veal, previously frozen, in the diet. You can give boiled chicken meat and offal. Fish may be introduced into the lure only in small quantities. Otherwise, urinary system problems may occur.
Health
Like all domestic cats, red Scottish folds need timely vaccination, as well as treatment from ticks, fleas and worms. Representatives of this breed also have a predisposition to certain diseases:
- diseases of the musculoskeletal system - most often there are problems with the joints;
- problems with the cardiovascular system;
- respiratory diseases.
Special attention should be paid to the eyes of animals. Due to their large size, they can get a lot of dust or hairs, which, in turn, will provoke inflammation. In pet stores you can buy special eye drops and, if necessary, use them.
Many members of the breed are excessive in food, which can lead to obesity. Excess weight leads to health problems. Therefore, it is very important to monitor the proper nutrition of scottish folds. It is also recommended to regularly visit the veterinarian for inspection and examination of a pet.
As for the life span of Scottish Folds, several factors will affect this indicator at once. The first is the presence or absence of congenital diseases.
A physically weakened kitten will need special care and, most likely, will not live more than 15 years.
As for healthy and strong individuals, for the most part the lifespan will depend on proper nutrition and care. With proper maintenance, cats can calmly live to 20 years and even more.
On the features and care of Scottish cats, see below.