Havana Brown

The history of the Havana Brown is a tale of determined British breeders who sought to recreate the legendary “self-brown” cats. These solid-brown felines were first mentioned in the late 19th century but disappeared from cat shows in the early 20th century due to changes in the Siamese breed standard.

In the 1950s, a group of dedicated British enthusiasts—including Baroness Miranda von Ullmann of the Roofspringer cattery and Mrs. Anne Hargreaves of the Laurentide cattery—set out to revive this solid chocolate color in cats with an Oriental body type. They began a careful breeding program using:

• Siamese cats: These cats carried the chocolate-point gene (b) and had the desired elegant, Oriental body type.
• Black Domestic Shorthairs: These were used to introduce the gene for a solid, non-pointed coat.
• Russian Blues (likely): It is believed they were used to refine the breed’s type and possibly influence eye color.

The first kitten that perfectly met their goal was born in 1952 at the Roofspringer cattery. Named Elmtower Bronze Idol, this cat became the foundation for the new breed.

A debate arose over the breed’s name. Some suggested “Chestnut Brown Foreign,” while others championed “Havana.” The name “Havana” likely came from the rich, brown color of the tobacco used in famous Havana cigars, although some theorize it was named after the similarly colored Havana rabbit. In 1958, the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in the UK recognized the breed as the Chestnut Brown Foreign, but the name was later changed to Havana in 1970.

Development in the USA and Differing Standards

In the mid-1950s, the first Havanas were imported to the United States. American breeders were captivated, but their development path diverged from the British. This led to the creation of two different standards and, essentially, two distinct interpretations of the breed:

• UK and FIFe (Europe): The Havana is not considered a separate breed but rather one of the color variations of the Oriental Shorthair cat (a solid chocolate or lilac). These cats maintain the slender, graceful “Oriental” body type, similar to the Siamese.
• USA (CFA, TICA): The Havana Brown is recognized as a distinct, standalone breed with its own unique standard. American breeders focused on preserving and emphasizing specific traits, particularly a characteristic head and muzzle shape, and a warm, rich brown coat. The standard describes a more moderate, muscular body type (semi-foreign) than the Oriental. To maintain genetic diversity, limited outcrossing to black or blue Domestic Shorthairs or certain Oriental/Siamese cats was permitted, but with an emphasis on breeding back to the specific Havana Brown type.

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognized the Havana Brown breed in 1964. It’s important to remember that when people talk about the Havana Brown as a separate breed, they are usually referring to the American standard.

The American Havana Brown is a medium-sized cat that impresses with its elegance, muscular build, and, of course, its unique chocolate coat and expressive green eyes. The standard for the breed is quite specific, and its appearance is part of what makes it so special—you can see how it compares to other breeds like the Oriental Shorthair and the York Chocolate Cat.

1. Head: The head is slightly longer than it is wide and tapers to a rounded chin. The most distinguishing feature is the muzzle, which is quite long with well-developed whisker pads. There is a noticeable break or narrowing behind the pads, giving it a unique look often compared to a “corn cob muzzle” or a lightbulb. The profile has a distinct stop (a change in angle) from the forehead to the nose.
2. Ears: They are large, set wide apart, and have rounded tips that tilt slightly forward, giving an alert expression. They are covered in short fur.
3. Eyes: Oval in shape, medium-sized, and set relatively wide apart. The color is a vibrant, lively green. The more intense the shade, the better.
4. Body: The body is medium-long, sturdy, and muscular yet still elegant (a semi-foreign type). It is not as slender and elongated as a Siamese or Oriental but is not cobby either. The chest is well-developed.
5. Legs: The legs are relatively long and slender, proportionate to the body. The hind legs are slightly longer than the front. The paw pads are oval and compact. The color of the paw pads is a pinkish-tan.
6. Tail: The tail is medium in length, thin, not thick at the base, and tapers slightly to the tip. It should not be a whip-like tail.
7. Coat: The coat is short to medium length, smooth, glossy, and lies close to the body.
8. Color: The coat is a rich, warm brown that resembles milk chocolate or mahogany. The color should be even throughout the body. Kittens may have a faint tabby pattern (a “ghost tabby”), which should disappear with age. The whiskers must also be brown. The nose leather is brown with a rosy undertone.

