It’s thought that cats have been living with humans for more than 10,000 years, with the first domesticated felines evolved from fierce African wildcats.
They are now Britain’s, and the world’s, second most popular pet, just behind dogs when it comes to the animals we most like to welcome to share our homes.
In Britain alone there are more than 10 million feline friends enjoying our sofas.
There are penty of types of cat to choose from - according to The International Cat Association (the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed and household cats) there are 73 ‘standardised breeds’ out there, along with a bewildering number of crosses and the ubiquitous ‘Moggy’ cat.
There are many factors to mull over before choosing a breed - perhaps a smaller cat for a more modest home or a hypoallergenic cat for those with allergies.
Meanwhile, some cat breeds have the reputation of being far more intelligent than others - although it’s worth pointing out that individual animals may buck the general trend and there’s no academic research on the subject as there is for dogs.
But if you want a cat you can train, or who will delight you with their intellect and boundless curiosity, there are certain breeds that should top your list.
Meanwhile if you want a cat that’s just happy to cuddle up without needing constant stimulation and interactive games then you should look at another set of kitties.
To help out, here are the 18 most and least intelligent breeds of cat.
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1. Abyssinian
We're starting with the most intelligent cat breeds. Nicknamed 'the Einstein of the cat world', the Abyssinian is broadly considered the cleverest of all the cat breeds. These smart felines are exceptionally curious, alert, and quick to learn. They enjoy puzzles, exploring their surroundings, opening things, and figuring out how household objects work (sometimes to the point of accidentally destroying them). | Getty Images
2. Cornish Rex
This distinctive cat breed is one of the friendliest breeds around - and has even been compared to a dog. A Devon Rex's long toes enable them to explore their curiosity by opening doors and cupboards. Both clever and sneaky. Their close cousin the Cornish Rex are also smart at learning tricks, solving puzzles, manipulating objects, and quickly understanding new games. | Canva/Getty Images
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3. Bengal
The brainy Bengal is a naturally highly intelligent, energetic problem-solver who can quickly learn routines, tricks, and games. They say that curiosity killed the cat, but these adventurous characters positively thrive in investigating everything. | AFP via Getty Images
4. Siamese
You'll know how clever your Siamese cat is because they'll not stop telling you! This is one of the most communicative breeds of cat and they'll chatter away happily for hours as they show off how much the've leared and how they are exceptional at remembering routines and solving problems. | Canva/Getty Images