Scottish Folds are both the long and shorthair varieties. They have dense, plush coats and lightly shed year round with heavier shedding periods during the spring and fall. Brush shorthaired Folds weekly to remove loose hair. Longhaired Folds may require a comb through several times a week, those with less undercoat may require less. Monthly bathing helps remove loose hair and keep their coats clean.

Scottish Folds tend to be good eaters and are not as active as other breeds. Special care should be taken with their nutrition to prevent them from becoming overweight. As with all cats, Folds are obligate carnivores and require a good quality meat protein-rich diet. As with all cats, it is important to give your cat fresh, clean water daily. Fresh, clean water is best, so cats don’t hesitate to drink. If you worry about your cat drinking enough water each day, here's a tip from cat behaviorists - place the water bowl at least three feet away from any food. Cats’ noses are sensitive and an overwhelming smell of food may cause them to drink less. Folds love to drink from running water so consider a filtered drinking fountain to use in place of a water bowl.

The ears of a Scottish Fold do not make them more susceptible to ear infections than any other breed. They do, however have a form of degenerative joint disease caused by the same thing that causes the ear to fold. This can show up particularly in their tail, ankles, and feet. It can increase over time, but is recommended to always play gently with their tail. They should be taken to the veterinarian immediately to check for arthritis if any stiffness is noticed or if they appear to be in pain when their tail is manipulated. Folds also should be checked for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and polycystic kidney disease. It is important to always buy your Fold/Straight from a responsible breeder who does careful breed planning to help reduce joint issues and does veterinary screening and genetic testing to insure healthy, happy kittens.