Havana Brown
The Good
- Exceptionally friendly and affectionate with all family members
- Highly intelligent and trainable, even learning to walk on a leash
- Low shedding with minimal grooming requirements
- Social butterflies who get along brilliantly with children and other pets
The Real
- Cannot handle being left alone for extended periods
- Requires significant daily attention and interaction
- Extremely rare breed with limited availability in Australia
- Can become destructive when bored or lonely
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Havana Brown is Australia's chocolate treasure - a stunning cat with a coat the colour of rich mahogany and brilliant emerald eyes that'll steal your heart from across the room. Don't let the Cuban-inspired name fool you; these beauties actually hail from 1950s England, where dedicated breeders worked tirelessly to recreate the chocolate-coloured cats that had disappeared decades earlier.
What makes Havanas truly special isn't just their gorgeous looks - it's their personality that's often described as more dog-like than feline. These cats will follow you around your Brisbane apartment, greet visitors at the door of your Melbourne terrace, and even learn to play fetch on lazy Sunday afternoons. They're the perfect size for Australian living at around 4 kilograms, compact enough for inner-city apartments yet substantial enough to be a proper lap companion during those chilly Canberra winters.
From their Siamese heritage, they've inherited intelligence and sociability, but thankfully with a much softer voice. Their short, glossy coat is a dream in our climate - no matting issues during humid Gold Coast summers, and they're naturally active enough to keep themselves entertained while you're working from home. If you're looking for a cat that genuinely wants to be part of your daily life, the Havana Brown might just be your perfect match.
History
The Havana Brown's story begins in Victorian England, where solid brown cats with striking green eyes graced cat shows under various names, including "Swiss Mountain Cat." These chocolate beauties looked remarkably similar to Siamese cats, but their green eyes set them apart from their blue-eyed cousins. However, their golden era was short-lived.
In 1920, the Siamese Cat Club of Britain declared that only blue-eyed cats could be considered true Siamese, effectively banishing these chocolate gems to obscurity. For thirty years, the solid brown cats virtually disappeared from the breeding world, becoming nothing more than a memory in old cat fancy records.
The breed's resurrection came in the 1950s when a group of determined English breeders decided to recreate these lost chocolate cats. Through careful genetic research and strategic breeding programs involving black domestic shorthairs, chocolate-point Siamese, and Russian Blues, they achieved their goal. The breakthrough came when Praha Gypka, a solid brown male kitten, was born, followed by Elmtower Bronze Idol - the first cat officially registered as a Havana Brown and considered the breed's foundation.
The breed crossed the Atlantic to America in the 1960s, where it developed along slightly different lines. Today, we have two distinct variations: the more Oriental-type cats in Britain and the stockier, more moderate American style. Both share that distinctive chocolate coat and those mesmerising green eyes that make them instantly recognisable to cat lovers worldwide.
Traits & Characteristics
Havana Brown characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Havana Browns are among the healthiest purebred cats you'll find in Australia, with no specific genetic conditions plaguing the breed. This robust health makes them an excellent choice for first-time cat owners or families wanting peace of mind. However, like all cats, they can develop common feline health issues, so regular vet checkups remain essential.
Australian Seasonal Care Considerations:
During our scorching summer months when temperatures soar above 35°C in cities like Adelaide and Perth, ensure your Havana has access to air conditioning or cooling mats. Their short, dark coat can absorb heat, so provide plenty of fresh water and shaded areas. Watch for signs of overheating like excessive panting or lethargy - these cats aren't built for extreme heat.
In cooler regions like Tasmania or the Blue Mountains, winter heating becomes important. While their coat provides some insulation, indoor temperatures should stay above 18°C for optimal comfort. A warm bed near a heater or sunny window spot works perfectly.
Dental health requires particular attention, as periodontal disease affects many cats. Daily teeth brushing with cat-safe toothpaste prevents plaque buildup and expensive dental procedures down the track. Most Australian pet insurance policies cover dental cleanings when performed under anaesthesia every 1-2 years.
