The Havana Brown Cat stands out as a breed of medium size, celebrated for its uniquely rich, solid brown coat and well-defined musculature. Its distinctive muzzle shape, combined with the lustrous coat color, strikingly expressive eyes, and large, forward-set ears, makes it unlike any other feline breed. Understanding the breed standard is key to appreciating the Havana Brown’s special qualities.
General Appearance and Breed Essence
The ideal Havana Brown presents an overall impression of balanced elegance and robust health. It is a medium-sized cat with a firm, muscular body, showcasing a rich, even brown coat from nose to tail. The breed’s uniqueness is immediately apparent in its head and facial features, contributing significantly to its distinct identity. Judges and enthusiasts alike value the breed for its harmonious proportions and distinctive traits, rather than sheer size.
Detailed Breed Standards
Head Structure
The Havana Brown’s head, when viewed from above, is notably longer than it is wide, tapering gracefully to a rounded muzzle. A defining characteristic is the pronounced whisker break on both sides of the muzzle, setting it apart from other breeds. In profile, a distinct stop at eye level is evident, leading to an almost square-shaped muzzle end. This angular appearance is enhanced by a well-developed chin, which is more square than rounded in its outline. Ideally, a near-perpendicular line can be drawn from the nose tip to the chin. Adult males may exhibit broader heads and stud jowls, which are permissible. It’s also worth noting that sparse hair may be present on the chin, directly below the lower lip, which is acceptable within the breed standard.
Ear Characteristics
Ears of the Havana Brown are large and noticeably round-tipped. They are cupped at the base and set widely apart on the head, yet they do not flare outwards. Instead, they tilt forward, giving the cat an ever-alert and attentive expression. The ears are sparsely furnished with hair, both inside and out, maintaining a clean and refined look.
Eye Shape and Color
The eyes are a crucial feature, described as aperture oval in shape – neither fully round nor almond. They are medium in size, set wide apart, and are remarkably brilliant, alert, and expressive, contributing significantly to the breed’s captivating gaze. Eye color is strictly defined as any vivid and even shade of green. The richer and deeper the green hue, the more it is favored in breed standards, adding to the allure of the Havana Brown.
Body and Neck Composition
The torso of the Havana Brown is medium in length, displaying a firm and muscular build. Adult males typically are larger and more muscular than females. However, breed standards prioritize overall balance and proportion over mere size. The neck is of medium length and proportionally balanced with the body. The breed embodies a mid-range conformation, positioned between the stocky, short-coupled breeds and the slender, svelte types, representing a harmonious middle ground.
Legs, Paws, and Tail
Havana Browns are noted for standing relatively high on their legs compared to other medium-sized breeds. Their legs are straight, with females exhibiting slimmer and more delicate legs, while mature males may show less slenderness due to stronger musculature. The hind legs are slightly longer than the front legs. Paws are oval-shaped and compact. Regarding toes, they have five toes on each front paw and four on each hind paw. The tail is medium in length, proportionate to the body, and slender, tapering to a point without being whip-like or blunt. It should not be excessively broad at the base.
Coat Quality and Color Depth
The Havana Brown’s coat is short to medium in length, characterized by its smooth and lustrous texture. The ideal color is a rich and consistently even shade of warm brown throughout the entire coat. This brown is specifically described as tending towards a red-brown, often likened to mahogany, rather than a black-brown. This distinctive color is a hallmark of the breed.
Havana Brown Color Specifics
The unique brown coloration extends to other features. The nose leather is brown with a distinctive rosy flush. Paw pads also exhibit a rosy tone, complementing the coat. Whiskers are brown, harmonizing with the overall coat color and enhancing the breed’s monochromatic elegance. It’s important to note that ghost tabby markings are permissible in kittens and young adults but should ideally disappear as the cat matures.
Disqualifications
Certain traits are considered disqualifications in Havana Browns to maintain breed purity and standards. These include a kinked tail, the presence of a locket or button (patches of white hair), an incorrect number of toes, any eye color other than green, and incorrect coloration of whiskers, nose leather, or paw pads. These disqualifications ensure the breed’s specific characteristics are preserved.
By adhering to these detailed standards, breeders and enthusiasts ensure the preservation of the Havana Brown’s distinctive traits, celebrating its unique place in the feline world.
