Havana Brown is a unique cat breed that is now considered rare. In the ranking of endangered felines, they occupy the first position. But as pets, they are ideal. They are liked not only by their non-standard appearance, but also by their intelligence, friendliness and other character traits. They are also called oriental cats because of their resemblance to these animals. They will be discussed in the article.
Havana brown
Origin
These representatives come from England. Their ancestors are Siamese with a uniform brown coat color. Only they lost popularity after the approval of the standard, according to which the color should be colorpoint.
Havanas first appeared in America before their official recognition - in the 50s. last century. Then the development of the breed proceeded ambiguously in different countries. The British continued to crossbreed Havanas with Siamese for some time, trying to improve the animals. But the Americans strictly controlled the selection, preventing the entry of foreign blood. Therefore, at first, the Havanas from England and America were clearly different.
Baroness Miranda von Ullmann was actively breeding the breed. She crossed black short-haired representatives with Siamese individuals. As a result of nine years of tireless work, success was achieved. In 1959, the breed was registered under the name “brown shorthair” and was first presented at an exhibition show.
Then they began to make attempts to crossbreed with colored orientals. This was a necessary measure, since there were few harbors and thus they sought to increase them. The result was cats of a different breed – oriental.
Story
Like most famous breeds, the Havana Brown's homeland is Thailand. The cat left traces of its existence and was recorded in the book “Poem about Cats” and reproduced in the form of sketches on pages between 1350-1767. They have a beautiful solid coat color and clear green-blue eyes. There is an opinion that it was the color that gave rise to the name of the breed, since the resemblance to the famous cigar is obvious. Information about brown animals dates back to 1800, but the English deserved the right to be considered the discoverers of the breed. By crossing chocolate Siamese, seal point and domestic black shorthair cats, we managed to achieve the desired, stunning effect.
The breed was registered in 1958, therefore, England is rightly considered the homeland of the Havana. During this period of time, some of the cats were exported to America for improvement and breeding. The genetics were disrupted by the dilution of the English breed by others, and this affected the shade, but the USA managed to maintain the original color. This led to the division into chestnut orientals (different shades of brown) and havana browns.
Asian tabby - description of the breed and character of the cat
Standards and appearance
The breed has a CFA approved standard. According to the system of this organization, cats taking part in exhibition shows are assigned a specific title. It is determined depending on a number of factors: age, color and other physical parameters of the competitor. On the basis of which the owner is issued an appropriate certificate.
Breed standard
Description of the breed, according to the international classification:
| Body parts | a brief description of |
| Limbs | Slender, rather long, muscular. The hind ones are slightly longer than the front ones. They are more graceful in cats than in cats. |
| Tail | Medium length, gradually tapering towards the tip. |
| Head | Oblong-elongated, with a clearly defined chin of square outline. The muzzle is narrowed. In adult males, the cheekbones and cheeks are very prominent. A slight bend is noticeable along the line of the nose and forehead. The surprising thing is that the mustache is chocolate or lilac in tone (combining with the color of the coat). |
| Ears | Large ones, located far from each other. Slightly tilted forward. Therefore, it seems that the cat is in a wary state. The inside of the shells is filled with soft fluff. |
| Nose | It has a brownish-pink pad. Its line runs almost at right angles to the chin. |
| Eyes | Almond-shaped, small in size. The color allowed by the standard is all shades of green. |
| Frame | Tight and dense, with well-developed muscles. Cats are usually bigger than cats. |
| Wool | Soft and silky to the touch. Hair length – short or medium. Has a uniform color. |
Dimensions and weight
Sexually mature Havanas weigh about 6-7 kg. The cat's build is an order of magnitude larger than females by 3-4 kg. Despite their apparent lightness, the animals are quite dense and muscular in build.
Anatomical characteristics
Representatives of the breed are distinguished by incredible grace. They have a firm tread, but the animals cannot be called small. Outwardly, cats charm, especially with their expressive emerald eyes. And the coat shimmers in the sun.
