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.
Before choosing a particular type of cat to welcome to your home it’s worth considering breed categoristics - with different cats having different characters, personalities and traits.
One thing to consider is that while some breeds are happy to spend most of their time curled up on a lap or couch, others are natural born adventurers who are constantly on the go and in need of constant play and stimulation from their owners.
Here are 12 of the most active breeds of cat.
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1. Bengal Cat
Bengals are extremely active due to their wild ancestry - they were bred by crossing domesticated cats with Asian leopard cats - and high intelligence. They need constant stimulation to remain happy and healthy - loving to climb and run. This is a cat that will explore every inch of their environment. | AFP via Getty Images
2. Abyssinian
Adorable Abyssinians are eternally curious and rarely sit still. Their natural inquisitiveness means that they are always busy exploring and they are known as one of the most playful domestic breeds. | AFP via Getty Images
3. Savannah
Savannah cats are another breed that inherit their near-endless energy from their wild lineage - they were bred fro wild African Serval cats. These impressive jumpers actually behave more like a highly active dog - so you'll be needing plenty of space. | AFP via Getty Images
4. Siamese
Siamese cats are noisy, nosy, social, and energetic. These are cats that need constant interaction, and become restless without engagement. Good luck working from home with one of these cats around - they will provide constant distractions due to their antics. | AFP via Getty Images