Yes, Scottish Fold cats have the defect achondroplasia, a genetic disorder characterized by skeletal deformities such as a short, thick, non-flexible tail and short splayed feet. The onset period ranges from 2 months to 6 months of age, but some cases begin after the age of 1 year. Cats that have been affected will be inactive at first, and then have difficulty moving.

Scottish Fold cats also have varying degrees of joint degenerative disease, which can lead to fusion of the tail, tarsus (ankle) and stifle (knee) joints. Clinical manifestations include reluctance to move, abnormal posture and gait, lameness, and short limb deformity. Affected cats exhibit lameness, reluctance to jump, stiffness, and a stilt gait. These walking difficulties are due to progressive osteoarthritis due to achondroplasia and dysfunction.

The gene causing bone disease in Scottish Fold cats not only affects the bones of the hands and feet, but also affects the abnormal development of cartilage tissue in other parts of the body. The more common problem is difficulty breathing due to stenosis of the respiratory tract. In severe cases, surgery is required to widen the respiratory tract. There is also the problem of nosebleeds, but the cause is currently unknown and there is no cure.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is also common in folded-eared cats, but it is generally difficult to detect until symptoms appear, which can be life-threatening. Cats need to control their diet and take lifelong medication.