06/06/2026
Dear Highlander Lovers, families, friends and potential homes for our beloved breed. There have recently been some loud announcements that have not been fully accurate. "We would like to help calm any fears by posting the correct information such as:
1) There has not been a decline in Highlander breeders and catteries. In fact, there has been a significant INCREASE in Highlander breeders and Breed Section members over the past year from 33 to 48 now with the Highlander breed being established in Columbia, Austria, Germany, Canada, France and the US.
2) Under the successful leadership of our breed chair, Mary Hudec, the Highlander breed has become one of the most genetically tested pedigreed breeds ever! The results of the testing have proven that the Highlander has NO KNOWN genetic markers for feline diseases directly related to or attributed to our breed! Isolated incidents have been traced to environmental factors and to people who have chosen to cross Highlanders with other breeds that have these issues.
3) Sporadic testing and utilizing the advice from mature, experienced mentors has already begun to help prevent any potential overlap from the nonpermissable crossbreed cats.
4) The Highlander breed has maintained a very impressive level of diversity which has been above many other pedigreed breeds.
The Highlander Pedigree Project, founded by Jamie Woods, tracks bloodlines and helps new and current breeders choose their breeding cats wisely.
5) The Highlander Breeders have spearheaded a genetic tail research study with many foundational breeders and Bobbi Temple working closely with Dr. Lyons on the continuation of the project. Openingly and willing to share information and genes with other breeds that need it in the future.
6) Many years of outstanding leadership and the mentoring from experienced Highlander breeders, as well as the proper implementation of selective breeding, has been the key to our success. There are many Vets that have become very trusted partners that work with breeders and pet owners alike in many areas.
Furthermore, as a breed we refuse to partake in a slander campaign of our breed, its values, our mentors, our board advisors or those that have dedicated their time and effort to bring us to where we are today. We love our breed and will continue to be there to support it.
To ensure you are getting correct statistical information, please feel free to contact our TICA Highlander Breed Chairperson Mary Hudec
