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.
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 commonly cause sniffles and sneezes.
While no cat breed is 100 per cent hypoallergenic, these are the 12 likely to cause minimal issues.
9. 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
10. 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
11. 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
12. British Shorthair
Although not typically considered hypoallergenic, British Shorthairs shed less than other fluffy breeds and have lower dander levels. | Canva/Getty Images