Havana Cat, Brown As Tobacco And Coffee

Although its name may indicate that its place of origin is Cuba, what is certain is that this feline is a ‘mix’ of several breeds. He likes to play, to be pampered and will not hesitate to ask if he doesn’t get the attention he needs.

Elegance, green eyes and a reddish brown, short and smooth robe are the hallmarks of the Havana Cat. But does not stop there. It is an intelligent, loving, gentle kitten who loves to play with the human members of her family.

A Caribbean name, but of English origin

The name of the breed can be confusing, as  these animals have their origins in phlegmatic England and not in the Caribbean island of Cuba. But that’s how he was named, because his color reminds us of the mythical cigars of Cuba.

Although the mahogany fur of this feline is not only a reference to tobacco, it is also reminiscent of chocolate and coffee. In any case, it is a beautiful animal resulting from a crossing carried out by English breeders, in the middle of the last century.

To reach the Havana cat, specimens of Siamese chocolate point and seal point felines, common short-haired blacks and Russian blue cats, were used. Afterwards, the breed gained recognition in the United Kingdom and crossed the Atlantic to reach the United States.

Currently,  breed standards differ between English and American. The first ones lean towards a more oriental aspect of this kitten. The latter prefer features more related to the Russian blue cat.

Physical characteristics of the Havana cat

In addition to its   typical chocolate color, the breed also admits lilac. Other characteristics of the Havana cat are :

• Body: muscular and flexible
• Average size
• Weight: between 2.5 and 5 kg. Males are bigger than females
• Head : Longer than wide (wedge-shaped) and with a well-developed chin that is quite square

• Eyes: oval, set apart, bright, intelligent and mischievous
• Ears : Large, broad base and triangular in shape, but rounded at the tips. They are upright, apart from one another and leaning forward, as if they are always on the alert. Inside, they are pink.
• Nose: short and angled
• Neck: muscular, long and cylindrical
• Feet : Strong and elongated. The backs are longer than the fronts
• Tail: long and cylindrical, taper at the tip
• Coat: short, dense and shiny

A cute, active and smart kitten

Curious, happy and playful, the Havana cat wants attention and affection. And if you don’t, you’ll see how he will treat you.

It is an animal that adapts without difficulty to different situations. And, despite being a very active kitten, it can live peacefully inside a  house.

Extroverted and self-confident, he is a feline who prefers to bond privately with one of the human family members. Are you the lucky one?

How to Care for a Havana Cat

The Havana cat is generally a healthy and strong animal, with a life expectancy of between 10 and 15 years. Anyway, it can be affected by:

• Colds (keep it away from the cold and excessive humidity)
• Lung and respiratory problems
• internal parasites

Also,  a weekly brushing is enough to keep your short hair in good condition  and always shiny. Likewise, it is necessary for the kitten to exercise daily so that, in addition to keeping his muscles in shape, he takes advantage of the opportunity to do what he loves so much: play.