The Importance of DNA Testing in Scottish Fold Breeding
Breeding Scottish Fold cats responsibly means going far beyond appearances. One of the most crucial steps in ethical breeding is DNA testing. It’s not just about ensuring pedigree—DNA testing helps safeguard the health of future generations and protects the reputation of breeders who care.
Why DNA Testing Matters in Scottish Fold Breeding?
1. Detecting Genetic Disorders Early
Scottish Fold cats are known for their distinctive folded ears, caused by a dominant mutation in the FD gene. However, when two folds are bred together (Fold x Fold), the risk of painful skeletal disorders like Osteochondrodysplasia (OCD) increases significantly.
DNA testing allows breeders to confirm that one parent is Fold and the other is Straight to avoid these issues.
2. Preventing Hereditary Diseases
DNA tests can screen for common genetic conditions such as:
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Blood type incompatibility (important when queens can’t nurse)
By testing both parents, breeders avoid passing on these issues to kittens.
3. Verifying Blood Type (Especially for Breeding Queens)
Scottish Folds may carry Type B blood, and mating a Type B queen with a Type A tom without precautions can lead to Neonatal Isoerythrolysis—a fatal condition in kittens. DNA testing confirms blood type before breeding, so appropriate steps can be taken (like colostrum replacement).
4. Maintaining a Healthy Breeding Program
DNA results provide transparency to buyers and help breeders make informed decisions about which lines to continue, retire, or outcross.
At PurrfectlyFold, I use Optimal Selection Wisdom Panel to DNA test all of my breeding cats. As of 2025, each test costs around $80 -$100 and includes:
Screening for 45+ genetic health conditions
Testing for 25+ physical traits, including coat color and patterns
Identification of blood type
A genetic consultation if any 'at risk' health findings are detected
We provide a copy of the DNA results to every future kitten parent. This ensures transparency and confidence in the health and genetic background of your new Scottish Fold companion.
Preventing Fold-to-Fold Breeding Through Early Alteration
To further protect the integrity and health of the Scottish Fold breed, we also practice early spay and neuter before our kittens go to their new homes. This is a vital step in preventing unauthorized breeding, especially the dangerous practice of Fold-to-Fold pairings, which can result in severe skeletal deformities and lifelong pain. By placing only altered kittens, we help discourage backyard breeding and ensure that each kitten from PurrfectlyFold is a cherished companion—not part of an unregulated breeding program.
If you’re interested in bringing a Scottish Fold kitten into your home, be sure to visit our Available Kittens page to see who’s ready for their forever family. We take great pride in transparency and care, which is why we provide a detailed health guarantee with every kitten. Getting familiar with our health policies will give you peace of mind knowing your new companion comes from a loving, responsible breeder dedicated to their well-being.