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.
Here are the 10 most popular, according to the Cat Fanciers’ Association who have the world’s largest registry of pedigree cats.
Make sure you don't miss a moment of breaking news from across Scotland by signing up to our free newsletter here.
13. Norwegian Forest Cat
Completing our list of the world's most popular cats is the striking Norwegian Forest Cat., With a thick coat adapted for the cold climate of its homeland, these cats are thought to have been brought to Norway by the Vikings as long ago as 1000AD. They nearly went extinct before a boost in popularity saw the breed thrive in recent years. | Canva/Getty Images