Highlander
United States
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 4.5–9 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–15 yrs
- playful
- confident
- outgoing
- affectionate
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Highlander
The Highlander is a large, muscular cat with distinctive curled-back ears and a short, often bobbed tail. It was developed in North America with a deliberately wild look, but contains no wild-cat ancestry in its foundation. Both short and longhaired versions exist.
Temperament
Confident, playful and outgoing. Highlanders are described as clownish and affectionate, enjoying games and human company. Because the breed is young, temperament descriptions mostly come from breeders and small numbers of owners.
Play & activity
High. They need plenty of play, climbing and enrichment.
Grooming
Short coats need weekly brushing; long coats need it a few times a week.
Care & wellbeing
The curled ears should be checked and cleaned gently, as the shape can trap wax. The short tail varies between individuals. Information on long-term health is still limited.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 6.8 kg adult- Water
- 272 ml–408 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 350 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Highlander
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Highlander was developed from around 2004 in North America, originally under the name Highland Lynx, from crosses involving the Desert Lynx and Jungle Curl lines. TICA accepted it for registration and later for championship. Its precise background is not well documented.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Limited long-term health data
- Ear wax build-up in curled ears
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Routine vet checks
Not every Highlander is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Highlander right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Highlander get?
Adult Highlanders typically weigh around 4.5–9 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Highlanders live?
Typically 10–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Highlander?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Highlander need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Highlanders affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Highlanders shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Highlanders good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Highlander live in a flat?
It can work — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Highlanders have?
The breed can be prone to limited long-term health data, ear wax build-up in curled ears. Not every Highlander is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.