Highland Lynx: Everything You Need to Know About This Extraordinary Cat
With its wild look, curled ears, and sometimes extra toes, the Highland Lynx, also called the Highlander, never goes unnoticed. This feline with a unique appearance and an endearing temperament is winning over more and more cat lovers. But who is it really? Where does it come from? Is it suited for family life? Here is everything you need to know about this breed, still little known in France but fascinating in many respects.
To learn more about this extraordinary breed, we recommend the following video: https://youtu.be/0SwDexMbFko?si=IKTMwoykG9X36GDE
Highland Lynx, everything to know: What is a Highland Lynx?
The Highland Lynx is a relatively recent feline breed, created in the United States in the 1990s. It is a cross between two domestic breeds: the Jungle Curl and the Desert Lynx. Breeders aimed to create a cat with the appearance of a lynx, while retaining an affectionate and sociable character.
Although it bears the name “Lynx,” this cat has nothing wild about it: it is a fully domestic animal.
Physical characteristics of the Highland Lynx
The Highland Lynx is immediately recognizable thanks to several unique characteristics:
• Curled ears
This is one of its trademarks: its ears curl backward, in the manner of the American Curl cat. This feature is due to a natural genetic mutation, with no negative impact on its health.
• Polydactyly
Many Highland Lynx cats are polydactyl, meaning they have more toes than usual (up to 7 per paw). This trait reinforces their appearance as a small wild feline.
• A short or absent tail
Some Highland Lynx cats are born with a short tail (bobtail), or even no tail at all, like Manx cats. This trait isn’t systematic but reinforces their rugged look.
• Coat and eyes
Their coat can be short or medium-length, and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, often marbled (tabby, spotted, snow…). Their eyes are generally almond-shaped, often gold, green, or blue.
To view all our available Highland Lynx kittens: our available Highland Lynx kittens
A cat with a wild look, but a tender heart
Behind its sturdy, feline silhouette, the Highland Lynx hides a surprisingly gentle and affectionate temperament. It’s a cat that’s very close to humans, often compared to a dog for its loyalty and desire to follow its owner everywhere.
A very communicative cat
It meows, coos, “talks” with its owners: the Highland Lynx loves to interact and doesn’t hesitate to make itself heard.
Ideal for families
This sociable cat gets along very well with children, other cats, and even dogs. It loves to play, run, curl up on the couch, and be part of family life.
Intelligent and curious
The Highland Lynx learns quickly and can even be trained to fetch objects or walk on a leash. It needs mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
Can you adopt a Highland Lynx in France?
In France, the Highland Lynx is still rare. Very few catteries are dedicated to this breed, making it a sought-after cat among enthusiasts. It is therefore advisable to turn to a serious breeder, who respects animal welfare and raises their cats in a family setting.
Before adopting, learn thoroughly about the needs of this breed.
Highland Lynx, everything to know: Needs and care
Grooming
The Highland Lynx requires little maintenance. Weekly brushing is enough, except for medium-haired individuals who may need slightly more regular care.
Feeding
Like any cat, it needs a balanced diet, suited to its age and lifestyle. Its size may justify a diet rich in quality animal protein.
Activity
This is an active cat, which needs toys, scratching posts, and a stimulating environment. Secure outdoor access or indoor enrichment is recommended.
Health: Is the Highland Lynx robust?
The Highland Lynx is generally a healthy cat. To date, there is no specific genetic disease associated with the breed. However, like all cats, it must be monitored by a veterinarian and receive basic care (vaccines, deworming, spaying/neutering if applicable).
Polydactyly and curled ears are aesthetic traits with no negative impact if they come from healthy lines.
Highland Lynx, everything to know: What is the price of a Highland Lynx kitten?
The price of a Highland Lynx kitten varies depending on:
- The rarity of the coat or certain characteristics (very curled ears, absence of tail, polydactyly),
- The quality of the lineage (companion, breeding, show),
- The seriousness of the cattery.
Expect to pay on average between €1,200 and €2,200 for a Highland Lynx kitten in France.
Highland Lynx breed profile
| Breed name | Highland Lynx (or Highlander) |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Breed creation | 1990s |
| Type of cat | Domestic cat with a wild appearance |
| Physical characteristics | Curled ears, polydactyly, short or absent tail |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Average weight | Male: 4 to 7 kg – Female: 3 to 5 kg |
| Coat type | Short or medium-length |
| Colors | Marbled, spotted (tabby, snow, silver, etc.) |
| Eyes | Almond-shaped, often gold, green, or blue |
| Temperament | Affectionate, sociable, intelligent |
| Compatibility with children | Excellent |
| Compatibility with other animals | Very good |
| Activity needs | Moderate to high |
| Grooming | Low to moderate |
| Life expectancy | 12 to 16 years on average |
| Average kitten price | €1,200 to €2,200 |
| Availability in France | Rare – few specialized catteries |
FAQ about the Highland Lynx
🔹 Is the Highland Lynx a wild cat?
No, despite its lynx-like appearance, the Highland Lynx is a 100% domestic cat. It was selected for its feline look and affectionate temperament. It is perfectly suited to family life.
🔹 What is the difference between a Highland Lynx and a Highlander?
There is none: both names refer to the same breed. “Highland Lynx” is the original name, while “Highlander” is often used by cat associations.
🔹 Is the Highland Lynx suited to apartment living?
Yes. The Highland Lynx can live very well in an apartment, provided it has enough games, interactions, and an enriched space. It is intelligent and active, so a stimulating environment is recommended.
🔹 Does the Highland Lynx meow a lot?
This cat is rather talkative! It loves to “talk” with its human, with little meows, coos, or soft growls. It is very communicative, without being noisy.
🔹 Does the Highland Lynx’s polydactyly cause health problems?
No, polydactyly (extra toes per paw) is a natural genetic characteristic. It poses no danger to the cat, as long as the claws are well maintained.
🔹 Can you easily find Highland Lynx cats in France?
The breed is still rare in France, but a few specialized catteries exist. It is advisable to book in advance and choose a passionate, registered breeder.
🔹 Is the Highland Lynx hypoallergenic?
No, the Highland Lynx is not a hypoallergenic breed. However, some allergic people tolerate it better, especially if it has short hair. This depends on individual sensitivity.
🔹 How much does a Highland Lynx kitten cost?
The price of a kitten varies depending on the lineage, the rarity of certain characteristics (short tail, curled ears, etc.), and the quality of the cattery. On average, a Highland Lynx kitten costs between €1,200 and €2,000.
In summary: why choose a Highland Lynx?
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Unique, curled ears, sometimes tailless, often polydactyl |
| Temperament | Affectionate, sociable, intelligent |
| Maintenance | Easy, little grooming |
| Adaptability | Excellent, suited to families and other animals |
| Price | High, but justified by its rarity |
Highland Lynx, everything to know: Conclusion
The Highland Lynx is much more than a cat with an original look. It is a tender, intelligent, and loyal companion, sure to delight families looking for a unique cat, both in appearance and character. If you’re lucky enough to come across one… you’re very likely to fall in love.