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 into 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 you might like to consider before making a decision is that different breeds of cat tend to have different energy levels.
While some breeds’ idea of a good time is a comfy couch and inspecting the inside of their eyelids for hours, others seem to be on a neverending adventure involving plenty of high-jinx and play.
Here are the 12 msot active breeds of cat.
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5. Savannah cat
The Savannah Cats has yet to find a structure it's not been able to scale and can clear entire sofas with single leaps. This is another cat that needs plenty of interactive play sessions before they'll ever consider a nap. | AFP via Getty Images
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6. Devon Rex
Devon Rex cats are mischievous, affectionate, and endlessly playful. They enjoy climbing onto shoulders, darting through rooms, and inventing games, making them entertaining companions with remarkably high daily energy levels. | Getty Images
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7. Cornish Rex
Known for playful antics and speed, Cornish Rex cats behave almost kitten-like throughout adulthood. They love chasing toys, performing acrobatic jumps, and staying involved in household activities constantly and enthusiastically. | AFP via Getty Images
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8. Turkish Van
Strong and athletic, Turkish Vans are famous for active personalities and unusual attraction to water. They enjoy running, climbing, swimming, and interactive games requiring coordination, curiosity, and physical engagement every day. | Getty Images