The unique appearance of the Highlander comes from the deliberate cross between the Desert Lynx and the Jungle Curl breeds, also recently developed.

[1][2] They are bobtailed or short-tailed, have spotted or classic bullseye markings, mackerel and resemble the bobcat.

[1][3] The Highlander has a long sloping forehead and blunt muzzle with a very wide nose.

[2] Despite the "big-cat look", the Highlander is a human-oriented, friendly and playful cat, and very active and confident.

[3][6] In 2022, the Highlander was accepted as a championship breed in the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA).