The Highlander is a relatively new and rare breed that was developed in the early 2000s in the United States. Created by crossing Desert Lynx and Jungle Curl cats, the breed was designed to resemble a wildcat while maintaining a friendly domestic temperament.
Although the Highlander looks exotic, it has no wild ancestry and is 100% domestic. The breed is recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) as an advanced new breed, but it remains rare outside of dedicated breeders and cat enthusiasts.
The Highlander is gaining attention among cat lovers who appreciate its exotic appearance and playful nature. While not yet widely known, it has a dedicated following, particularly in North America.
The Highlander is a medium-to-large cat with a muscular build and unique facial features.
• Coat: Can be short or long, with a soft, plush texture.
• Colors: Comes in various colors and patterns, including tabby, spotted, and solid.
• Size: Medium-to-large, weighing between 10 to 20 pounds.
• Head & Expression: The breed has a broad, slightly rounded head with wide-set eyes and prominent cheekbones.
• Ears: Naturally curled ears, giving it a wild look.
• Tail: A distinctive short, bobbed tail that may be kinked or curled.
Despite its wild look, the Highlander is known for being affectionate, intelligent, and highly playful, making it a fun-loving companion.
• Energetic and Playful: Enjoys interactive play, climbing, and running.
• Affectionate and Loyal: Forms strong bonds with its owners and loves to cuddle.
• Highly Intelligent: Learns tricks quickly and enjoys training and puzzle toys.
• Social and Friendly: Gets along well with children, other cats, and dogs.
• Not Overly Vocal: Communicates with soft chirps and trills rather than loud meows.
For those looking for a unique-looking, friendly, and active cat, the Highlander is a fantastic choice.
• Ideal for Active Families: Thrives in homes that provide plenty of playtime and interaction.
• Low Grooming Needs: Short-haired Highlanders require minimal brushing, while long-haired varieties need weekly grooming.
• Unique and Eye-Catching: Its curled ears and bobbed tail make it one of the most distinctive cat breeds.
• Great for Multi-Pet Households: Enjoys the company of other animals and children.
• Not Demanding but Loves Attention: Prefers companionship but is not overly clingy.
The Highlander requires regular play, mental stimulation, and a balanced diet to thrive.
• Grooming: Weekly brushing for long-haired Highlanders; short-haired varieties require minimal grooming.
• Exercise: Needs daily play sessions to stay active and prevent boredom.
• Mental Stimulation: Enjoys puzzle feeders, climbing structures, and interactive toys.
• Nutrition: Provide a high-protein diet to maintain muscle mass and energy levels.
• Socialization: Benefits from early exposure to different environments and people.
The Highlander is a generally healthy breed, but some genetic conditions may occur.
• Joint Sensitivity: Some cats may have slight mobility concerns due to their muscular build.
• Tail-Related Issues: Since the breed has a bobbed tail, some kittens may develop minor spinal irregularities.
• Obesity: Regular exercise is essential to prevent weight gain.
• Ear Cleaning: Their curled ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent wax buildup.
Compared to the Bengal, the Highlander is less independent and more affectionate, while still being active. Unlike the Savannah, which has wild ancestry, the Highlander is entirely domestic but still has an exotic look.
Compared to the Maine Coon, the Highlander is more playful and energetic, while Maine Coons tend to be more laid-back.
The Highlander is perfect for families, singles, and cat lovers who want a unique-looking, affectionate, and playful companion. If you enjoy interactive pets and want a cat that engages with you, the Highlander will be a wonderful fit.
However, if you prefer a calm, low-energy breed, or are looking for a fully independent cat, this breed may not be the best choice.
United Pet Club is here to help you find the perfect Highlander companion. Whether you're looking to adopt or connect with trusted breeders, we provide valuable resources to guide you every step of the way.
Explore our platform to learn more about Highlanders, their history, and how to care for them. Contact United Pet Club today to start your journey with this wild-looking yet loving feline!