Important Note: The CFA standard for the Havana Brown only recognizes the solid brown color. The lilac variant (a frosty gray with a pinkish undertone), while it exists genetically, is registered separately or is not allowed to compete for championship under the Havana Brown name.

Comparing Havana Standards

The Havana Brown is a cat with a big personality. They are known for their exceptional intelligence, deep affection for humans, and playful, inquisitive nature.

• People-Oriented: These are true “companion cats.” They love to be near their owners, following them from room to room and participating in every activity. They are often called “Velcro cats” because of their desire for constant contact.
• Affectionate and Gentle: Havanas love to be petted, cuddled, and sit on laps. They are generous with their purrs and gentle with their touches.
• Intelligent and Inquisitive: They are very smart cats that learn quickly. Their curiosity knows no bounds. A particularly famous trait is their habit of exploring objects with their front paws. They might gently tap a new object, reach out to touch their owner’s face for attention, or even try to “hold” things.
• Playful: Havanas remain playful throughout their lives. They love interactive games with their owners, chasing toys, and climbing cat trees. This is a great trait to have, and it can also be seen in other breeds like the German Rex and the Burmilla.
• Need for Attention: Because of their strong attachments, Havanas do not tolerate being alone well. Long periods without their humans can lead to stress, depression, and even health problems. This breed is best suited for people who spend a lot of time at home or are willing to get a second cat for company.
• Vocalization: Unlike their loud Siamese ancestors, Havanas have a rather soft, quiet voice. They vocalize when necessary, with gentle, charming sounds.
• Adaptability and Friendliness: They adapt well to apartment life, provided they get enough attention and opportunities for play. They are generally good with children and other pets, as long as they are properly socialized.

The Havana Brown is the perfect choice for anyone looking for more than just a beautiful cat—they’re a true friend and a devoted family member, ready to give and receive love.

The Havana Brown is generally considered to be a healthy breed. However, as with many purebred cats, there are certain health aspects to be aware of, especially given the breed’s relatively small gene pool in the USA.

• Genetic Diversity: Due to the limited number of founding cats in the US, inbreeding was a potential issue in the past. Today, responsible breeders work to expand the gene pool and maintain healthy lines.
• Stress-Induced Problems: As mentioned, Havanas are very sensitive to loneliness and lack of attention. Chronic stress can lead to a weakened immune system, loss of appetite, over-grooming, or other behavioral issues. Providing a stable, loving environment is key to their well-being.
• Urinary Stones: Some sources suggest a possible predisposition in Havanas to develop calcium oxalate stones in the bladder. It’s crucial to ensure they have adequate water intake (wet food, water fountains) and are on a high-quality diet that supports urinary tract health.
• Respiratory Infections: Kittens may be somewhat susceptible to upper respiratory infections.
• Dental Issues: Like many cats, Havanas can be prone to gingivitis and tartar buildup. Regular dental care is important.
• Sensitivity to Cold: Their short coat lacks a thick undercoat, making them sensitive to cold temperatures. They need a warm spot to sleep and rest, away from drafts.

The absence of described hereditary disease is not the absence of risk — breeding animals are screened all the same. Ask the breeder for the parents’ test results. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, a proper diet, and attentive care are the foundation of any cat’s health, including a Havana’s.

Caring for a Havana Brown doesn’t require a lot of effort, as their short, smooth coat is relatively low-maintenance.

• Coat Care: Weekly brushing with a soft brush or a rubber grooming mitt is enough to remove dead hair and distribute the skin’s natural oils. This helps keep the coat healthy and glossy. After brushing, you can wipe the coat with a piece of chamois or silk to enhance its natural sheen—a trick that truly works for their coat texture.
• Bathing: Bathing is rarely necessary unless they get very dirty.
• Dental Care: Regular dental care is very important. Brushing their teeth with a cat-specific toothpaste and brush a few times a week will help prevent plaque and tartar buildup and the development of gingivitis. If your cat primarily eats wet food, dental hygiene becomes even more critical.
• Nail Trims: Trim their claws every 2–3 weeks.
• Ear and Eye Care: Regularly check their ears for dirt or signs of infection. Their eyes are usually clean, but you can wipe away any natural discharge as needed.
• Warmth: Provide your cat with a warm and cozy place to sleep, away from drafts.

