Cats are like people - they can be friendly, they can be aloof and they can even be bad tempered.
There is no way to know what a cat will be like by looking at it, but breeders and animal behaviourists have found over extensive studies that, as a rule, pedigree cats often share certain personality traits.
This has led them to be able to say with some confidence that a certain breed is friendlier than others are and here are ten that are rates amongst the friendliest.
Abyssinian The Abyssinian is a supermodel cat with a sleek and graceful body shape and stunning, unique coat called a ticked tabby.
Not only do they look great, but also they are friendly and outgoing cats that accept all the people they come across and love to play.
Some enjoy water and going for a swim and they are very loyal to their owners, lavishing affection on them.
The only downside is that they are expensive to buy! Birman The Birman is a people cat that has a strong bond with its owner and is very loyal to them.
They are also very inquisitive cats who love to join in whatever their owner is doing, often following them around the house.
They are sophisticated looking cats who love to play games! Burmese The Burmese are known for their dog-like behaviours, retrieving items and following people around like a faithful pooch.
They also bond strongly with their owners but are always friendly with everyone they meet, retaining a kitten-like demeanour during their lives.
Chantilly The Chantilly, also known as the Tiffany, is a modern breed originating in France.
They are a little cautious around strangers but otherwise very friendly and relaxed cats.
They are a middle ground cat that are neither too active nor too laid back.
Exotic Shorthair The Exotic Shorthair, or Persian in Pyjamas, is essentially a shorthair version of the Persian breed that has the same squashed facial features and placid temperament.
They are very gentle and affectionate cats who love everyone and are great with kids due to their calm nature.
Maine Coon The Maine Coon is a gentle giant, one of the largest breeds of domestic cat with a thick, long coat and a high intelligence.
They are great hunters and love to play with their owners, forming strong and loyal bonds with them.
Manx Manx are famous as the tailless cat but do come with small, stumpy tails.
They are athletic cats with a powerful jumping ability and quick running speed, meaning they love to jump, run and play.
They love to play with their owners and lavish affection on them as well as being noted for their intelligence.
Persian The Persian may look placid and a little dopey but that cute squashed face hides a sharp mind.
These cats are placid by choice only and opt for the relaxed, laid back approach to life.
They need human companionship and can become depressed if left for long periods of time but respond to their owners with enthusiasm and affection.
They are also good with both children, other pets and even other cats.
Ragdoll The Ragdoll often wins the cuddliest cat competition due to its trait of going limp when picked up, like a child's toy.
They are very good at learning tricks and love to wow their owners with what they have learned.
They are also a big cat but very gentle with it.
Somali The Somali is a cat that loves the spotlight and likes to be the centre of attention.
They remains playful and kitten-like even into adult years and love to play but their first choice is a good cuddle and lavish affection on their owners.