One of the characteristics of the breed is a wedge-shaped muzzle with a blunt chin. Because of this, she is associated with the cob of corn. These are the only representatives of cats whose whiskers match the color of their coat.
Features of color
Cats have a characteristic rich brown coat (which is why the name of the breed contains the prefix “brown”). There are different shades. The tone of the cover is uniform and shines when exposed to sunlight. A purple color with a grayish inclusion is acceptable.
Kittens often have a subtle tabby pattern. As the kids grow up, it disappears.
However, the standard also provides for a number of other colors:
- chocolate (Havana);
- light brown (cinnamon);
- brindle;
- blue;
- beige (faun);
- red;
- black;
- marble;
- ticked;
- snow-white (rare);
- tabby
Description
The standard Havana Brown body type is a medium-sized torso with a fairly developed muscle structure. The difference from other breeds is the unusual shape of the head, thick hair with a pronounced milk or dark chocolate color, expressive eyes with a characteristic shine, and large ears tilted forward.
And now more about the body parts of the Havana cat:
- Head. It is somewhat extended forward, which can be seen when viewed from above. The upper part tapers towards the muzzle with a slight rounding and a pronounced whisker break. The whisker break (the depression between the cheekbones and whisker pads) and the rounded muzzle are distinctive features of this breed. In the profile direction, the stop in the eye area is visible. And the shape of the muzzle at the end has a square appearance, this is manifested due to the well-developed chin of cats. A representative with an ideal physique has a nose line perpendicular to the line from the tip of the chin to the nose. The cheeks and cheekbones of cats are better developed than those of cats.
- Neck. It is of medium length and proportional to the body.
- Frame. Medium size with strong and well-developed muscles. Males have slightly more than cats. In general, the body type is of the average type between light and heavy squat. In the breed, gracefulness and proportionality are more important than the size of the body.
- Limbs. For moderately proportioned animals, the position of the limbs is quite high. The front legs are thin and straight in cats and large and muscular in cats. The hind legs are slightly longer, and the feet have a neat oval shape.
- Ears. Unusually large in size compared to other breeds. The tips are rounded, and at the base they take the shape of a cup. The ears are tilted forward, set wide apart without much emphasis, which gives some alertness. The inside and outside are covered with short hair.
- Eyes. Medium in size, oval in shape and set wide apart. Cats have a deep, expressive and attentive gaze. Eye color can have any green shade with an unusual shine, while the quality of the breed is characterized by the depth and richness of the color.
- Tail. It has an average length proportional to the body. It is wider at the base and thins towards a pointed tip. Not a whip type.
- Wool. It is quite soft and has a glossy shine. The length varies from short to medium for short-haired breeds. Representatives of the Havana breed have a warm brown hue, which is closer to brown-red. It is possible for a tabby pattern to appear in both young animals and adults. The pads on the soles of the feet are a uniform pink color. The nose is brown with a hint of pink.
Havana Brown cats are disqualified for such violations as: discrepancy in the color of the paws, nose and whiskers, lack of green eyes, the appearance of spots and a medallion on the body, as well as a broken tail.
Character
Affectionate and gentle creatures
Cats of this breed are characterized by increased playfulness and curiosity. They become strongly attached to people and need constant attention and care from them. Communication with the owner and members of his family is a vital need for them. Havanas quickly adapt to any conditions and situations. They get along without problems with other pets in the house and even “grumpy” dogs.
Non-standard behavior is manifested in everything. Due to its excessive curiosity and activity, be prepared that your pet will try to take part in all household chores. All hidden corners will definitely be explored. Havana can be found in the most unexpected places - in the laundry box, pantry or in a bag brought from the store. At the same time, the animal does not particularly impose itself, because it is a self-sufficient person.
Due to their natural intelligence and nobility, Havanas behave in an appropriate manner. These cats will never mess up or mark their territory. On the contrary, they prefer cleanliness and order: they eat and go to the toilet in strictly designated places. So there will be no problems with litter training.
