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 in to 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.
Different breeds cost vastly different amounts of money, with some rarer animals commanding jaw-dropping prices.
Of course, there’s no need to shell out a fortune on a cat, with many pets available for adoption from one of the many cat rescue and rehoming centres across the UK.
That said, here are the world’s 12 most expensive breeds of cat.
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9. Siberian
These fluffy, large cats originate from Russia and are known for their thick triple-layered coat, which makes them well-suited for cold climates. Siberians are friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic, making them a popular yet pricey breed - expect to pay anywhere from £1,000 to £5,000. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Maine Coon
One of the largest domestic cat breeds, Maine Coons have thick, water-resistant fur and bushy tails. They are friendly, intelligent, and enjoy human interaction. Their thick coat requires regular grooming. Expect to pay from £1,000-£3,500. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau is one of the few naturally spotted domestic cats. They are incredibly fast and agile, often displaying a playful and intelligent nature. Their unique appearance and lineage add to their price, whcih ranges from £1,000–£3,000. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Ragdoll
One of the UK's most popular cat breeds, Ragdolls are known for their gentle, floppy nature when picked up (hence the name). They have striking blue eyes and semi-long fur that requires moderate grooming. They are social and make excellent indoor pets. They tend to cost around £1,000-£2,500. | Canva/Getty Images