Havana Brown cat is a fairish-sized and muscular cat, with a rich, solid tobacco-brown coat, providing it with its stunning appearance. Add its expressive green eyes, unique muzzle shape, and sizable forward-set ear, this feline is a breed of fascinating rarity. It also has a playful, charming, and outgoing personality, and often deemed as the puppy of the cat world, making it an adorable companion to many types of homes.
Origin of the Havana Brown Cat
The root of the Havana Brown cat’s name is shrouded with mystery. There are many theories about its origin, with one deeming it was derived from the Havana cigars’ color.
However, the Havana Brown cat did not originate in Cuba. A chocolate kitten was born in England in 1952 and was named as Elmtower Bronze Idol. The self-brown litter was considered to be the first kitten of the breed. A year later, four Havana Brown males were born.
It is believed that Elmtower was a man-made breed, crossing the Siamese with other breeds, such as the Russian Blues and the domestic shorthair. In 1964, the Cat Fanciers’ Association fully recognized the breed and is now accepted by all other major cat associations.
Physical Characteristics of the Havana Brown Cat
- Length: 12 to 15 inches
- Weight: 8 to 10 pounds (Males), 6 to 8 pounds (Females)
- Life Expectancy: 8 to 13 years
- Coat Color: Brown
- Type of Coat: Short, Medium
- Eye Color: Green
While its roots trace mostly from the Siamese cat, the Havanas are a medium-sized cat, with a wedge-shaped head, unique muzzle, pink paws, and a tubular body that resembles the Oriental breeds. Also called as brownies, they are renowned for the lustrous chocolate-brown coat, accentuated by their striking, expressive green eyes. Adding their wide-set forward-angled ears, these felines always seemingly sport an alert or keen look.
Havana Brown Cat Personality
Havana Brownies’ looks are undeniably distinct, but so as their personality. This cat breed is gentle, affectionate, highly intelligent, but sans the vocal demeanor of their Siamese ancestors. They are sturdy and adaptable and would adjust to any home and situation with grace and conviction.
As a people-oriented breed, Havanas need human interaction to have long, happy, and healthy lives, making them unfit for owners wanting a laidback companion. These felines always want to spend time with their masters, and get involved with whatever task they do. They can be seen touching and reaching out to their favorite person, poking him or her with outstretched pink paws to demand attention.
With their smarts, Havanas would also love to play, especially interactive toys, that would ensure their owners’ focus on them. They love to fetch, and may sometimes carry stray objects and toys in their mounts, even outside the game. If something small and easy-to-carry is missing around the house, chances are the stuff found their way in the Brownies’ beds.
Generally, Havana Brown cats are well-behaved with an amiable disposition. They can be great friends to toddlers that would treat them with respect. He is also amenable to live with other cat-friendly pets and uniquely greet them, hiding behind furniture or wall, and smacking the unwary passerby before hurtling away.
Caring for the Havana Brown Cat
Havana Browns’ lustrous coat does not shed much, which only requires weekly brushing to keep it shiny and healthy. They are a relatively less-maintenance breed, and the only other grooming routines it needs are ear cleaning, nail trimming, and teeth brushing.
Teeth brushing must be done frequently, typically every week, using vet-approved toothpaste to prevent periodontal disease and promote their overall dental health. Meanwhile, ear cleaning should also be performed weekly while nail trimming can be done only when necessary. It is advisable to acquaint these kitties to these grooming activities at a young age for them easier times later on.
As playful human-oriented cats, they would love to play with their owners. Getting playthings such as dangling toys, balls, and puzzles are suitable investments to keep them amused and stimulate their intelligent minds. However, their inclination to people has a down-side, as they can be morose when left alone. Thus, it is best to have someone accompany them most of the time.
Havana Browns are generally healthy but may be vulnerable to calcium oxalate stone build-ups in their urinary tract. As with other cats, obesity is also a common problem, which is why providing them with enough exercise and ample nutrition is a must to keep them in their appropriate weight. They are naturally slender and muscled and should be kept that way.
Havana Browns are perfect for owners looking for social and amusing feline companions. They will be an unforgettable addition to many families and homes.