Why the Highlander Breed Is the Perfect Family Companion

October 20, 2025

Overview of the Highlander Breed

The Highlander cat is a unique and enchanting breed known for its striking appearance and sociable personality. This breed arose in the early 2000s, developed by breeders in the United States and Canada from the crossing of Scottish Fold, American Bobtail, and several other breeds. With their distinctive folded ears, round faces, and sturdy bodies, Highlanders possess a charm that appeals to many households.

Temperament and Personality Traits

Highlanders are known for their gentle and playful demeanor, making them ideal companions for both families and individuals. They are friendly, affectionate, and often enjoy being around people. They thrive on social interaction and are known for their loyalty to their human families.

Additionally, Highlanders tend to adjust well to different environments, making them suitable for various types of households, from bustling homes with kids to quieter apartments. They are generally good with children and can get along well with other pets, reinforcing their reputation as a family-friendly breed.

Grooming Needs

Highlanders come in both long-haired and short-haired varieties. While the short-haired ones require minimal grooming, the long-haired type needs regular brushing to prevent matting and maintain healthy fur. Regular grooming not only keeps their coat in good shape but also serves as an opportunity for bonding with your pet.

Health Considerations

The Highlander breed is generally healthy, but like any breed, they are prone to specific health issues. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and exercise are crucial for maintaining their overall well-being. It’s also essential for potential owners to do their homework regarding reputable breeders, as a well-bred Highlander is more likely to live a long and healthy life.

Training and Socialization Tips

Training and socialization are crucial for Highlanders to thrive in a family environment. Here are some tips:

Start Early: Begin training and socialization when they’re kittens. Early exposure to different environments, people, and other pets can foster a well-adjusted adult cat.

Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Highlanders respond well to positive reinforcement rather than harsh discipline.

Playtime: Incorporate play into training. Since Highlanders have an affectionate and playful nature, engaging them in fun activities can strengthen your bond while teaching them important commands.

Understanding emotional support animals (ESA)

An emotional support animal (ESA) is a pet that provides comfort and support to its owner in times of emotional distress. Unlike service animals, which are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, ESAs are not required to be trained for particular tasks. Instead, their primary role is to offer companionship.

Benefits of Having an ESA

Numerous studies demonstrate the emotional and mental health benefits of having an ESA, showing that they can:

Reduce Anxiety: Simply petting a cat or dog can lower anxiety levels. Their presence can create a soothing environment, ideal for individuals going through stressful times.

Combat Loneliness: ESAs provide companionship, creating a sense of security and reducing feelings of isolation.

Improve Mood: Interacting with animals releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters. Many people report feeling happier and more at ease with their pets nearby.

Real-Life Examples

Consider a 30-year-old woman named Sarah who has struggled with anxiety after a traumatic event. After adopting a Highlander cat, she discovered that the gentle purring and loving nature of her feline friend made her feel more relaxed and connected. Each time she felt overwhelmed, cuddling with her cat brought her comfort and peace of mind.

Another example is Michael, a veteran dealing with PTSD. His therapy dog, an emotionally supportive Golden Retriever, helps him manage triggers and anxiety. The dog serves not only as a pet but also as an important part of his recovery journey.

Key Information

Breed Overview: The Highlander breed is known for its playful, affectionate nature, making it an excellent family companion.

Grooming Needs: Requires regular grooming, especially the long-haired variety.

Health Considerations: Generally healthy but monitoring is crucial.

Training Needs: Early socialization and positive reinforcement are key for developing good behavior.

ESA Definition: ESAs are pets that provide emotional support and companionship to help individuals cope with emotional or psychological conditions.

How Dogs and Cats Provide Emotional Support

The impact of pets on emotional health can be traced back to psychological studies demonstrating that animal companionship can trigger physiological responses. Interactions with pets can increase levels of oxytocin (the love hormone) and decrease cortisol (the stress hormone), fostering feelings of joy and reducing anxiety.

The Science Behind It

Physical Touch: Petting an animal creates a bond and triggers emotional responses in the brain. This physical interaction can soothe nerves and elevate mood.

Routine: Caring for an animal also creates structure and purpose in a person’s life, promoting a sense of normalcy and stability that is beneficial for emotional recovery.

Unconditional Love: Pets offer a type of companionship that is free from judgment. Their love is unconditional and they are always happy to see you, providing consistent emotional support.

FAQs about Emotional Support Animals

1. What qualifies a pet as an Emotional Support Animal?

Any domesticated animal can qualify as an ESA, but the key requirement is that it offers comfort and emotional support to its owner.

2. Do I need special training for my ESA?

Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specialized training. However, they should be well-behaved.

3. How can I get my pet certified as an ESA?

You can have your pet certified through licensed mental health professionals who evaluate your need for an ESA.

4. Can I take my ESA everywhere with me?

ESAs have limited rights compared to service dogs. While they can accompany you in certain public spaces, this varies by laws and regulations.

5. Do ESAs require registration?

While registration is not legally required, obtaining documentation from a licensed mental health professional is essential to qualify your pet as an ESA.

6. Can I use my cat or dog as an ESA?

Absolutely! Both cats and dogs can serve as effective Emotional Support Animals.

7. Can my ESA live with me in no-pet housing?

In many cases, landlords are required to make accommodations for ESAs, but proper documentation is needed.

8. How do I find a mental health professional for ESA documentation?

Online platforms like Veripaw can connect you with licensed mental health professionals for ESA evaluations.

Conclusion

If you’re considering adding a Highlander to your family or wish to designate your existing pet as an Emotional Support Animal, resources like Veripaw.org can be immensely helpful. Veripaw has been assisting pet owners in connecting with licensed mental health professionals, obtaining ESA documentation, and accessing high-quality pet accessories since 2012. With the right support, you can secure the companionship and emotional security that you and your pet deserve. Embrace the journey of healing and happiness today!