Get

In Your Inbox

Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

8 Brown Cat Breeds (With Info & Pictures)

Abyssinian young cat sitting at tower

Cats are one of America’s favorite pets. They come in various coat patterns, and while most tend to be black, grey, or orange, other colors are also available, including brown, which is quite popular. If you are interested in this less-common hue, keep reading for a list of several cat breeds that tend to produce brown cats.

divider cats oct 2024

The 8 Brown Cat Breeds

1. Abyssinian

abyssinian cat looking away
Image By: Anton Akhmatov, Shutterstock
Height: 8–10 inches
Length: 12–16 inches
Weight: 6–10 pounds

The Abyssinian is a small to medium-sized breed with a distinctive ticked coat that often displays warm brown shades. They have a muscular body with a medium-length tail and almond-shaped eyes. They are playful, active, curious, and highly intelligent and form strong bonds with their human companions.


2. Bengal

Bengal cat sitting on the bed
Image Credit: Shvaygert Ekaterina, Shutterstock
Height: 8–10 inches
Length: 16–20 inches
Weight: 8–15 pounds

The Bengal resembles a miniature leopard with a range of brown hues. They have a muscular build, strong legs, and a long, sleek body. They are a highly energetic, agile, and intelligent cat that requires plenty of mental and physical stimulation to thrive.


3. Burmese

burmese cat in gray background
Image Credit: Seregraff, Shutterstock
Height: 8–10 inches
Length: 12–15 inches
Weight: 8–12 pounds

Burmese cats have sleek, solid brown coats that exude warmth and richness. They have medium-sized, compact bodies with well-developed muscles, expressive and round eyes, and a sweet, affectionate nature. Burmese cats make loyal and loving family pets.


4. Singapura

Singapuras
Image Credit: jojosmb, Shutterstock
Height: 6–8 inches
Length: 10–12 inches
Weight: 4–8 pounds

The Singapura is a small cat breed with a sepia-toned coat. Despite their petite size, they have a muscular build and large, expressive eyes. They also have a curious, playful personality and form strong bonds with their human family. They are outgoing and will often be the first to greet strangers.


5. Havana Brown

Havana Cat
Image Credit: Magnetic Mcc, Shutterstock
Height: 8–10 inches
Length: 12–15 inches
Weight: 8–12 pounds

The Havana Brown is a medium-sized breed with a chocolate-brown coat that is short and glossy. They have a muscular body, broad chest, and expressive green eyes. They are known for their affectionate, loyal, and outgoing personalities, making them great companions.


6. Oriental Shorthair

Black Oriental Shorthair in the grass
Image Credit: jojosmb, Shutterstock
Height: 8–10 inches
Length: 12–15 inches
Weight: 6–12 pounds

Oriental Shorthairs come in various coat colors and patterns, including shades of brown. This cat has a slender build with a long neck, large ears, and almond-shaped eyes that add to their unique appearance. They are highly intelligent, vocal, and active cats with outgoing personalities.


7. Somali

a somali cat portrait
Image Credit: Nataliya Kuznetsova, Shutterstock
Height: 8–10 inches
Length: 12–15 inches
Weight: 6–12 pounds

The Somali cat, or Long-Haired Abyssinian, has a ticked coat that can display various shades of brown. They have a medium-sized body with a long, bushy tail. They are playful, mischievous, and athletic and are usually quite vocal when they want something.


8. Toyger

Toyger cat on a white tree
Image Credit: Kutikova Ekaterina, Shutterstock
Height: 8–10 inches
Length: 14–18 inches
Weight: 10–15 pounds

The Toyger is a relatively new breed that resembles a miniature tiger. Their coat has bold, dark stripes on a brown background. Toygers have a muscular and athletic build, with a medium to large body. They have a playful, friendly, and outgoing personality and due to their intelligence, enjoy interactive play.

divider 2 cats

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Common Shades in Brown Cat Breeds?

Brown cat breeds can display various shades of brown, including chocolate, sepia, cinnamon, and mahogany. There are all brown cats and also cats with a mix of brown and other colors. Some may have lighter or darker variations within these color ranges.

Are Brown Cat Breeds Hypoallergenic?

No, brown cat breeds are not inherently hypoallergenic (there’s no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic cat, anyway). However, some individuals with allergies may find certain breeds, like the Oriental Shorthair or the Singapura, more tolerable due to their producing lower levels of allergenic proteins in their saliva and dander.

How Do I Care for the Coat of a Brown Cat Breed?

Coat care for brown cats varies depending on the breed. Generally, though, regular brushing helps minimize shedding and maintain a healthy coat, with long-haired cats requiring more frequent brushing. Some breeds may also require more grooming, such as occasional bathing or specific coat care routines, so it’s important to research the specific breed’s grooming needs before purchase.

professional-groomer-brushes-abyssinian-cat
Image Credit: Roman Zaiets, Shutterstock

divider 2 cats

Summary

Brown cats could be a number of different breeds. Whether you’re looking for an all brown cat or a brown variation, there’s lots to choose from. Popular ones include the Havana Brown, Burmese, and the newer Toyger. These cats require the same care and attention as any other breed and will make just as good companions. It’s also important to note that other cats may also produce brown coats, just not as frequently.


