From North America. Breed development from Desert Lynx x Jungle Curl crosses began in 2004 per TICA; Litter-Robot places the start in the United States in the 1990s, and Wikipedia lists Canada.123
A big, powerful, muscular cat bred for a wild look, with long flexible hind legs and large knuckled feet. Its ears stand tall and wide with the top third loosely curled back, the tail is naturally short and thick, and the face has a long sloping forehead, wide nose and boxy muzzle. The coat may be short or long.12
Coloursspotted or classic tabby patternslynx (tabby) point and solid pointvarious colours; bicolours are not accepted for show24
Personality what they are like
Despite its wildcat looks, the Highlander is a sweet, outgoing clown that loves people, greets guests with enthusiasm and throws itself into games. It is confident, energetic and fairly quiet, and many owners compare it to a dog.1243
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Very high. Needs lots of daily interactive play and room to run and climb; many enjoy fetch and harness walks.143
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Shorthairs need only occasional brushing; longhairs need regular sessions. Trim nails every month or two and keep ears clean.43
Home where they are happiest
Suits an active household with plenty of space, sturdy climbing furniture and toys.41
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, balanced cat food, matched with plenty of exercise to keep this large cat in good shape.3
Company who they like around
Very sociable and does well with children and other pets; enjoys being the centre of attention.41
The story where it all began
Breeders set out to create a domestic cat with a 'big cat' look by crossing the Desert Lynx with the Jungle Curl. First called the Highland Lynx, it was renamed Highlander in 2005, and TICA accepted it as a Preliminary New Breed in 2008. It contains no recent wildcat ancestry.124
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
TICA notes that a happy Highlander may wag its short tail like a dog.1
2
Many Highlanders are fascinated by running water and happily play with it.4
3
They mature slowly and can take three to four years to reach full size.4
4
Some are born with extra toes, which is allowed as a pet but not in the show ring.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name Highlander was adopted in late 2005, chosen to reflect the breed's powerful, 'big cat' look and its development from domestic cats with short tails and a curled cat from Canada.2
I woke up ready to pounce. First I fetched my toy mouse five times for my human. Then I climbed my cat tree to the top and surveyed my kingdom. A guest arrived, so I greeted them with headbutts and led them to my favorite toy. After a harness walk, I napped in a sunbeam. Dinner was served, and I chirped thank you. Life is good.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
TICA
Preliminary New Breed from 1 May 2008, later Advanced New Breed; championship status from 1 May 2025 (per Wikipedia)2
A typical home-care rhythm for a Highlander. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery 2 days
Deshedding springBrush more while sheddingevery day
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
Highlander tip
Highlanders are active and muscular, so reward them with high-protein, low-calorie treats like freeze-dried chicken or fish. Keep treats under 10% of daily calories to avoid weight gain, and ask your vet for a tailored portion plan.
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 Highlander, and at what times?
Feed a complete, balanced cat food, but the frequency and times vary by age and routine; ask your vet for a personalized schedule.3
What should a Highlander eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a complete, balanced cat food. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol.35
Does a Highlander need baths?
Baths are rarely needed; only when very dirty or sticky. Furry Diary's plan does not include baths.6
How often does a Highlander need brushing?
For shorthairs, occasional brushing (once or twice a week); for longhairs, regular sessions (every few days). Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every 2 days and deshedding daily, especially during shedding.436Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Highlander's claws, and how often?
Trim nails every month or two according to breed info, but many experts suggest every ten days to two weeks. Furry Diary's plan suggests every 21 days. Start slowly, trimming only a couple of claws per session.436Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Highlander need?
Very high activity needs; lots of daily interactive play, room to run and climb. Furry Diary's plan includes daily play.143Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Highlander's teeth and ears?
Keep ears clean as part of grooming. For teeth, Furry Diary's plan suggests brushing every 2 days, ideally daily. Consult your vet for proper techniques.43Pet Wiki plan
Is a Highlander good with children and other pets?
Yes, very sociable and does well with children and other pets. They love being the centre of attention.41
Can a Highlander be left alone?
Highlanders are very sociable and love people, so they prefer not to be left alone for long. For specific advice, ask your vet or breeder.41
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.
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