Weight management is crucial, especially for indoor cats in apartments. These intelligent cats can become bored eaters, leading to obesity and related issues like diabetes, arthritis, and urinary problems. Regular play sessions and puzzle feeders help maintain their ideal weight of 2.7-4.5 kilograms throughout their 10-15 year lifespan.
While remarkably robust, some lines may be susceptible to calcium oxalate urolithiasis (bladder stones) and are sometimes prone to upper respiratory infections as kittens. Ensuring they have consistent access to fresh water can help support urinary health. As always, a strong relationship with your vet for routine check-ups is the best way to keep your Havana Brown healthy and thriving.
Havana Browns are food enthusiasts who'll happily sample whatever you're offering, making portion control absolutely essential for maintaining their sleek physique. These intelligent cats benefit from scheduled meals rather than free-feeding, which helps prevent overeating and keeps them at their optimal weight range.
Choose high-quality cat food that meets nutritional standards appropriate for your cat's life stage. Adult Havanas typically thrive on two measured meals daily - morning and evening works well for most Australian households. The exact amount depends on your cat's age, activity level, and metabolism, but generally ranges from 60-80 grams of dry food or equivalent wet food daily for a 4-kilogram adult.
Their high intelligence makes them perfect candidates for puzzle feeders and food-dispensing toys. These enrichment tools serve double duty - preventing boredom while slowing down eating pace. This is particularly valuable for apartment-dwelling Havanas in Sydney or Melbourne who might otherwise become couch potatoes.
During Australia's hot summer months, consider serving wet food at room temperature rather than straight from the fridge, and ensure fresh water is always available. Some owners find their Havanas prefer running water from pet fountains, which encourages better hydration - crucial in our dry climate.
If your Havana shows signs of weight gain, consult your local vet for a tailored feeding plan. Many Australian veterinary clinics offer weight management programs that include regular weigh-ins and dietary adjustments. Remember, a lean Havana is a healthy Havana, and maintaining proper weight can add years to their already impressive 10-15 year lifespan.
If you're dreading hours of brushing and fur tumbleweeds rolling across your floors, the Havana Brown will be a pleasant surprise. These cats are remarkably low-maintenance when it comes to coat care, making them ideal for busy Australian families or first-time cat owners.
Their short, sleek coat requires only weekly brushing with a soft slicker brush or rubber curry brush to remove loose hairs and distribute natural oils. During spring and autumn shedding seasons, you might want to brush twice weekly, but even then, you're looking at maybe five minutes of grooming time. After brushing, many owners polish the coat with a chamois cloth for that extra glossy finish that makes the chocolate colour absolutely stunning.
Coat Specifications:
- Coat Length: Short to medium length with a smooth, glossy texture that lies close to the body
- Coat Colours: Rich, warm brown ranging from chocolate to mahogany, solid throughout with matching brown whiskers and nose leather
- Coat Patterns: Solid colour only, though kittens may show faint tabby "ghost" markings that fade with maturity
- Hypoallergenic: No, but minimal shedding makes them more tolerable for mild allergy sufferers
Daily dental care is the most important grooming task - brush those teeth with cat-safe toothpaste to prevent periodontal disease. Weekly nail trims and ear checks complete the routine, though their ears rarely need actual cleaning unless you notice debris or odour.
The best part? Havanas actually enjoy grooming sessions, often purring and head-butting the brush. This makes it a lovely bonding activity rather than a chore, whether you're in a compact Surry Hills apartment or sprawling Sunshine Coast home.
Here's where Havana Browns truly shine - their dog-like intelligence and eagerness to please make them among the most trainable cats you'll encounter. These clever felines can learn to walk on a leash, play fetch, solve puzzle toys, and even perform tricks that'll impress your dinner guests.
Start with basic puzzle feeders to challenge their sharp minds during meal times. Interactive toys that dispense treats reward problem-solving behaviour and prevent boredom-related mischief. Many Havana owners find their cats quickly master treat-dispensing balls and sliding puzzle toys that would stump other breeds.
