He might not look like the most genial chap, and he certainly is not the prettiest. 

But experts have revealed that the hairless Sphynx cat is actually the friendliest and most affectionate of all the creatures. 

An study published in an American journal has ranked breeds of cats according to their friendliness, from the most affectionate to the least.

Despite their reputation as aloof and solitary creatures, who begrudgingly bestow affection on their owners, the study, published in the Journal of Veterinary behaviour, found that many are much more friendly than they have ever been given credit for.

Those revealed as the most unfriendly were non-pedigree, crossbreed 'moggies' — also known as domestic short-haired cats — Britain's most common variety.