Highlander Exercise Needs
As an active breed, Highlanders require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy interactive play sessions with their owners, climbing cat trees, and solving puzzle toys. Providing a variety of toys and play opportunities helps keep these energetic cats mentally and physically stimulated.
Ideal Environment for a Highlander
Highlanders adapt well to various living situations, but they thrive in homes that can accommodate their active lifestyle. A spacious area with plenty of vertical spaces for climbing is ideal. They enjoy having access to windows for bird watching and sunbathing.
While they can adjust to apartment living, Highlanders appreciate having a safe outdoor space to explore, such as a securely enclosed patio or garden. Their adaptable nature makes them suitable for families, couples, or single owners who can provide attention and playtime.
Ideal Human for a Highlander
The ideal owner for a Highlander is someone who enjoys an active and interactive pet. These cats do best with people who can dedicate time for play and engagement. Their intelligence means they often enjoy learning tricks and participating in clicker training.
Highlanders are well-suited for families with children or other pets, as they generally get along well with everyone. However, their high energy levels mean they may not be the best choice for those seeking a calm lap cat.
Highlander Training
Highlanders are intelligent cats that respond well to positive reinforcement training. They can learn a variety of tricks and commands, making training sessions both fun and mentally stimulating for them.
Start training early to establish good habits. Use treats and praise to encourage desired behaviors. Highlanders often enjoy puzzle toys and food-dispensing games, which can be incorporated into their training routine.
These cats are typically easy to litter box train. Provide multiple litter boxes in multi-level homes to ensure easy access. Consistency and patience are key when training Highlanders, as with any cat breed.
Highlander Grooming
Highlanders are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short to medium-length coat requires brushing once or twice a week to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing may be necessary.
Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care should be part of their grooming routine. Start these practices early to help your Highlander become comfortable with handling.
Highlander Health
Highlanders are generally healthy cats, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their health and catch any potential problems early.
Some Highlanders may be prone to hip dysplasia, a condition that affects the hip joint. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can help mitigate this risk. They may also be susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a form of heart disease common in many cat breeds.
Their unique ear shape requires regular cleaning to prevent infections. Check and clean their ears gently as part of your regular grooming routine. As with all cats, dental health is important, so regular teeth brushing or dental treats can help maintain good oral hygiene.
Highlander Nutrition Needs
Highlanders require a balanced, high-quality diet to maintain their active lifestyle. Choose a cat food that is appropriate for their life stage (kitten, adult, or senior) and activity level. Look for foods with high-quality protein sources as the main ingredient.
Due to their larger size and high energy levels, Highlanders may require more calories than some other breeds. However, it's important to monitor their food intake to prevent obesity, which can lead to health issues.
Fresh water should always be available. Some Highlanders enjoy running water, so a cat fountain might encourage them to drink more. As with any dietary changes, consult with your veterinarian to determine the best nutrition plan for your individual Highlander.
Highlander History
The Highlander is a relatively new breed, developed in the United States in the early 2000s. Breeders aimed to create a domestic cat with a wild appearance, particularly focusing on the distinctive curled ears.
Originally called the "Highland Lynx," the breed was renamed to Highlander in 2005 to avoid confusion with the Highland Lynx hybrid breed. The Highlander gained championship status with The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2018.
Getting a Highlander
When considering adding a Highlander to your family, research reputable breeders or consider adoption from a breed-specific rescue. Reputable breeders will provide health clearances for their kittens and allow you to visit their cattery.
Expect to be placed on a waiting list, as Highlanders are still a relatively rare breed. Prices can vary widely depending on the breeder and the cat's pedigree.
