Havana Brown

Contrary to their name, Havana Brown cats don’t come from Cuba. Instead, they’re a special mix of color-point Siamese, black domestic shorthair, and Russian Blue. Both rare in terms of color and occurrence, Havana Browns are the only cat breed to boast a chocolate-colored coat from head to tail. Even their whiskers are cocoa-colored. 

Havana Browns don’t get much bigger than about 10 pounds and 8 or 9 inches tall. However, their medium-sized stature doesn’t stop them from expressing a big personality, which some say is more like a doting puppy than a feline.

Caring for a Havana Brown

Havana Browns are striking cats with a wedge-shaped head, bright green eyes, and large, upright ears. These cats are loyal and affectionate; they thrive on spending time with their loved ones. Their insatiable curiosity and need for indoor stimulation mean that they’re also happiest living with pet parents who have the time for lots of interactive play.

If you have your sights set on one (or a pair), be prepared to pay $500–$1,500 per kitty from a reputable Havana Brown breeder.

Havana Brown Health Issues

Opting for a healthy cat breed with few known genetic health conditions provides peace of mind and can result in fewer vet visits. Domestic long-haired and short-haired cats are typically recognized as the healthiest cat breeds, due to reduced inbreeding.

But there are purebred cats that are also some of the healthiest breeds, and the chocolate Havana Brown is one of these.

However, even the healthiest cat breeds can be susceptible to common feline conditions, so purchasing pet insurance for your Havana Brown kitten is still worth consideration. Here are some of the most common issues pet parents should watch for.

Dental Disease

Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as dental disease, is a common problem in cats. Just like in humans, feline dental disease starts when food residue builds up on and between teeth, which then hardens into plaque. This plaque can lead to gum infections, which can be painful and potentially escalate into more serious problems.

The most effective methods of preventing oral disease are brushing your cat’s teeth with cat-safe toothpaste and having regular veterinary checkups. While the frequency of professional dental cleanings varies, feline dental cleanings under anesthesia are generally recommended every one to two years.

Obesity

Havana cats are sleek and slim with a toned, muscular physique. However, like all cats, they are at risk of weight gain and obesity. Carrying excess weight can lead to several health problems, including:

• Diabetes

• Urinary disease

• Arthritis

• Decreased life expectancy

Maintaining an appropriate diet and exercise routine is essential for keeping your Havana cat at their ideal weight.

What To Feed a Havana Brown

There are many types of cat food on the market, and it can be difficult to choose the right one for your Havana Brown. If your cat has any specific medical concerns, talk to your veterinarian about the best food to feed them.

Otherwise, choose a food that meets the nutritional recommendations of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for your cat’s life stage (kitten, adult, or senior).

How To Feed a Havana Brown

Havana Brown cats are highly intelligent, so they need plenty of stimulating activities to keep them happy and healthy. Incorporating feeder puzzles can challenge your inquisitive cat, help prevent boredom, and prevent overeating.

Instead of free-feeding your cat, provide scheduled meals two to three times a day.

How Much Should You Feed a Havana Brown?

Your cat food packaging will have guidelines on how much to feed your cat based on their weight. However, it’s always best to talk to your veterinarian to establish proper portions. They can offer feeding recommendations tailored to your Havana’s health, age, and lifestyle.

Nutritional Tips for Havana Browns

Purchasing cat food that meets the AAFCO nutritional recommendations ensures the food is complete and balanced with all the nutrients your cat needs for their life stage. Nevertheless, your veterinarian may recommend food with certain additives or adding supplements to your cat’s diet, depending on their health and individual needs.

Behavior and Training Tips for Havana Brown Cats

Havana Brown Personality and Temperament 

Havana Browns are lively cats who enjoy human companionship, even if you’ve just met! Often described as puppy-like, you can trust that your Havana cat wants to be a part of whatever you are doing, whether it’s playing fetch, going for a walk, or sitting in your lap.

They’re generally adaptable to new situations and tend to have a friendly demeanor toward people and other animals. With plenty of stimulation such as cat trees and towers, Havana Browns are suitable for apartment living.

Havana Brown Behavior

Havana Browns are curious cats who use their paws to communicate. They will gently bat at your clothes or hair, especially if they’re not getting enough daily exercise or stimulation. Unlike some other breeds known for their vocalizations (including their Siamese cousins), Havana Browns have a soft meow, only adding to their gentle disposition.

Havana Brown Training

Havana cats are as curious as they are smart. They’re also eager to please their people. With this stellar combination of traits, training a Havana Brown can be fun for everybody. And with a bit of patience and positive reinforcement, you can teach your Havana Brown cat all sorts of tricks.

Fun Activities for Havana Browns

• Playing fetch

• Solving a food puzzle

• Learning new tricks

• Walking on a leash and harness

• Cuddling

• Exploring new surroundings

• Playing with housemates 

Havana Brown Grooming Guide

If you are looking for a low-maintenance cat, the chocolate-colored Havana is an excellent choice. The biggest part of their upkeep is their teeth, which need to be brushed daily to prevent dental disease, just like any other cat.

Skin Care

No special care here! Havanas are known for their sleek coat, which they regularly groom themselves. However, overweight cats or those with mobility issues may need some help washing up. If this is the case, wipe your Havana down with a damp cloth once a week or as needed.

Coat Care

The coat of the Havana Brown is short, smooth, and glossy. Typically described as rich chocolate or mahogany brown, Havana cats shed very little. However, they should still be brushed about once a week to remove any loose hair and to distribute their natural oils.

Eye Care

The bright green eyes of a Havana cat should be clear and alert. Any changes in your cat’s eyes, such as redness, discharge, or apparent changes in vision, should be discussed with your veterinarian.

Ear Care

Havana Brown cats have large, upright ears. Pet parents should monitor their cat’s ears for redness, debris, or odor, which can be signs of an ear infection. However, their ears and ear canals don’t require routine cleaning.

Considerations for Pet Parents

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance cat with a long lifespan, the Havana Brown may be a good choice for you. They’re curious, family-oriented, and intelligent with a striking appearance. Havana Browns have a sleek, chocolate brown or rich mahogany coat and bright green eyes.

To ensure many years with your cuddly companion, make sure your Havana Brown is seen by a veterinarian for regular checkups, maintains a healthy weight, and receives proper dental care. The busy bee of cat breeds, Havana cats enjoy playing, investigating, and socializing, so providing them with lots of attention and stimulating activities is important.