What is the difference between a American Shorthair and a Highlander?

The American Shorthair is 8–12 lbs sized while the Highlander is 10–20 lbs sized. They differ in size (8–12 lbs vs 10–20 lbs), lifespan (15–20 years vs 10–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, American Shorthair or Highlander?

American Shorthair is generally good with kids. Highlander is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, American Shorthair or Highlander?

The American Shorthair has a lifespan of 15–20 years while the Highlander has a lifespan of 10–15 years.

American Shorthair vs Highlander — Breed Comparison

About the American Shorthair

The American Shorthair descends from European cats brought to North America on ships like the Mayflower, where they earned their keep as skilled mousers. This medium-to-large breed weighs 8–15 pounds and boasts a powerful, well-proportioned build with a broad chest. Their dense, short coat comes in over 80 recognized colors and patterns, with the classic silver tabby being the most iconic.

Temperament & Personality

American Shorthairs are easygoing, adaptable cats that strike a perfect balance between playful and laid-back. They are patient and gentle with children, coexist peacefully with other pets, and are content to entertain themselves when the family is busy. Their calm, even temperament and low-maintenance nature have made them one of America's most popular breeds for decades.

Pros

Exceptionally healthy breed with a lifespan of 15–20 years
Low-maintenance coat that rarely mats or tangles
Independent enough to handle owners' work schedules without anxiety
Natural mouser — helps keep the home pest-free

Cons

Prone to obesity if diet and exercise are not carefully managed
Can be reserved with strangers and may take time to warm up
Not as interactive or trainable as more active breeds
Seasonal shedding can be heavy despite the short coat

Ready to welcome an American Shorthair into your home? Browse available cats for adoption on Puplister.

About the Highlander

The Highlander — originally called the Highland Lynx — was developed in 2004 by crossing Desert Lynx cats with Jungle Curls, aiming to create a domestic cat with a wild appearance. This large breed weighs 10–25 pounds and has a powerful, muscular build with a naturally short or bobbed tail. Their most distinctive features are their loosely curled ears (curling backward like the American Curl) and their optional polydactyl (extra-toed) paws — their coat comes in both shorthair and longhair varieties in all colors and patterns.

Temperament & Personality

Highlanders are confident, outgoing cats that love to be the center of attention and entertain their families with playful antics. They are gentle giants — patient with children, friendly with dogs, and sociable with other cats. Their clownish, energetic personality combined with their wild appearance makes them a conversation-starting companion.

Pros

Striking wild appearance with curled ears and bobbed tail — truly unique-looking
Confident, clownish personality — loves to entertain and interact
Gentle despite their large size — excellent with children and other pets
Optional polydactylism adds to their distinctive charm

Cons

Curled ears need regular cleaning and careful handling to avoid cartilage damage
Large size requires more food, larger litter boxes, and sturdier cat furniture
Relatively new breed — long-term health data is still being collected
Can be boisterous and may accidentally knock things over due to size and energy

Want a gentle giant with a wild side? Browse Highlander cats and other unique breeds on Puplister.

American Shorthair vs Highlander