Humans have kept cats as pets for over 10,000 years, with the first domesticated felines thought to be evolved 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 in to our homes and our hearts.
In the UK alone more than 10 million feline friends happily share houses (and couches) with their bloved human owners.
There are a huge range of types of cat to choose from - according to The International Cat Association (the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed and household cats) there are 73 ‘standardised breeds’ out there, along with a bewildering number of crosses.
So there are many factors to mull over before choosing a breed - perhaps a smaller cat for a more modest home or a hypoallergenic cat for those with allergies.
Meanwhile, some cat breeds have the reputation of being far more intelligent than others - so if you want a cat you can train, or who will delight you with their intellect and boundless curiosity, then these are the ones to pop at the top of your feline wishlist.
Here are the 10 most intelligent breeds of cat.
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5. Siamese
You'll know how clever your Siamese cat is because they'll not stop telling you! This is one of the most communicative breeds of cat and they'll chatter away happily for hours as they show off how much the've leared and how they are exceptional at remembering routines and solving problems. | AFP via Getty Images
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6. Maine Coon
The enormous Maine Coon has a brain as big as its body. They have excellent memories and respond well to training. Perhaps the cat breed that is most aware and understanding of its surroundings, it tends to know where everything is at all times. | AFP via Getty Images
7. Balinese
Essentially a long haired Siamese cat, the Balinese shares much of its close cousin's attributes. That includes their intelligence - and chatting away about it at every opportunity. | Canva/Getty Images
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8. Oriental Shorthair
Oriental Shorthairs are clever, inquisitive, and mentally active. They thrive on interaction and stimulation, quickly learning games, routines, tricks, and occasionally discovering mischievous ways to solve problems. | AFP via Getty Images