Highlander — Accessories & Essentials

A properly fitted collar is a basic safety accessory for any cat, even one that lives exclusively indoors. Breakaway collars are the standard recommendation for cats because they are designed to release under pressure, preventing strangulation if the collar catches on furniture, branches, or fencing. For a large cat like the Highlander, ensure the breakaway mechanism is strong enough to stay clasped during normal activity but will still release under sustained force.

Harnesses are the preferred option if you plan to take your Highlander on outdoor walks or supervised garden excursions. A standard collar should never be used with a leash for a cat, as the pressure on the throat can cause injury and most cats can easily slip out of a collar when motivated. A well-fitted harness distributes pressure across the chest and shoulders, providing secure control without risk of choking. Look for H-style or vest-style harnesses sized for larger cats, with adjustable straps that accommodate the Highlander's broad chest.

Leash training a Highlander requires patience but is very achievable given the breed's confident and curious temperament. Start indoors with the harness alone, allowing your cat to wear it for short periods until they move naturally without resistance. Then attach a lightweight leash and let them drag it around the house under supervision before you begin guiding them. The transition to outdoor walks should be gradual, starting in a quiet, enclosed area before venturing into busier environments.

Reflective or LED-equipped collars and harnesses add a layer of safety for cats that spend time outdoors during dawn, dusk, or nighttime hours. Even in a supervised setting, visibility accessories help you keep track of your Highlander in low-light conditions and make the cat more visible to vehicles if you are walking near roads.

The Highlander's coat can range from short to medium length, and both varieties benefit from regular grooming. Short-coated Highlanders require less frequent brushing — once or twice a week is generally sufficient — while those with slightly longer or denser coats may need grooming three to four times a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. A rubber grooming mitt or a soft bristle brush works well for short coats, while a slicker brush or stainless steel comb is more appropriate for medium-length fur.

Deshedding tools can be particularly useful during seasonal coat changes in spring and fall when shedding tends to increase. These tools are designed to reach the undercoat and remove loose fur before it ends up on your furniture and clothing. Use deshedding tools gently and avoid overuse, as aggressive deshedding can irritate the skin and damage the healthy topcoat.

Nail trimming is a regular grooming task that should not be overlooked. Highlanders are active cats that may wear down their claws somewhat through play and scratching, but most indoor cats still need their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Guillotine-style or scissor-style nail clippers designed for cats are both effective. If you are uncomfortable trimming nails yourself, a veterinarian or professional groomer can demonstrate proper technique during your next visit.

Dental care tools round out the grooming essentials. A cat-specific toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste formulated for felines should ideally be used several times a week to prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. Finger brushes are often easier to maneuver in a cat's small mouth than traditional handles. Start dental care early in your Highlander's life to build tolerance for the process.

The type of bowl you choose can affect your Highlander's eating habits, hydration, and even whisker comfort. Whisker fatigue — a condition where overstimulation of the sensitive whiskers causes discomfort during eating — is a real concern for some cats. Wide, shallow bowls or flat plates minimize whisker contact and allow your cat to eat comfortably without pressing their whiskers against the sides of a deep dish.

Material matters when selecting food and water bowls. Stainless steel and ceramic are the preferred options because they are non-porous, easy to clean, and do not harbor bacteria the way plastic can. Plastic bowls can develop microscopic scratches over time that trap bacteria, and some cats develop chin acne from prolonged contact with plastic surfaces. If you do use plastic, replace bowls regularly and wash them thoroughly after each use.

Elevated feeding stations can benefit larger cats like the Highlander by reducing neck strain during meals. A raised platform that positions the bowl at a comfortable height — roughly four to six inches off the ground for most cats — promotes a more natural eating posture and may aid digestion. Some elevated feeders also include angled bowls that further reduce strain.

Water fountains are strongly recommended over still-water bowls for most cats. Cats have an instinctive preference for moving water, which they perceive as fresher and safer than stagnant sources. Fountains encourage increased water consumption, which supports kidney and urinary tract health. Choose a fountain with a quiet pump, easy-to-clean components, and replaceable filters. Stainless steel or ceramic fountains are preferable to plastic for the same hygiene reasons that apply to food bowls.

