Cat breed comparison
British Shorthair vs Scottish Fold
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home. The British Shorthair tends to live about 2 years longer.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | British Shorthair | Scottish Fold |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Weight | 12 - 20 lbs | 5 - 11 lbs |
| Life span | 12 - 17 years years | 11 - 14 years years |
| Lap cat | Yes | No |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
| Affection | ||
| Energy | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Vocal | ||
| Needs company | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Health issues |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Health issues
The Scottish Fold tends to have more health issues than the British Shorthair.
Affection
The Scottish Fold is more affectionate than the British Shorthair.
Energy
The Scottish Fold has more energy than the British Shorthair.
Grooming needs
The British Shorthair needs more grooming than the Scottish Fold.
Shedding
The British Shorthair sheds more than the Scottish Fold.
Which to choose
British Shorthair or Scottish Fold?
Choose the British Shorthair if…
- You want a cat that tends to have fewer health issues
- You’d like a more independent cat (it is more independent)
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
Choose the Scottish Fold if…
- You want a cuddly cat (it is more affectionate)
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You want a cat that needs less grooming
- You want a cat that sheds less
Questions.
Is the British Shorthair or the Scottish Fold bigger, and which lives longer?
The British Shorthair tends to live about 2 years longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the British Shorthair or the Scottish Fold?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the British Shorthair or the Scottish Fold?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Scottish Fold sheds less than the British Shorthair. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