One of the features is a love of heights. They constantly climb to higher places and spend a long time watching what is happening around them. Also, they are able to sit on the windowsill for hours and watch the movement outside.
Havanas are good-natured and affectionate by nature. They show their love more strongly to the owner, they can even stroke him with their paw. By the way, they release their claws only when necessary. So, in order to better examine any find, they grab it with their claws, bring it to their muzzle and smell it. But, they are overly touchy, which is worth remembering. They will not immediately show that they are offended and will demonstratively act indifferent. But they remember the insult and suffer inside.
Features of behavior
The Havana is a fairly intelligent and very curious animal. Cats, as a rule, hide from guests, but the Havana, on the contrary, rushes to meet them with all its paws, overtaking the whole family. Havana will not only happily sit quietly in your arms, there are “specimens” that need to climb onto your shoulders. Particularly active pussies will always get under your feet, controlling all your actions: this cat needs to know everything, to participate in all matters.
Havana is playful and sociable, but she is not one of those cats that, if they just stay “on the farm”, will create bedlam at home.
She is attached to her family, however, she will not suffer if she is left alone for a long time. In addition, these cats, according to the owners, tolerate travel very well, during which they behave very calmly and obediently, and are not afraid.
An interesting feature: the Havana often uses tactile contact to communicate. She puts her paws on her owner's leg and starts meowing.
This is how she tries to attract attention
Health and characteristic diseases
Handsome Brown
Overall, the Havana Brown can boast of excellent health. These representatives are endowed with strong immunity from birth and are not predisposed to genetic diseases. But they also tend to periodically suffer from some infectious feline diseases. Typically, health problems appear at a young age.
Havanas have adopted a number of diseases from the Siamese:
- kidney pathologies;
- disorders in the respiratory system;
- inflammation of the oral mucosa;
- heart failure.
In order for your pet to live as long as possible, it is recommended to visit the veterinarian more often for follow-up examinations and to vaccinate on time.
Care and maintenance
Shorthaired Havanas require minimal care. The main thing is to plan your diet correctly and not neglect basic hygiene procedures.
Good care is the key to a happy pet's life
Ears
Ears should be cleaned at least 2 times every 7-8 days. This is done using cotton swabs. The main thing is not to damage the sink. Therefore, for the safety of the animal, the procedure is carried out with some precautions:
- in the evening, when the cat is tired and not so active (will not resist much);
- fix the animal’s head in any convenient way (for example, wrap the cat in a blanket).
Wool
The fur should be combed as often as possible, especially during the molting period. The animal likes such an event and there is no resistance. Even if you don’t have enough time, you need to find a few minutes 2-3 times a week to pay attention to your pet’s fur.
Claws
Claws are trimmed as they grow. Use special forceps (sold at a veterinary pharmacy or pet store). You can also buy silicone claw covers there. By wearing them, you can be sure that the furniture in the house will not be damaged. Another solution to the problem is to install a scratching post.
Bathing
Frequent water procedures are contraindicated, since they do not particularly like them. Wash your cat as it gets dirty - 3 times a month is enough for prevention. If the cat is constantly in the house and does not go outside, one bath every six months is enough.
It is important to choose the right shampoo. It should suit your coat type. Otherwise, damage to the coat (wool and skin) is inevitable: fading of color, hair loss, itching and flaking of the skin.
Teeth
The condition of teeth is primarily affected by nutrition. Therefore, to maintain their health, in addition to dry food, you need to give your pet chewing dental toys. Feed mixtures must be premium.
Havanas are prone to plaque and tartar buildup. Bleeding from the gums also occurs. If there is an unpleasant odor coming from the animal's mouth, there is a problem with the teeth. You need to visit a doctor for treatment.
At home, brush your pet's teeth once a week.
Eyes
Every day, do not forget to clean the cat’s eyes from accumulated dirt. Simply remove it from the corners with a cotton swab dipped in boiled water. If your pet experiences watery eyes due to dust or for any other reason, wash the eyes with weak tea leaves.
