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.
There’s plenty to think about when it comes to choosing a breed, with some costing more than others, certain types potentially suffering health problems, and others having different levels of affection.
Meanwhile, some cats naturally grow larger than others - so are best for those with a bit of room at home - while others are smaller and seem to be eternal kittens.
With that in mind, here are the 24 biggest and smallest breeds of cat.
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17. American Curl
Easy to identify from their backward-curled ears - the result of a genetic mutation that sadly makes them susceptible to health issues - American Curls tend to weigh a lightweight 5–10 pounds. First bred in California, they are an adaptable breed that love humans. | AFP via Getty Images
18. Oriental Shorthair
A close relation of the Siamese Cat, the Oriental Shorthair has a similarly almond-shaped eyes and distinctively triangular heads and ears. The tend to grow to 5-10 pounds and are massively social and playful pets - often enjoing a game of fetch like a tiny feline Labrador. | AFP via Getty Images
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19. Japanese Bobtail
An ancient breed from Japan, the Japanese Bobtail is named after its distinctive tail that looks more like a rabbit's that a cat's. The Japanese see the breed as a symbol of good luck, and they grow to around 5-10 pounds. | Getty Images
20. Balinese
Another small cat breed closely related to the Siamese - it's essentially same cat but with a medium-length silky coat and a distinctively plumed tail - Balinese cats tend to weigh 5–10 pounds. They have a talkative and affectionate personality, and tend to be very intelligent cats. | Canva/Getty Images