The Pet Food Manufacturers' Association (PFMA) chiefs say this means that the UK now has 17 million pet-owning homes, with the majority owning either a cat or a dog – or both.
There are now around 12million pet cats in the UK, with a whole range of breeds prized by feline fans.
Here are the 10 most popular breeds according to price comparison site GoCompare.
9. Sphynx
Created by selective breeding starting in the 1960s, the Sphynx Cat is known for its lack of hair - a naturally occuring genetic mutation - and is the ninth favourite cat breed in the UK. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
10. Russian Blue
The coat of the Russian Blue Cat, which completes our top 10, can vary from a light silver to a slate grey. It sheds very little hair and so is perfect for those with allergies. Photo: Canva/Getty Images