A sturdy, appropriately sized carrier is essential for veterinary visits, travel, and emergency evacuations. Highlanders are large cats, and many standard-sized carriers are too small for them to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably. Look for carriers rated for cats up to twenty-five pounds, with internal dimensions that give your Highlander room to shift positions during transit. A cramped carrier increases stress and can make the experience traumatic for both cat and owner.

Hard-sided carriers offer superior protection during car travel and can be securely belted into a vehicle seat. They are also easier to clean if your cat has an accident during transport. Soft-sided carriers are lighter and more portable, making them convenient for short trips, but they provide less structural protection and may sag under the weight of a large cat. For a Highlander, a hard-sided carrier is generally the better choice for regular use.

Top-loading carriers can significantly reduce the stress of getting your Highlander in and out of the carrier. Instead of trying to push a reluctant cat through a front door — a battle that many owners dread — you can gently lower the cat into the carrier from above. Dual-entry carriers with both front and top openings offer the most flexibility.

For longer car trips, consider a carrier that can be expanded or connected to a small playpen enclosure, giving your cat more room during extended travel. Always secure the carrier with a seatbelt or cargo strap to prevent it from sliding or tipping during sudden stops. Never place a carrier in the front seat where an airbag deployment could be fatal. A travel kit including a collapsible litter box, portable water dish, and a familiar blanket or toy can help make longer journeys more comfortable for your Highlander.

Identification is critical for any cat, even one that lives exclusively indoors. Indoor cats can and do escape through open doors, torn screens, or during the confusion of home repairs or moving day. A microchip is the most reliable form of permanent identification because it cannot fall off, be removed, or become illegible like a collar tag. Microchipping is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that most veterinarians can perform during a routine visit.

Collar tags provide a visible, immediately readable form of identification that complements a microchip. A tag with your cat's name and your phone number allows anyone who finds your cat to contact you directly without needing to visit a veterinarian or shelter to scan for a chip. Keep the information on the tag current, especially if you move or change phone numbers. Some owners opt for engraved collars or slide-on tag sleeves that reduce the jingling noise associated with hanging tags.

Register your cat's microchip with a national pet recovery database and keep your contact information updated. A microchip is only useful if the registration information is current — a surprising number of lost pets with microchips cannot be reunited with their owners because the registered phone number or address is outdated.

Childproofing and pet-proofing your home is another dimension of cat safety. Secure window screens to prevent falls, cover or conceal electrical cords that could be chewed, store toxic household chemicals and medications in locked cabinets, and ensure that toilet lids are kept closed. Highlanders are curious, athletic cats that can reach places other cats cannot, so think vertically when assessing potential hazards.

Seasonal considerations affect the accessories your Highlander may need throughout the year. In summer, cooling mats, elevated mesh beds that allow air circulation underneath, and access to shaded resting spots help prevent overheating. If your Highlander uses a catio, ensure it has adequate shade coverage and consider adding a misting fan or frozen water bottles wrapped in towels for cooling during peak heat.

Winter brings the need for warmth-retaining accessories, particularly in drafty homes or cooler climates. Self-warming beds that reflect the cat's body heat, thermal blankets, and heated pads can keep your Highlander comfortable without running up your heating bill. If your cat has outdoor access, limit time outside during freezing temperatures and always provide a warm, dry re-entry point.

Seasonal coat changes may require adjusting your grooming routine and tools. Spring and fall shedding cycles are more pronounced in some Highlanders than others, but most will benefit from increased brushing frequency during these periods. A good deshedding tool and a lint roller for your furniture are seasonal essentials that pay for themselves quickly.

Holiday and event safety deserves special attention. Fireworks, thunderstorms, and large gatherings can be stressful for cats. Having a safe room — a quiet, comfortable space where your Highlander can retreat during noisy events — along with calming accessories like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps can help reduce stress. Keep holiday decorations, tinsel, ribbon, and small ornaments out of reach, as these items are attractive to playful cats and can cause choking or intestinal blockage if ingested.