The dark side of cute designer cats like Taylor Swift’s Scottish Fold
Cats like Scottish Folds that are bred for specific traits can struggle with a range of health problems their whole lives, experts say
Cute cats have become social media stars as of late, with many people – celebrities included – showing off their felines with photos and videos that have received millions of hits.
Pop queen Taylor Swift’s round-headed, big-eyed cat, a Scottish Fold, is a celebrity in its own right, and model and actress Claudia Schiffer brought her own Scottish Fold to the premiere of a film – which also featured the feline.
There is, however, a darker side to this trend.
Animals bred for specific traits, like big eyes, a flat nose or unique coat colours, can struggle with health problems for their entire lives. Some may have difficulty breathing or other physical problems.
