Highlander

Highlanders are confident, outgoing, and playful cats that love human attention. Despite their large, wild appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families. They are active and athletic, enjoying climbing, jumping, and interactive play. They are known for their clownish antics and love of entertaining their owners. They are social with visitors and typically get along well with children, other cats, and dogs. Intelligent and curious, they can learn tricks and enjoy puzzle toys. They have a moderate energy level — active but not manic. Their friendly, easygoing temperament belies their wild look.

The Highlander is a large, muscular cat that can weigh up to 20 pounds or more. Their most distinctive features are the loosely curled ears that curl back from the face, and a naturally short, thick tail ranging from hock-length to absent. The body is long, substantial, and well-muscled with a broad chest. The head is large and angular with prominent brow pads and wide-set eyes ranging from gold to green. The coat comes in both shorthair and longhair varieties. Polydactyly (extra toes) is common and accepted in the breed. Their overall appearance is of a powerful, wild-looking cat — but their expression is gentle and open.

The Highlander was developed in 2004 by crossing the Desert Lynx and Jungle Curl breeds. The goal was to create a large, domestic cat with a wild appearance featuring curled ears and a shortened tail. Originally called the Highland Lynx, the breed was renamed Highlander in 2005 to avoid the misconception of wild cat ancestry. TICA accepted the breed for preliminary new breed status in 2008 and advanced it to advanced new breed class. Despite the "Lynx" associations in its heritage breeds, the Highlander contains no confirmed wild cat DNA. Breeders continue to refine the breed while maintaining its distinctive appearance and friendly temperament.

Highlanders are generally healthy cats. Their curled ears, similar to the American Curl, require gentle handling but the curl gene is not associated with cartilage problems beyond the ears. Large breeds can be prone to hip dysplasia, so joint health should be monitored. Tailless or short-tailed individuals should be checked for any spinal issues. Their hearty build means weight management is important to prevent obesity and joint strain. Regular veterinary checkups, dental care, and age-appropriate screening are recommended. The breed is relatively new, so long-term health data continues to develop. Typical lifespan is 12 to 16 years.

Clean the curled ears gently on a weekly basis, checking for debris and wax buildup. Handle the ear cartilage carefully to avoid damage. Shorthaired Highlanders need weekly brushing, while longhaired varieties require two to three sessions per week. Feed a high-quality, protein-rich diet in measured portions to maintain their large, muscular build without excess weight. Provide sturdy cat furniture and climbing structures that can support their size. Daily play sessions of 15 to 20 minutes keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Their social nature means they appreciate family interaction and playtime.