From England, 1950s, from crosses of Siamese with black domestic shorthairs; the first kitten was born in 1952. The worklist notes foundation stock from Thailand via the Siamese.123
A medium, firm and muscular cat, sturdier than its Siamese ancestors. The glossy short coat is a warm mahogany brown, the whiskers are brown too, and the eyes are a vivid green. Its head is its signature: a rounded skull leading to a distinct muzzle with a clear break behind the whisker pads, famously likened to a corncob pushed into an orange.13
Coloursrich mahogany/chocolate brownlilac in some registrieseyes: vivid green123
Personality what they are like
The Havana Brown is a smart, curious and loving cat that likes to be close to its people. It often reaches out with a paw to touch or investigate, tends to greet visitors at the door rather than hide, and many form a particularly strong bond with one person.132
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate. Playful and interactive, yet also happy to entertain itself with a favourite toy.12
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Minimal. A soft brush or a wipe with a damp cloth once or twice a week, with an occasional rubber brush and chamois polish for shine. Baths are rarely needed.13
Home where they are happiest
Adapts well to indoor living given toys and company.12
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, balanced cat food in measured portions to keep it lean and well muscled.2
Company who they like around
People-oriented and does not like long periods alone; usually gets on well with other pets, and breeders often suggest keeping two.13
The story where it all began
Solid brown cats were known in Britain and Europe in the late 1800s but had faded out. After the Second World War, English breeders set out to recreate them by crossing Siamese with black shorthairs, and the first Havana Brown kitten arrived in 1952. The breed reached North America in the 1950s, where CFA accepted it in 1959 and granted championship status in 1964.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The name is usually linked to the colour of Havana cigars, though it may come from the Havana rabbit; the breed has no connection to Cuba.3
2
Havana Browns often use their paws to 'talk', reaching out to touch the people they love.1
Its head shape is often described as a corncob stuck into an orange.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed is nicknamed 'Brownies' after the helpful household spirit from Scottish folklore, which seems fitting given the cat's people-oriented and helpful nature. The name 'Havana' was adopted in 1970, likely referencing the rich brown color of Havana cigars.4
Famous ones stars of the breed
Roofspringer Mahogany Quinn The first Havana Brown imported to North America from England in the mid-1950s, forming the foundation for the breed in the USA.5
Quinn's Brown Satin of Sidlo The first Havana Brown to achieve Grand Champion status in CFA in 1959, and all North American Havana Browns trace their heritage to this cat.5
Elmtower Bronze Idol The first registered Havana, born from a seal point Siamese and a black shorthair, recognized by the GCCF in 1958.6
This morning I tapped my human's nose with a paw until she opened her eyes. Then I led her to the kitchen for her coffee. When the doorbell rang, I ran to greet the visitor, weaving between their legs. Later I batted my crinkly ball across the floor, then curled up in her lap for a nap. This evening I sat by the window, watching birds. Perfect day.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
CFA
Accepted for registration 1959; Championship status 19641
Brown cats are registered as the self chocolate Oriental Shorthair rather than a separate Havana Brown3
Popularity Very rare: Wikipedia reports only 15 registered USA-type Havana Brown catteries worldwide, mostly in North America3
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Havana Brown. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Havana Brown tip
Havana Browns have a hearty appetite and can easily overeat, so keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calories and use puzzle feeders to prevent boredom and overeating. Because dental disease is common, dental treats or chews can help support oral hygiene, but always ask your vet for the best options for your cat.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Havana Brown, and at what times?
Feed your Havana Brown a complete, balanced cat food in measured portions to keep it lean and well muscled. Times can vary with your routine, but two meals a day is common. Check the food label and ask your vet for the right amount for your cat.2
What should a Havana Brown eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A complete, balanced cat food is best. Dangerous foods include chocolate, coffee, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Never give alcohol, yeast dough, or raw meat and eggs. For a full list, check with your vet.27
Does a Havana Brown need baths?
Baths are rarely needed for a Havana Brown. A soft brush or a wipe with a damp cloth once or twice a week is usually enough. Bathe only if very dirty or sticky, as per general cat care guidance.138
How often does a Havana Brown need brushing?
Brush your Havana Brown once or twice a week with a soft brush or a damp cloth. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing. An occasional rubber brush and chamois polish can add shine.13Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Havana Brown's claws, and how often?
Trim claws every two to three weeks, as Furry Diary suggests. Start with no more than two claws per session. Use a proper cat nail trimmer and avoid the quick. Ask your vet or a groomer for a demo if needed.8Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Havana Brown need?
This smart, curious cat needs daily play. It is playful and interactive but also happy to entertain itself with a favorite toy. Furry Diary recommends daily play sessions to keep it happy.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Havana Brown's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily if possible, as Furry Diary suggests every two days as a start. For ears, check weekly and gently wipe with a damp cloth if needed. Ask your vet for proper techniques. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Havana Brown live?
A Havana Brown typically lives 8 to 13 years. With good care, regular vet checkups, and a healthy diet, it can enjoy a long, happy life.2
Is a Havana Brown good with children and other pets?
Yes, this people-oriented cat usually gets on well with other pets and children. It is smart, curious, and loving, often greeting visitors at the door. Breeders often suggest keeping two for company.13
Can a Havana Brown be left alone?
This cat does not like long periods alone, as it is very people-oriented. If you are away often, consider a companion pet or ask a good breeder for advice. Furry Diary notes it adapts well to indoor living with toys and company.132
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Oriental Shorthair
Siamese
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