The Havana Brown cat presents an overall impression of a medium-sized feline distinguished by its rich, solid brown coat and well-defined musculature. Uniquely characterized by its muzzle shape, coat color, brilliant, expressive eyes, and large, forward-tilted ears, the Havana Brown stands apart from any other breed. This breed standard outlines the ideal traits of a Havana Cat.
General Conformation
The quintessential Havana Brown is a study in balanced proportions and refined features. Its medium size is complemented by a robust physique, indicating strength without bulkiness. The breed’s allure is significantly enhanced by its distinctive head and coat characteristics, setting it apart in the feline world.
Head
Shape: From a top view, the head of a Havana cat is notably longer than it is wide, tapering towards a rounded muzzle. A distinct break is apparent on both sides of the face, just behind the whisker pads. This somewhat narrow muzzle and whisker break are crucial breed hallmarks, essential in a representative specimen.
Profile/Stop: In profile, a noticeable stop at the eyes marks the transition from the forehead to the muzzle. The muzzle’s end appears almost square, an effect accentuated by a well-developed chin. The chin’s outline is more angular than rounded. Ideally, a near-perpendicular line can be drawn from the nose tip to the chin. Judges should allow for broader heads and stud jowls in mature males. Sparse hair directly below the lower lip on the chin is permissible.
Ears: The ears are large, round-tipped, and cupped at the base, set widely on the head without flaring. They tilt markedly forward, lending the Havana cat an ever-alert expression. The ears should have minimal hair both inside and out.
Eyes
Shape & Size: The eye aperture is oval, medium in size, and set wide apart. The eyes are brilliant, alert, and highly expressive, contributing significantly to the breed’s captivating gaze.
Color: Eye color is a defining feature, specified as any vivid and even shade of green. The deeper and more intense the green, the more desirable the eye color.
Color
Coat Color: The hallmark of the Havana cat is its coat color: a rich, even shade of warm brown throughout. This color leans towards a red-brown, often described as mahogany, rather than a black-brown. Uniformity and richness of color are paramount.
Paw Pads, Nose Leather & Whiskers: The nose leather is brown with a rosy undertone. Paw pads are rosy-toned, complementing the coat. Whiskers are brown, harmonizing with the overall coat color. It’s important to note that ghost tabby markings are acceptable in kittens and young adults.
Coat
The coat of the Havana cat is short to medium in length, characterized by its smooth and lustrous texture. It should lie close to the body, enhancing the cat’s sleek appearance.
Body and Neck
The torso is medium in length, firm, and muscular, reflecting the breed’s athleticism. Adult males typically exhibit larger builds compared to females. However, overall balance and proportion are more critical than sheer size when evaluating a Havana cat. The neck is of medium length, proportionate to the body, contributing to the cat’s elegant carriage. The breed’s general conformation is balanced, falling midway between the cobby and svelte body types.
Legs and Feet
For a medium-sized cat, the Havana Brown stands relatively high on its legs. Legs are straight and well-muscled. Female Havana cats tend to have slimmer and more delicate legs, while mature males may show less slenderness due to more pronounced musculature. The hind legs are slightly longer than the front legs. Paws are oval and compact. The Havana cat has five toes on each front paw and four on each hind paw.
Tail
The tail is medium in length and balanced with the body, slender without being whip-like or blunt, and tapers towards the end. It should not be excessively broad at the base.
Disqualifications
Certain traits are considered disqualifications in the Havana cat breed standard: a kinked tail, the presence of a locket or button (white patch), an incorrect number of toes, any eye color other than green, and incorrect colors for whiskers, nose leather, or paw pads.
Havana Brown Color Class Numbers
(For reference purposes only, not an official part of the CFA Show Standard)
| Color | ||
|---|---|---|
| Brown | 0408 | 0409 |
| AOV | 0418 | 0419 |
Havana Brown Allowable Outcross Breeds
Limited outcrossing is permitted for the Havana Brown breed under specific conditions. For detailed information, please consult the CFA Central Office.
This standard serves as a guide for breeders and judges, aiming to preserve and promote the unique characteristics of the Havana cat, a breed celebrated for its distinctive appearance and engaging personality.