Leash training is surprisingly successful with Havanas, making them perfect companions for exploring Melbourne's laneways or strolling through Brisbane's riverside parks. Begin indoors with a comfortable harness, letting them wear it for short periods while offering treats and praise. Once they're comfortable, add the leash and practice walking around your living room before venturing onto the balcony or into the garden.
Their social nature means they thrive on interactive play sessions. Feather wands, laser pointers (always end with a physical toy they can catch), and simple fetch games with small balls keep them mentally stimulated and physically active. Many Havanas will bring toys back to their owners repeatedly - just like a devoted pup.
Socialisation comes naturally to most Havanas, but exposing kittens to various household sounds, visitors, and experiences helps ensure they remain confident adults. This is particularly important for apartment living where they'll encounter delivery drivers, neighbours, and building maintenance workers regularly.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Havana Brown owner is someone who genuinely wants a feline best friend rather than an independent pet that occasionally graces them with attention. These cats suit households where someone is home most of the day - whether that's work-from-home professionals, retirees, or families with school-age children who provide afternoon companionship.
They're absolutely brilliant for first-time cat owners because of their forgiving nature and minimal grooming needs. Young couples in inner-city apartments from Sydney's Eastern Suburbs to Perth's Fremantle will find them ideal companions - compact enough for smaller spaces but engaging enough to provide entertainment during long winter evenings.
Families with children hit the jackpot with Havanas. These cats have endless patience for gentle handling and actually seek out interaction with kids. They're equally happy playing with toddlers or curled up with teenagers doing homework. However, they're not suitable for households where everyone works long hours or travels frequently for business.
Social butterflies who love entertaining will appreciate how Havanas welcome guests warmly rather than hiding under beds. They're conversation starters at dinner parties and genuinely enjoy meeting new people, making them perfect for gregarious owners who host regular gatherings.
Rental property tenants should note that most landlords view these quiet, clean cats favourably. Their minimal shedding and lack of destructive tendencies make them excellent choices for those navigating Australia's competitive rental market where pet-friendly properties are gold.
Interesting facts about the Havana Brown
Interesting Fact
The Havana Brown is the only cat breed that's completely brown from head to tail, including whiskers and nose leather
Interesting Fact
Their name likely comes from Havana cigars due to their rich tobacco-brown colour, despite having no Cuban origins
Interesting Fact
They use their paws more than most cats to communicate, gently patting their owners for attention
Interesting Fact
The breed nearly went extinct and remains one of the world's rarest cat breeds today
FAQ
Expect to pay between $800-$2,200 AUD for a Havana Brown kitten from a reputable breeder. Their rarity drives up costs, and you may need to join waiting lists or import from overseas breeders.
Absolutely! Their moderate size, quiet nature, and low shedding make them ideal apartment cats. They're perfect for Melbourne high-rises or Sydney harbour-side units, provided they get daily interaction and playtime.
They cope reasonably well but need air conditioning or cooling during extreme heat days above 35°C. Their short, dark coat can absorb heat, so ensure plenty of shade, fresh water, and cool indoor areas during summer.
Havana Browns are exceptional family cats with remarkable patience for children. They actively seek interaction with kids and rarely scratch or bite, making them perfect for families in suburbs from the Gold Coast to Canberra.
Weekly brushing is sufficient, taking just 5 minutes. During spring and autumn, bump it up to twice weekly. Their minimal grooming needs make them perfect for busy Australian families.
Yes, they're highly social cats who typically welcome other cats and dogs. Their friendly nature makes multi-pet households work beautifully, especially helpful if you work long hours.
Absolutely! Havanas are devoted lap cats who'll claim your favourite chair, follow you room to room, and insist on being involved in whatever you're doing - perfect for cosy nights watching Netflix.
Very limited. You'll likely need to contact specialty breeders, join waiting lists, or consider importing. Check with local cat shows or the Australian Cat Federation for breeder referrals.