We’re a nation of cat lovers - with more than 10 million feline friends belonging to households across the UK.
It means they are the second most popular household pet after dogs, with a whole range of different breeds to choose from.
According to The International Cat Association there are 73 ‘standardised breeds’, along with a bewildering number of crosses.
There are also many pets available for adoption from one of the many cat rescue and rehoming centres across the UK.
One thing to consider when choosing a specific breed is whether any of your household suffer from allergies - as cat hair and the protein ‘fel s 1’ that felines secrete can cause sniffles and sneezes.
While no cat breed is 100 per cent hypoallergenic, these are the 13 likely to cause minimal issues.
5. Oriental Shorthair
A close relative of the Siamese, the Oriental Shorthair breed has a sleek, short coat that sheds minimally. They are known for their vocal, affectionate, and social personalities, but suffer from the health conditions common to othe flat-faced brachycephalic breeds. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Cornish Rex
Unlike most ither breeds of cat, the Cornish Rex only has a fine undercoat, leading to significantly reduced shedding - ideal for those with heair allegies. Their fine coat means that they can get chilly easily - so best to keep them inside in winter. | Canvas/Getty Images
7. Devon Rex
Similar to the Cornish Rex, the Devon Rex has short, curly fur that doesn’t shed much. They are mischievous, affectionate, and highly social. As the name would suggest, they were first bred in Corwall in the 1960s. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Javanese
A close cousin of the Balinese, Javanese cats only shed lightly, due to them lacking an undercoat. These clever cats sadly share the common genetic disorders suffered by Balinese and Siamese breeds. | Canva/Getty Images