Nutrition
The appearance and general well-being of a cat depends on properly organized nutrition. Havana is not particularly picky about food, but breeders advise feeding it with special industrial feed of the highest quality. They do not contain harmful additives: dyes, fragrances, preservatives. It is better to alternate dry and wet food.
If the owner decides to feed the pet natural products, then there should be more meat (lean) in the diet.
You should not give cats bony fish, smoked meats, sweets, pickles, sausages, or food from the owner’s table.
Recommended food
The photo below shows a range of recommended premium feed mixtures. Before purchasing, it is advisable to read owner reviews about the selected food.
Premium feed
Havanas eat the following brands of food well:
- Brit Care;
- Farmina;
- Daily Cat;
- Gina Elit;
- Arden Grange.
It is worth noting that Havanas are prone to overeating. Therefore, they should be fed in small portions, enough to satiate them. You can count calories and create a feeding schedule - this will prevent your pet from becoming overweight.
Vaccinations
To protect against common infectious and viral diseases, appropriate vaccinations will be provided, which should be given to your pet according to the established plan. A kitten is vaccinated for the first time at the age of 8 weeks. After 38 days, the procedure is repeated, but a rabies vaccination is added.
After this, Havan is vaccinated once a year. Anthelmintic treatment is needed every 12 months. For fleas and lice, special drops and shampoos are used. For walking outside, buy a protective collar.
Diet
The diet of the Havana breed is not much different from the usual cat menu. The chocolate predator needs a balanced diet and vitamin supplements. She is unpretentious in food.
The appearance and health of the animal depends on the diet, so breeders recommend feeding the Havana with specialized super-premium food. This menu is balanced and includes all the elements a predator needs.
It is not recommended to feed your cat exclusively dry food. It is advisable to use food in the form of wet canned food. To prevent your cat from overeating, it is recommended to accustom it to a certain brand of food and give it only specific lines. This is relevant for super-premium food, the varieties of which are rarely enriched with a rich aroma that attracts a cat, due to the absence of artificial flavors and fragrances.
Obedient pet
If the owner chooses natural food for the pet, the content of meat products in the menu should be at least 70%.
A healthy Havana adult does not need special calorie counting. The breed has a normal appetite, but does not like to overeat. The exception will be sterilized pets, whose weight the owner will have to carefully monitor to prevent cat obesity.
In addition to nutritious food, Havana will need clean drinking water. Oddities in the character of the breed will also manifest themselves in the manner of quenching thirst. Do not worry if the animal decides to drink from the palms of its hands, scooping up water with its paw.
Recommendations from nutritionists for feeding cats
How to choose a Havana kitten
Sweet Havanas
Compared to other breeds, this one is quite expensive due to its rarity. The price of kittens depends on their quality, but on average it is 75-80 thousand rubles. If the specimen is perfect in all respects, the cat will cost much more.
You should buy kittens from specialized nurseries, although there are not many of them. You can contact clubs registered with felinological organizations. They first check the availability of appropriate documentation confirming that the baby belongs to the breed. It would be useful to get to know the parents and the conditions of detention.
You should not separate a kitten from its mother before it is 3 months old. By this age, they have time to develop strong immunity, they receive all vaccinations on schedule and already know how to feed themselves.
When examining your pet, pay attention to the following points:
- A purebred representative may have spots on the coat, stripes or rings on the tail. Elusive patterns that gradually self-destruct are also possible.
- A healthy kitten should be active and friendly. Expression of aggression is unacceptable.
- There should be no dirty discharge near the eyes and nose.
Mixed breeds obtained as a result of mating of interbreed individuals are not considered defective. They are allowed to reproduce.
Photo of the Havana Brown breed
Formidable but not dangerous
Havanese are interested in everything that happens around them
Comfortable to sit on the owner's shoulder
Truly an important person
Fit for royalty
Apparently tired, lay down to rest
Nature
Havana requires human presence to be vital. These cats get along well even with small children. No conflicts with other animals. Cats are both active and playful. Such cats even love to talk with people, but at the same time they express themselves unobtrusively, and sometimes even flirtatiously.
