Havana Brown

The Havana Brown has a somewhat clouded history. Some cat historians believe that this beautiful breed happened through an accidental breeding, while others believe that the breeding was deliberate. In either case, in 1952 in England, a chocolate kitten was born. This kitten was named Elmtower Bronze Idol and is considered to be the first Havana Brown kitten. The following year, there were four Havana Brown males. They are the foundation of the Havana Brown breed.

The Havana Brown was named for the deep, rich brown color of the Havana cigar. This made for some confusion at the inception of the breed, as many people thought that this meant the breed had originated in Cuba instead of England. A name change to the Chestnut Brown was attempted at one point, but this did not stick, and the name of the breed reverted to the original Havana Brown.

The Havana Brown is known as the Havana in Europe and in one cat registry in the United States. The European use of Havana is historical, while the American change reflects that the breed comes in a color other than its traditional deep brown.

The Havana is a very rare breed. If a list of endangered cat breeds existed, the Havana Brown would probably top the list. Currently, attempts are being made to save this breed from extinction. To that end, the cat registries may have to reopen the breed. That means they may change the registration rules to permit outcrossing of existing Havana Browns to another breed. So if you see a Havana Brown, understand that the cat registered this way may well have another breed in her pedigree. That can mean subtle but important changes in her personality and habits, as well as in appearance.