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.
13. British Shorthair
Although not typically considered hypoallergenic, British Shorthairs shed less than other fluffy breeds and have lower dander levels. | Canva/Getty Images