A breed of mutant owl-like cats made popular by Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran should be banned because their genes make them prone to arthritis, according to campaigners.
Scottish fold cats are known for their adorable floppy ears and prominent whiskers that make it look like they are smiling.
But experts have warned that the genetic mutation which causes the breed's appearance could make the animals vulnerable to health problems.
Veterinary internal medicine specialist Dr Richard Malik of Sydney University said breeding the cats is 'cruel' and 'ethically indefensible'.
Scottish fold cats are known for their adorable floppy ears and prominent whiskers that make it look like they are smiling.
Taylor Swift, pictured above left, has one named Olivia Benson
It is thought that the cartilage abnormality which causes their ears to fold forward could also cause joint problems.
The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) is calling for the SNP government to ban breeding of the animals.
SSPCA chief superintendent Mike Flynn told The Times: 'It is common for the breed to suffer from serious health problems.
'The cartilage and bones do not develop properly, which leads to arthritis and other painful joint diseases that can cause reluctance to move, abnormal posture and gait, lameness and short, misshapen limbs.'
'We welcome any change to legislation to prevent the breeding and sale of Scottish fold cats.'