Havana prefers to sit on top. It is not surprising if she tries to follow you throughout your living space, although she prefers to climb only the highest points.
Interesting Facts
You can tell a lot of interesting things about this breed. Here are some fun facts:
- Havanas are suitable for people prone to allergies to cat hair. Due to the short coat and rare shedding, there will be no health problems.
- Oriental cats are widely called “rainbow”. This is because they come in multiple colors.
- Due to the lack of undercoat, cats cannot tolerate low air temperatures. Therefore, they must be protected from drafts and not allowed outside in winter.
- With good care they can live up to 20 years. Because of this, they are considered to be long-livers.
- They are remarkable for drinking water from a bowl. Sometimes they start scooping it up with their paw and bringing it to their mouth.
- In the absence of attention from the owner, they begin to meow loudly and show their displeasure in every possible way.
- Sometimes Havanas get jealous. This applies not only to family members, but also to a specific place or object.
- Cross-eyed Havanas are sometimes found. Such a phenomenon is not acceptable according to the standard and is listed as a defect.
- Havana cats rarely use their claws. Therefore, they will be the best friends for children.
- There is a version that Havanas are telepaths - their intuition and sensitivity are so highly developed, which is unusual for other representatives of the cat family.
- They often begin to copy the behavior of their owner. Therefore, many cats begin to go to the toilet in a human way - on the toilet.
Socialization of a pet
Along with predatory habits comes irrepressible activity. The cat does not know how to sit still and does not like to sit still. Her life is movement. And the faster it is, the more comfortable it is. She is inventive and clever in games. Loves to play with children. When playing, she is careful and not malicious. He does not use claws on children, and in case of danger, he is prudently removed.
A cat needs a companion, so it is better to get a breed for those who are often at home. It is not recommended to leave Havana alone. Having lost her friends, she falls into deep despondency, loses her appetite and the meaning of her existence.
It is not recommended to leave Havana alone
If the owner is forced to go away, it is better to have two cats at once. In this case, only a companion of the same breed is suitable for Havana.
Sociable pets
If necessary, she will get along with other pets. Havana is able to become friends even with a dog. The main thing is that the roommate is not in the category of potential dinner, otherwise predatory genes will sooner or later play their role.
An outstanding trait of the breed is talkativeness. Havana loves to chat and verbalize everything she sees. Her meowing is unobtrusive. The cat prefers to drown hearts not with volume, but with melody. In moments of joy, I don’t mind purring.
Among household members, he prefers not to choose a favorite, but to love everyone indiscriminately. She is affectionate and even capable of being cunning in order to earn a little attention.
He treats the rules in the house with respect, but he cannot tame his habits. So, the pet loves to use its paws, so it will definitely touch all the objects in the house with them. The animal loves to lightly touch things, often knocking over vases and cups.
Havana kitten
Raising a cat is not difficult. It is enough to communicate with her and give commands in a confident tone. Havana won't argue. She is ready to obey in any situation.
Nurseries
There are few nurseries in Russia that breed the Havana Brown breed. Here are the ones you can contact:
- Magic Grace – Moscow;
- De Fides, De Fides, Ru Higashi – St. Petersburg;
- Elven Kingdom - Novosibirsk.
Havana Brown is the best choice of a mustachioed pet for people who are willing to devote a lot of time to the animal. In return, a person receives affection, boundless love and affection. Communicating with Havana fills you with only positive emotions. In addition, the cat pleases the eye with its attractive appearance. You just need to buy a kitten from a nursery, so as not to come across a scam.
Video with Havana Brown cat:
Disease Prevention
The Havana cat, like any other breed, needs vaccination. This is a must for all pets.
When the pet reaches the age specified by the veterinarian, the animal is sent to the clinic, where it receives injections against calcivirosis, panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, and rabies. Vaccination is carried out annually.
Vaccination is the key to health
In addition to injections, each pet undergoes deworming. In the case of Havana, such measures are especially relevant, since she does not miss the opportunity to try unfamiliar objects.
