Orlovia
The origin of the name of this pedigree cat is not clear. Possibly the name Havana cat refers to the cigars from Cuba. Both have one thing in common: the color tint. In any case, the naming has nothing to do with the country of origin of this intelligent and graceful cat. Below you will find out everything you need to know about this extraordinary breed of cat, which is rare in Europe. The following breed names are also used:
- Havana Brown
- Chestnut Oriental Shorthair
- Chestnut Havana
- Swiss Mountain Cat
History and Origin of the Havana Cat
Chestnut cats are known in England since the beginning of the 19th century. It was not until around 1950 that this color type was actually bred. The initiator was, among others, Mrs. Baronin von Ulmann. The basis was Siamese cats with chocolate point markings. They were paired with solid and sleek shorthair cats. This mahogany-colored coat variation developed from crossing the coat color black. The breeding efforts were crowned with success after two years.
In 1952 the cat “Elmtower Bronze Idol” was born in Great Britain. He is the founding father of the Havana Brown cat. In 1958 this breed was recognized by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) under the name Chestnut Foreign Shorthair. In 1971, the breed name Havana cat was coined and accepted.
Around the mid-1950s, specimens of the Havana Oriental Shorthair were imported into the United States of America. As early as 1959, this new breed was accepted by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). In 1964 she received champion status in the USA.
Essence and Character
The most important traits of the Havana cat are their affection, playfulness, and their intelligence. These characteristics are reminiscent of the Siamese cat. In terms of type, however, she is calmer and generally friendlier to other dogs. She chooses the times the rest and cuddles phases herself. After her activity level, she needs the closeness of her human. Physical contact is very important to this cat. The attachment of this cat breed dominates your daily life together. Also, she doesn’t like being alone. Due to her innate curiosity, she is not shy of visitors, but rather cautious.
The Appearance of the Havana Cat
It is a medium-sized cat with a slender and elongated build. Typical of this type of cat is the elongated head with large, forward-pointing ears. The large eyes are oval in shape and green. The muscular body sits on four long and slender legs. The end is oval paws. The tail is of medium length and tapers towards the end. The short fur is dense and lies close to the body. The shiny coat is monochromatic and without markings. Coat color varies from mahogany to chocolate.
Attitude and Care
Keeping and caring for Havana is uncomplicated. The usual cat accessories (litter box, food bowl, drinking facility) meet the basic needs. Toys and climbing facilities, as well as the presence of their two-legged friend, are important for the Havana cat’s occupation and psyche. They are talkative and affectionate. The “conversation” is not as vocal as in Siamese cats. A Havana is in robust health and usually only needs routine vet checks.
Outdoor cat or indoor cat?
A Havana cat is more likely to be kept indoors. There is a pleasant atmosphere in both summer and winter. In general, these cats are not ambitious outdoor cats. Although some specimens like to use such a possibility in the summer. An existing garden or balcony that the house cat can use as he pleases in the summer months would be ideal. As soon as it rains or the outside temperature drops, they prefer to sit “behind the stove”. The Havana cat does not need an outdoor space for a fulfilling cat life. If you can’t offer this opportunity, then you don’t have to feel guilty.
How much activity does the Havana cat need?
Havana cats are not sleepyheads. You should offer your roommate some employment opportunities. This is important for this intelligent race in your absence. This house tiger loves to play with its human. Learning little tricks is easily possible. This urge to be busy can become exhausting after a day at work. An alternative would be a cat partner of the same age and with the right temperament as compensation.