Highlander Cat Care Information

Highlanders are 100% domesticated and generally do well on high-quality commercial cat foods, including Purina Pro Plan. Purina provides well-balanced nutrition that supports the dietary needs of cats at all life stages. While every cat is unique and may have specific dietary requirements, many Highlanders thrive on Purina’s formula under our care.

If you have any concerns about your Highlander’s diet or need guidance in selecting the best food for your cat’s specific needs, feel free to reach out!

Highlanders do quite well with all litter boxes.

We strongly recommend using high-quality, low-dust litter to maintain their respiratory and urinary health. We personally use Arm & Hammer and Tidy Cats Multi-Cat formulas. Avoid high-dust clay litters, as Highlanders are known to be more susceptible to upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and bladder issues when exposed to excessive dust.

Additionally, do not use PrettyLitter for Highlanders, as it has been known to cause complications in the breed.

If you ever notice your Highlander eating their litter, switch immediately to a non-clumping formula. Clumping litter can cause dangerous blockages if ingested, leading to serious health issues.

Highlanders, like all cats, have sensitive respiratory systems and can be affected by certain household products. Some common items that may cause respiratory distress, allergic reactions, or toxicity include:

1. Air Fresheners & Plug-Ins

Many commercial air fresheners, plug-ins, and sprays contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), phthalates, and essential oils that can irritate a cat’s lungs, leading to sneezing, coughing, or even breathing difficulties.

2. Candles & Wax Melts

Scented candles and wax melts often contain paraffin, synthetic fragrances, and essential oils that release harmful toxins when burned. These can cause respiratory irritation and may even be toxic if a cat comes into contact with or ingests the wax. If using candles, opt for soy or beeswax with natural, unscented wicks.

3. Perfumes & Fragranced Body Sprays

Strong perfumes and body sprays can be overwhelming to cats and may cause allergic reactions, sneezing, or watery eyes. If your Highlander seems irritated by a fragrance, it’s best to avoid using it around them.

4. Cleaning Products

Many household cleaners contain bleach, ammonia, phenols, or artificial fragrances, all of which can be harmful to cats if inhaled or ingested. Phenol-based cleaners (often found in Lysol and Pine-Sol) are especially dangerous and can cause serious health issues. Always opt for pet-safe, non-toxic cleaning products.

Signs Your Highlander May Be Affected:

-Sneezing, coughing, or wheezing

-Watery eyes or nasal discharge

-Excessive grooming or skin irritation

-Lethargy or difficulty breathing

-Avoiding areas where certain scents are present

Safe Alternatives:

-Use unscented, pet-safe air purifiers instead of air fresheners.

-Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning products or make your own using diluted vinegar and baking soda.

-If using candles, opt for soy or beeswax with cotton wicks and avoid synthetic fragrances.

Avoid direct exposure to strong perfumes and body sprays around your cat.

If your Highlander shows any signs of distress or illness after exposure to these products, remove the source immediately and consult your veterinarian if symptoms persist.

For more guidance on keeping your Highlander safe, feel free to reach out!