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We’re a nation of cat lovers - with more than 10 million feline friends belonging to households across Britain.
When it comes to four-legged friends it’s usually dogs rather than cats that are thought of as being the most friendly, outgoing and loving pets.
Many people with little experience of cats wrongly believe they are solitary – even standoffish – animals, but our feline friends can be just as loving as their canine colleagues.
And with a number of cat breeds to choose from - according to The International Cat Association there are 73 ‘standardised breeds’ along with a bewildering number of crosses - some have a tendency to be more friendly than others.
These are the 13 breeds most likely to reciprocate your love and affection.
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13. American Shorthair
As the name would suggest, the American Shorthair is one of the most popular breeds of cat in the USA - it's pretty much the definition of 'housecat' on the other side of the Atlantic. Very adaptable and a perfect family pet, they tend to love being held - relishing all human contact. | Canva/Getty Images