Side by side
Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.
Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.
| Breed |  Scottish Fold |  Birman |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Scotland | France, from cats of Burmese origin |
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Coat | Short | Semi-long |
| Weight | 3–6 kg | 3.5–6.5 kg |
| Lifespan | 11–14 yrs | 13–16 yrs |
| Energy | 5/10 | 4/10 |
| Affection | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Grooming needs | 4/10 | 5/10 |
| Vocality | 3/10 | 3/10 |
| Good with kids | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Good with pets | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Shedding | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Flat fit | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Editor score | 3.9 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Running cost | €88 / month | €82 / month |
Scottish Fold verdict
Folded ears, folded into your lap
Get one if
- · Quiet flats and gentle households
- · Owners committed to lifelong joint care
- · People considering a straight-eared sibling instead
Think again if
- · Anyone buying purely for the folded-ear look
- · Homes that cannot budget for arthritis care
- · Buyers unwilling to vet a breeder carefully
Birman verdict
Silk coat, white gloves, and the gentlest temperament in the long-haired class.
Get one if
- · You want a gentle, sociable cat that follows the household around
- · There are children or other pets
- · You can comb two or three times a week
Think again if
- · The home is empty all day and this would be the only cat
- · You want an athletic, high-energy cat
- · You are unwilling to comb at all