Scottish fold kitten

The Scottish Fold is a sweet, quiet cat with a round face and small, folded ears. Adults are medium sized, usually three to six kilograms. Most Folds enjoy company, follow their owners around the home and have a soft voice, which makes them a good fit for apartments. Some kittens are born with straight ears, so ask which type you are seeing.

The gene that gives the folded ears can be linked to cartilage and joint problems in some cats. Ask how the parents move and what the seller knows about their health, and before you buy, ask your vet. The coat is short or semi-long and needs brushing once or twice a week, and the ears need a gentle check for wax. Keep a Fold indoors in the UAE, with air conditioning and fresh water, and never leave it in a parked car.

See the kitten in person, and its mother if you buy from a breeder. Check the vaccination card and ask for pedigree papers if one is promised. The cat should be microchipped, have its rabies and core vaccinations and be registered with your municipality or emirate. On AnimalMarket24, asking prices have mostly been between AED 2,500 and AED 3,500. Adoption is also an option, and adoption fees should be modest.