The Havana Brown is a small to medium-sized, muscular cat that is one of a number of breeds classified generally as oriental or foreign shorthairs. Its most defining characteristic is its lustrous mahogany coat, which resembles that of a mink in both color and texture. Its fur is fine, short, exceptionally glossy and uniformly a warm, chocolate to chestnut brown. Although ghost markings are acceptable on kittens, adults should be solid (called “self-colored”), with no trace of tabby markings. The Havana Brown’s eyes are oval and a remarkably vivid green. It has a narrow head that is slightly longer than it is wide and tapers to a rounded muzzle with a strong, squared chin. Its whiskers are also brown, complimenting its coat color. When viewed in profile, there is a distinct change in the slope of the Havana’s forehead, called a “stop,” at the level of the eyes. Its ears are large, rounded at the tips and pricked slightly forward, giving this cat an alert and inquisitive expression. The nose leather and paw pads of the Havana are brown with a distinctly rosy flush. Their necks and legs are long and slender, and their paws are small and oval. Males tend to be larger than females, usually weighing between 8 and 10 pounds. Females typically weigh between 6 and 8 pounds.

The Havana Brown is a graceful, affectionate and highly intelligent cat, with a big personality in a mid-sized package. It is similar in temperament to the Siamese, although it is less vocal and has a softer (and what many consider to be a more pleasing) voice. These are sociable, adaptable, friendly cats that crave human companionship and do not thrive when left unattended for long periods of time. However, they are not pushy or overly demanding of attention.