Originally called Chestnut Brown and often referred to as Havana Brown, this new breed was first recognized in the late 1950s and is still being developed. It did not originate in Cuba. It was named for its color-rich cigar tobacco brown. The popularity of the Havana is growing, both for shows and as pets. It is a responsive, intelligent, and affectionate cat with a quiet, sophisticated manner- winning ways that foretell a bright future for the breed.

The Havana has a complex heritage dominated by Siamese and Burmese breeds. It resembles a Burmese, in fact, but has slanted green eyes, rather than gold as in the Burmese. The short, glossy coat is brighter than the coat of the Burmese. The pink pads on its feet are also distinctive. In show cats no black is allowable in the coat. The muzzle is sharp, as in the Siamese, and the head well proportioned on the long, lithe body. The tail is a slim and whiplike.