Many pet lovers, wanting to have a plush kitten without fail, do not see much difference between the British and Scottish breeds. However, it is, and any person who understands felinology will confirm this. Of course, representatives of both breeds have a beautiful soft coat, expressive almost "cartoon" eyes and a calm character. But there are also characteristic differences that depend on the appearance and temperament of the animal. Let's try to figure them out.
Let's start with the origin of the breeds. The British appeared before the Scots by a hundred years, in the 19th century. In their appearance, British cats resemble plush toys, and have a peaceful and devoted character. It is believed that they served as the prototype for the famous Cheshire cat from the beloved fairy tale about Alice in Wonderland. Scottish cats were bred later, and the appearance of the first kitten can be called an accident - this happened as a result of a gene mutation of the auricle. The first such kitten appeared in the middle of the 20th century in the family of a Scottish farmer. Since then, the curved ears have become a distinctive feature of this breed. Often, even experts cannot immediately understand the difference between a British and Scottish cat, especially at an early age. After all, representatives of these breeds are very similar in appearance: both are plush, affectionate, with beautiful hair. But in the British, the auricles are distinguished by a straight shape, while in the Scot they can be both straight and curved. But these are not all the differences, there are also other features that are worth paying attention to.
Appearance of the British and Scots
Apart from the shape of the ears, these breeds are very similar, like relatives. But they do have distinctive features. For example, body structure. At first glance, the difference between the breeds is minimal, but if you need to find differences, then you should pay attention to the appearance of the animals. What is the specific difference?
- torso. The British have a more massive and rounded body - this is often called "fat". Whereas the Scots have a leaner and leaner body.
- Tail. This part of the body also has its own differences. The British cats have a slightly shorter and thicker tail, while the Scottish counterparts have a slightly longer, more flexible and thinner tail.
- Paws. Both have massive limbs, with dense round pads. Only the British paws are thicker and shorter, while the Scots are thinner and longer.
- Head. British cats have pronounced cheekbones, so their head looks massive. Whereas in Scottish cats it is more miniature from birth.
- Eyes. Both breeds have the same eye shape, large and round. But due to the curved ears of the Scots, the eyes look more open, which gives them a “cartoonishness”.
- Ears. We have already talked about them, this is the most distinctive feature between the breeds. If the British only have straight ears, then the Scots can have both straight and curved ones.
The character and temperament of the British and Scots
An important role is played by the temperament of these beautiful animals. If you observe their behavior, then the difference between Scottish and British cats and cats is noticeable. And to choose one or another pet follows from individual preferences. 
The Scots are more calm, affectionate and peaceful. They love to be among people, and feel very comfortable even when a crowd of guests comes. These cute creatures easily adapt to a new home, never show aggression and love to be in the company of children. The Scots have such a quiet and meek disposition that it is very difficult to unbalance them. Even if something annoys them, they will simply quietly go to some secluded corner, where they will rest in peace.
As for the British, they are more independent, often show their obstinate character and are distinguished by their activity and lively temperament. Unlike the Scots, they can easily be alone, doing well without the company of the owner. And if you are often at home and want a pet that will sit faithfully and for a long time on your lap, then the Scottish breed is more suitable for you. If you are a busy person and are rarely at home, feel free to start an independent Briton.
Care for British and Scottish cats and cats
Fold-eared cats and cats of the Scots and British do not require special care. If necessary, you need to bathe them no more than once every one and a half to two months, and also regularly comb out the hair with a special brush with curved ends (sold in any pet store). A big plus of both breeds is that they do not shed much, so there will be no special problems with this nuance. Close attention should be paid to the ears, especially the lop-eared ones: wipe the inside of the shell with a soapy or alcohol solution - this will protect your pet from harmful insects.