Their high intelligence and eagerness to interact make Havana Browns capable learners.

• Training and Play: They quickly learn commands and tricks, especially when using positive reinforcement methods like praise, play, and treats. They enjoy interactive toys, puzzle feeders, games of hide-and-seek, and fetch. Leash training is also possible for those who want to safely take their cat outdoors.
• Vocal Communication: While Havanas respond to their owner’s voice, it’s important to remember that, like all cats, they respond more to the tone of voice and familiar sounds than to the words themselves. Consistency and patience are key.
• Socialization: Early socialization is vital for developing their friendly nature. Introduce your kitten to different people, sounds, and other pets (under supervision).
• Stimulation: To satisfy their curiosity and intelligence, give your Havana a stimulating environment with plenty of toys, cat trees, and regular interaction.

Training is not just a way to teach a cat rules or tricks, but also a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the bond with your beloved pet.

To support the health, energy, and glossy coat of a Havana Brown, it’s essential to provide them with a high-quality and balanced diet.

• High-Quality Food: Choose super-premium or holistic-grade cat food (dry and/or wet) where meat is the primary ingredient. Their diet should be rich in animal protein.
• Balance: The food should be balanced in protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, appropriate for your cat’s age and activity level.
• Portion Control: Havanas can have a healthy appetite, so it’s important to feed them measured portions 2–3 times a day to avoid weight gain.
• Fresh Water: Always provide access to fresh, clean water. Some cats enjoy drinking fountains, which encourage them to drink more.
• Fish in the Diet: Feeding cats raw fish (especially freshwater) is not recommended due to the risk of parasites and the presence of the enzyme thiaminase in some fish, which destroys Vitamin B1. If you want to give your cat fish, it’s best to choose marine, low-fat, boneless fish that is thermally processed (boiled or steamed) and only as a small part of their diet, not as the main source of food. A high-quality commercial cat food already contains all the necessary nutrients.
• Natural Diet: If you prefer a raw or home-cooked diet, be sure to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to create a complete and balanced menu with the necessary vitamin and mineral supplements.

• A Mysterious Name: The exact origin of the name “Havana” is still debated—is it for the color of Havana cigars or for the Havana rabbit?
• “Chocolate Delight”: The Havana Brown is one of the few breeds where only one primary color—a rich, chocolate-brown—is recognized by the standard (in the USA).
• The Paw-Tapping Cat: A unique trait of Havanas is their active use of their front paws to explore objects and interact with people. They literally “feel” the world around them.
• Two “Havanans”: It’s important to remember the difference between the Havana Brown (a distinct breed in the USA with a moderate body type) and the Havana (the chocolate/lilac color of the Oriental cat in Europe with an Oriental body type).
• Green Eyes Are a Must: Bright green eyes are an essential part of the breed standard and create a stunning contrast with their warm brown coat.
• A Rare Gem: The Havana Brown remains a relatively rare breed, especially outside of North America.

Is the Havana Brown hypoallergenic? No. No cat breed is 100% hypoallergenic. While the Havana has a short coat, allergies are caused by a protein in their saliva and on their skin, not the fur itself.

How does the Havana Brown differ from the Oriental Shorthair and the York Chocolate Cat?

• From the Oriental Shorthair: The American Havana Brown has a more moderate body type (semi-foreign versus foreign/oriental), a unique muzzle shape (“corn cob muzzle”), and is recognized only in the brown (and sometimes lilac) color. Orientals have a wedge-shaped head and a huge palette of coat colors (including chocolate and lilac, which are called Havana in Europe).
• From the York Chocolate Cat: The York Chocolate Cat is a separate, newer breed developed in the USA. They also have a chocolate or lilac coat, but they typically have longer hair (semi-longhair) and a different body and head type compared to the Havana Brown.

Is the Havana Brown suitable for apartment living? Yes, the Havana adapts well to apartment life, provided they get enough attention, toys, climbing spots, and regular interaction with their owner. The main thing is not to leave them alone for long periods.

How vocal are Havana Browns? They love to communicate, but their voice is usually quiet and soft, not as loud and piercing as a Siamese cat’s.

Is it true that Havanas use their paws more than other cats? Yes, this is one of the breed’s characteristic traits. They actively use their front paws to explore objects, play, and even to get their owner’s attention by gently touching them.