The Coupari is kind toward others and will get along well with children or other pets.
About the Coupari Cat Breed
Although it is referred to by various names, including Longhair and Highland Fold, Coupari was the name given to the long-haired version of the Scottish Fold by British breeders. Its large eyes and folded ears make this affectionate cat a wonderful pet for both children and adults.
Coupari Physical Characteristics
The appearance of this medium-sized cat has been compared to a wise owl: large, rounded eyes, sweet expression, full cheeks, and a short nose. Its most remarkable feature, however, is its folded ears, which do not fold forward until the cat is three months old.
Color(s)
Comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
Coat
Soft and long single coat.
Coupari Personality and Temperament
Activity Level
Low to moderate
Positives
The Coupari is gentle and kind toward others and will get along well with children or other pets. However, the cat will typically bond with one person in the household. The Coupari is also extremely intelligent; the cat can even be taught to walk on a leash or play a game of fetch.
Coupari Care
Things to Consider
The Coupari is extremely docile and affectionate. They love interacting with humans and are saddened if left alone. In fact, the breed will become vocal and demand for attention on occasion, even rubbing against a leg for a quick pet.
Special Requirements
Because of their long hair, the Coupari should be groomed at least three times a week (preferably every day). Therefore, it is best to initiate a grooming ritual early. This includes de-tangling the cat’s hair with a wide-toothed comb and removing excess wax from its ears with a wet cloth at least once a month.
Coupari Health
The Coupari, which has an average lifespan of 15 years, should receive regular vaccinations and routine check-ups twice a year. The breed is prone to:
- Cardiomyopathy
- Polycystic kidney disease (a condition that often leads to kidney failure)
- Joint disease
Coupari History and Background
The history of the Coupari can be traced to the village of Coupar Angus — 13 miles northeast of Perth, Scotland — when a white barn cat named Susie was discovered with unusual ears in 1961. Suzie passed this unusual trait to her offspring, though some were long-haired while others were short-haired. However, when a standard was establised for the Scottish Fold, only the short-haired version was mentioned. The long-haired version, meanwhile, was rebuked by many because of it sported an “earless” look.
It was not until the 1980s, when an American exhibitor by the name of Hazel Swadberg began displaying long-haired Scottish Folds in exhibitions and cats shows, that the orphaned type began to garner fame and recognition.
By 1986, it was officially recognized as a separate breed by TICA (The International Cat Association), though it was given the name Scottish Fold Longhair. And by 1991, the CFF (Cat Fanciers’ Foundation) bestowed it Championship status, but with the name Longhair Fold. Meanwhile, the ACFA (American Cat Fanciers’ Association) refers to the breed as the Highland Fold.
While there is no internationally accepted name for the breed, this cat is beloved by all who encounter it.
