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Havana Brown
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Physical Characteristics
- Coat: mahogany-toned glossy brown
- The coat is smooth, lustrous, close lying and feels like a mink
- Medium-sized body is firm and muscular
- Weight for males tends to be around 8 to 10 pounds and females around 6 to 8 pounds
- The distinctive head is slightly longer than it is wide
- Nose is prominent and broad
- Has pronounced whisker pinch and strong square chin
- Enticing green, oval-shaped eyes
- Forward-tilted ears
Temperament
- Charming, playful, affectionate, smart
- Soft, intimate voice
- People-oriented breed
Medical Conditions
- Healthy breed
- Needs boosters by 12 weeks old
- Annual vet visit for checkups is important
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- Does best indoors
- Needs sufficient scratching device
- Declawing is not recommended
- Kittens are available after 12-16 weeks
- Low maintenance
Grooming
- Trim nails regularly
Other Facts
- Was sometimes called 'Swiss Mountain Cat'
- The Havana Brown is a hybrid or man-made breed
- The name Havana Brown was used for the first time to describe the color genetics for self-browns
- Some theories postulate that the breed got its name after the rabbit of the same color
- Others believe that the breed name refers to the color of a fine Havana cigar
Breed History
- In the 1920s, the Siamese Cat Club of Britain discouraged the breeding of any 'but blue-eyed Siamese' and the breed was abandoned
- In the early 1950’s, a group of English breeders worked together to produce a self-brown cat
- The cats used were a black domestic and a seal or chocolate point Siamese
- The first Havana Brown was imported into North America in the mid 1950s
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Harrier Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit HCA Rescue
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