Cat Lifespan Demystified: How Long Do Cats Live?

Although they might not have 9 lives, it’s not unusual for cats to take pleasure in the one life they’ve got for several years, even years. But just like people, many elements play crucial functions in extending or cutting a cat’s life expectancy, particularly genes, way of life and the sort of care their owners provide.

What Is the Average Cat Lifespan?

It’s tough to discover a conclusive response to this concern. Depending on which pet-expert source you prefer, you’ll see cat life expectancy approximates varying from 10 to 15 years to 12 to 18 years. PetMD divides the distinction by putting the typical feline life expectancy at 13 to 17 years.

Again, that’s an average. Plenty of individuals have cats who live to the age of 20 or perhaps older. Siamese, Russian Blue and Persian cats are simply a few of the longer-lived types, although Burmese are thought about on top tier of feline durability, residing on typical 18 to 25 years, with some uncommon overachievers supposedly making it to their 30s.

Tabby cats post reputable numbers, too. The oldest private record-holder, according to Guinness World Recordswas Creme Puff, a tabby mix in Texas, who passed away in 2005 at the indisputably age-old age of 38.

Who Lives Longer, Indoor or Outdoor Cats?

An indoor cat life expectancy might remain in the double digitshowever an outside cat life expectancy is shockingly short: just 2 to 5 years at finest. Sure, cats who spend the majority of their lives outside are less most likely to be inactive and they get loads of time in the fresh air and sunlight, which people are constantly informed to do for their health. On the other hand, a lot of people don’t need to stress over being hunted.

Even in a peaceful residential area, there are a lot of predators of cats, consisting of coyotes, foxes, dogs, raccoons and big birds of victim, such as owls and eagles. And yes, other cats, particularly wild cats, will stalk and eliminate their own kind.

Read More: How Long Can Cats Be Left Alone?

Plus, outside cats are at higher threat than their indoor brethren for getting any variety of possibly fatal parasites. And there are yet other ecological threats, not least of which is being struck by a vehicle — the top non-disease-related killer of outside cats.

How Many Cat Years Are in a Human Year?

Some unproven accounts inform of cats worldwide that can live into their early 30s. Currently, the oldest living cat, validated since 2022, is Flossiea now 27-year-old British cat, which Guinness promotes as “roughly the feline equivalent of 120 human years.”

Equating a cat’s age to a human’s is enjoyable, however eventually not a really precise method to consider your cat’s life expectancy. Some individuals simply use the very same “seven-year rule” that is typically utilized with dogs, where one year of your animal’s life is comparable to 7 of ours.

With cats, it’s been said that their very first year of life must be related to 15 human years, the 2nd year comparable to about 9 or ten years, and every year after that amounts to about 4 human years. The Internet has lots of animal age calculators you can utilize to play this video game.

But such estimations are just helpful for a basic quote of your cat’s durability. The truth is, the breed of cat, how well it’s been looked after, and how effectively it’s handled to prevent injury or disease will alter the outcomes of any pet-age approximation.

A cat that’s led a life outdoors without any owners, differed or restricted food and no healthcare might be dead in a simple handful of years or perhaps months, while lots of cats who have actually been well taken care of can take pleasure in an active physical and psychological life well into their 20s.

So don’t put your faith in human-year guesstimates. If you desire your cat to have a healthy, long life, there are more concrete actions you can take.

How to Help Your Cat Live Longer

For most dedicated owners, these actions might sound apparent, however good recommendations constantly bears duplicating.

Feed Your Cat Properly

Cats are notoriously picky eaters. You must follow their example and be specific about their diet plan also.

Any old off-the-shelf cat food might fill them up, but it may not serve their nutritional needs, especially as they get older. It’s always a good idea to talk to your vet about the right kinds of nutrition your cat needs, depending on their breed and age.

Also, make sure their water is changed daily. And while it’s okay to give your cat treats, experts recommend that those goodies make up no more than five or 10 percent of their diet.

Read More: 8 Do’s and Don’ts for Communicating with Your Cat

Keep Cats in the House …

As we’ve seen, indoor cats can live three or even four times longer than a cat that spends most or all of its time outdoors. While it may seem cruel to some owners to keep their feline pals under house arrest, statistics show the risk isn’t worth it.

Your indoor cat can still get fresh air and a taste of the outdoors in other ways: Set up a perch near a screened window. If you have an enclosed porch, make sure they get to spend time out there regularly. Many companies also sell outdoor cat enclosures — inevitably known as “catios” — where your feline can recline al fresco.

… But Give Them Plenty of Exercise

A sedentary cat is a short-lived cat. Obesity and lack of exercise are just as hard on their lifespan as they are on humans.

So, in addition to making sure they have balanced nutrition and not too many treats, it’s also important to provide your cat with opportunities for exercise.

Try to play with them for at least a couple of 15-minute sessions per day — an hour a day is ideal. And make sure they have toys that encourage them to run and play.

Cats Need Regular Medical Care

It’s a no-brainer that, just like people, your cat will need to see a doctor now and then. Regular checkups (as well as getting them spayed/neutered and keeping vaccinations up to date) are just about the most important thing you can do to give your cat their best chance at a long and healthy life.

Ideally, they must be getting a wellness examination every year, and many vets suggest a check-up every six months once your cat is over the age of 10. While most veterinarians are trained to treat cats, some owners prefer to take their kitties to veterinarians who specialize in feline medicine. The American Association of Feline Practitioners can help you find veterinarians associated with their Cat Friendly Practice program.

Read More: 5 Cats Who Owned Famous Scientists