Humans are thought to have kept cats as pets for over 10,000 years, with the first domesticated felines evolving from African wildcats.
Since then they have become the world’s second most popular pet, just behind dogs when it comes to the animals we most like to welcome into our homes and our hearts.
In the UK alone there are more than 10 million feline friends in households.
And there are a huge range of types of cat to choose from - according to The International Cat Association there are 73 ‘standardised breeds’, along with a bewildering number of crosses.
One thing you might like to consider before making a decision is that different breeds of cat tend to have different energy levels.
While some breeds seem to be on a neverending adventure involving plenty of high-jinx and play, others idea of a good time is a comfy couch and inspecting the inside of their eyelids for hours on end.
With that in mind, here are the 24 most and least active breeds of cat.
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1. Bengal Cat
We're starting with the most energetic cat breeds. Bengals are extremely active due to their wild ancestry - they were bred by crossing domesticated cats with Asian leopard cats - and high intelligence. They need constant stimulation to remain happy and healthy - loving to climb and run. This is a cat that will explore every inch of their environment. | Getty Images
2. Savannah
Savannah cats are another breed that inherit their near-endless energy from their wild lineage - they were bred fro wild African Serval cats. These impressive jumpers actually behave more like a highly active dog - so you'll be needing plenty of space. | Canva/Getty Images
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3. Abyssinian
Adorable Abyssinians are eternally curious and rarely sit still. Their natural inquisitiveness means that they are always busy exploring and they are known as one of the most playful domestic breeds. | AFP via Getty Images | AFP via Getty Images
4. Oriental Shorthair
Closely related to Siamese, Oriental Shorthairs are similarly lively and inquisitive. They enjoy climbing heights and investigating everything, thriving in environments where they receive regular stimulation and companionship. | Canva/Getty Images