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.
Acording to The International Cat Association there are 73 ‘standardised breeds’, along with a bewildering number of crosses.
A recent report by the Royal Veterinary College found marked differences in how long different breeds tend to live for - with some living more than twice as long as others.
Researchers analysed data of 7,936 cats over a three year period, taken from vets in the UK, finding that overall cats had an average life expectancy of around 11.7 years.
They also found that crossbreeds lived slightly longer than pedigree cats on average - 12.5 years and 11.2 years respectively.
Here’s how long they found you can expect 12 popular breeds to live for.
5. Persian
Fluffy Persian Cats can suffer from health issues connected to their flat faces. They were found to live for an average of 10.9 years. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Ragdoll
The Ragdoll is the UK's most popular breed of pedigree cat - and also one of the most affectionate. They were found to live for 10.3 years on average. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Norwegian Forest Cat
One of the rarer breeds of cat in the UK, the luxuriously-coated Norwegian Forest Cat tends to live for 10 years on average. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Maine Coon
Much loved in the American state from which it takes its name, the Maine Coon was found to live for 9.7 years on average. | Canva/Getty Images