From Quebec, Canada; developed from Exotic Shorthair x Scottish Fold crosses in the 1990s (PetlifeCA gives 1992; Wikipedia notes first exhibition in 1995 by Betty-Ann Yaxley).12
A medium, rounded cat with a short neck and legs, a sweet round face and small ears that fold forward with smooth tips. The dense, plush coat comes in short and long versions, giving the whole cat a teddy-bear look. Only some kittens in a litter develop folded ears; the others keep straight ears.123
The Foldex is a bright, happy, confident cat that enjoys attention and a cuddle but also keeps a bit of independence. It is not usually shy with visitors and settles well into family life.13
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate. Short bursts of lively play a few times a day, followed by long rests.3
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush at least weekly to spread skin oils and remove loose hair; longhaired cats need a few sessions a week. Bathe occasionally and keep teeth, eyes and the folded ears clean.13
Home where they are happiest
Adapts to most homes, including flats, when given toys and cosy resting spots.3
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, high-protein cat food in measured portions to keep it trim; a shallow or raised bowl can suit its flatter face.3
Company who they like around
Friendly with families, children and other pets when socialised, and enjoys being with its people.31
The story where it all began
Breeders in Quebec started crossing Exotic Shorthairs with Scottish Folds in the early 1990s to create a cuddly, teddy-bear-like cat with folded ears. The Canadian Cat Association granted the Foldex full Championship status in 2010, and it remains a mostly Canadian breed.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Only around half of the kittens in a Foldex litter end up with folded ears.1
2
Kittens are born with straight ears; any fold shows up at a few weeks old.3
3
The breed was deliberately designed to look like a teddy bear.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name 'Foldex' is a portmanteau of 'Fold' (from Scottish Fold) and 'Exotic' (from Exotic Shorthair), reflecting its crossbreed origin.4
Famous ones stars of the breed
Betty-Ann Yaxley First exhibited a Foldex in a cat show in 1995 in Quebec, helping launch the breed.4
Jeanne Barrette Promoted the Foldex and was instrumental in gaining Canadian Cat Association acceptance as an Experimental breed in 1998 and New Breed in 2006.5
I wake up and stretch my folded ears, then hop onto the bed to nudge my human’s nose. He grumbles and I purr louder. After breakfast, I bat a feather toy across the living room, then collapse in a sunbeam for a long nap. When visitors arrive, I trot over and rub their legs, then sit politely for chin scratches. Later, I help my human fold laundry by swatting at socks. At dusk, I curl on the window seat and watch snow fall. A perfect, happy day.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
CCA (Canadian Cat Association)
Full Championship status in 2010; not recognised by the major international registries1
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Foldex. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Cat-Friendly Pancakes
A simple, no-bake treat that is high in protein and low in fat, making it a suitable occasional reward for cats who gain weight easily.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water, no salt added
1/2 cup finely diced cooked chicken
1/2 cup pure sweet potato puree (no added sweeteners)
How
Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl.
Break the tuna into small bits with a fork.
Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
Slowly stir in the sweet potato puree until the mixture binds together, being careful not to make it too watery.
Shape the mixture into mini pancakes.
Serve to your cat as an occasional treat.
How much: Give small amounts occasionally, as treats should not exceed 10-15% of daily calorie allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Foldex, and at what times?
Feed your Foldex a complete, high-protein cat food in measured portions to keep it trim. A shallow or raised bowl can suit its flatter face. For exact amounts and timing, check the food label and ask your vet.3
What should a Foldex eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A complete, high-protein cat food is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. For a full list, check the ASPCA toxic foods guide and ask your vet.36
Does a Foldex need baths?
Bathe your Foldex only occasionally, such as when it is very dirty or sticky. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing weekly and keeping the ears clean instead. Always use a cat-safe shampoo and ask your vet for advice.137Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Foldex need brushing?
Brush your Foldex at least weekly to spread skin oils and remove loose hair. Longhaired Foldex cats need a few sessions a week. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every 7 days.13Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Foldex's claws, and how often?
Trim your Foldex's claws every 21 days as a starting plan, or every ten days to two weeks per general guidance. Go slowly, trimming no more than two claws per session at first. Ask your vet or a groomer to show you the safe technique.7Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Foldex need?
Your Foldex needs moderate activity: short bursts of lively play a few times a day, followed by long rests. Furry Diary's starting plan includes daily play. Provide toys and cosy resting spots to keep it happy.3Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Foldex's teeth and ears?
Keep your Foldex's teeth clean by brushing daily if possible, and at least every two days per Furry Diary's plan. Clean the folded ears gently to prevent issues. Ask your vet for the best dental and ear care routine.13Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Foldex live?
A Foldex typically lives between 12 and 15 years. With good care, regular vet check-ups, and a healthy diet, your cat can enjoy a long, happy life. Senior years usually start around age 11.3Pet Wiki plan
Is a Foldex good with children and other pets?
Yes, the Foldex is friendly with families, children, and other pets when properly socialised. It is a bright, confident cat that enjoys attention and settles well into family life. Always supervise early interactions.13
Can a Foldex be left alone?
The Foldex enjoys being with its people and keeps a bit of independence, so it can handle some time alone. Provide toys and cosy spots to keep it comfortable. For how long it can be left, ask your vet or a good breeder.13
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Scottish Fold
Exotic Shorthair
British Shorthair