Featured Image Credit: Darya Lavinskaya, Shutterstock

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything cat

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Catster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

2 Responses

  1. I have always owned cats along with dogs and horses and bunnies throughout my life and I've owned various different breeds but my different cats I've owned over the years have all been rescues from local shelters and my most recent baby we found in our trailer court community and he's a chocolate brown but I'm not sure if his breed because like I previously stated he was born from a mostly feral stray queen. I'd love it if someone could help me figure out his breeding and help me with a sure decision on if he is a true chocolate kitty ! I can provide photos if anyone could help me !! it would be very much appreciated!! this article was a huge help also !! thank you for the knowledgeable information and the way you deliver the information makes it really easy to understand!! …. and our chocolate boy's name is Koda ????

    1. Hi Cheyenne, how amazing that you have the pleasure of sharing your life with cats, horses, dogs, and bunnies! Thanks for sharing your story. The most reliable way to find out is by doing a DNA test this is a list of the best ones: https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/best-cat-dna-tests/. You can also send your cat's images to: info@catster.com and we can try to help but this is not a 100% effective method. Also, it sounds like your chocolate kitty Koda is a cutie, please feel free to submit their pictures to our cat photo contest at: https://www.catster.com/submit-your-cat/
      For a chance to have Koda featured on our site!

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Can Cats Eat Craisins? Vet-Approved Nutritional Benefits & Precautions

Our pets are our best friends, and we only want them to eat the best. However, sometimes you wonder if your cat might...

4 Totally Legal & Safe Ways to Get Your Cat High (Vet-Approved)

Cats have a powerful sense of smell to help them find prey and interact with their environment. Toys that engage this sense, such...

Why Do Cats Bite Each Other’s Necks? The Interesting Reasons

If you have more than one cat, you may have noticed that cats have a tendency to bite each other on the neck....

Cats and Video Chats: Why Doesn’t Clutch React to the Computer?

Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and meet my five hilarious cats: Clutch, Cyril, Alex, Zelda, and...

More related

Pet Assure Insurance Mint Wellness Plan Review 2025: A Detailed Look

Pet Assure is a veteran pet insurance alternative company that has been bringing pet owners discounted care for over 25 years. They entered...

We Chat With Cyriak About His “Meow The Jewels” Video

Some days, you think you’ve seen all that the Internet has to offer when it comes to cat videos. Sure, there are gazillions...

5 DIY Ant-Proof Cat Bowls: Vet-Approved Ideas To Try Today (With Pictures)

You’re not alone if you’re frustrated with ants getting into your cat’s bowl. It can be extremely frustrating, not to mention a waste...

5 Best Spots to Pet a Cat: Vet Approved Tips

Cats are unique, fascinating creatures that have captured our hearts for generations. While some felines crave constant attention and physical touch, others are...

Keep reading

Is Kalanchoe Poisonous to Cats? Vet-Reviewed Toxicity Explained

Kalanchoe is a type of succulent plant, popularly kept as a houseplant. Although it is not considered one of the most dangerous, it is mildly toxic to cats and causes gastric upset, so you should try to keep it out...

Catster_Is Kalanchoe Poisonous to Cats

Burmese Cat Health Problems: 14 Vet-Verified Issues

Bringing a cat into your home is always a fun and exciting prospect, but it also involves learning a lot about your new furry friend. You’ll need to discover the kind of food they like to eat and what litter...

Catster_Health Problems of Burmese Cats

How Many Litter Boxes Per Cat Should I Have In My Home? Vet-Approved Info & Tips

Cats that live in the same home often adjust to sharing things, from toys and water bowls to beds and the favorite spot on the couch. The one thing that cats are sometimes unwilling to share, however, is litter boxes,...

tabby cat standing behind two cat litter boxes with clay and organic cat litter

Can Cats Sweat? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Every year as summer approaches, many pet owners wonder if their cats can sweat to stay cool and what they should be doing to prevent their pets from becoming overheated. The short answer is yes, cats do sweat, though not...

cat heat

Do Cats Pee Blood When Stressed? Vet-Reviewed Causes For Blood In Urine

Any health problem that affects your four-legged friend is cause for concern, especially if it seems like your cat is peeing blood. The presence of blood in the urine is called hematuria, and it can be caused by various underlying...

Bald Spots on Cats: 10 Vet-Verified Causes & Treatment Options

One feature synonymous with cats, the hairless breeds notwithstanding, is a soft and fluffy coat. So if your feline has developed a bald spot, we need to find out the cause and get on top of treating the problem. The...

cat with bald spot on neck

Why Does My Cat Fart When I Pick Him Up? 5 Vet-Reviewed Reasons

As much as you love your cat, there are times when they can be a little gross. Times like when they repeatedly shove their butt in your face or the way they can fart when you pick them up. While...

male owner holding his devon rex cat

Do Cats Get Brain Freeze? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

If you’ve ever sucked down a milkshake too quickly, you’re probably familiar with the discomfort of “brain freeze.” A quick Internet search will reveal multiple clips of cats reacting abruptly to their first taste of ice cream or frozen treats....

bored domestic cat