If there’s one dream we animal lovers would like to realize, it’s that our faithful companions would live forever. However, we know that this is not possible. So, when you adopt a pet, it’s natural to wonder about its life expectancy.
Legend has it that cats have 9 lives. But until proven otherwise, they are not immortal. So, if you’re wondering what your cat’s life expectancy is, here’s the answer.
The life cycle of cats
Your cat is part of your family and you love him as such. That’s why it sometimes hurts to think that he too will age with time. We have to accept that, as with humans, for cats, aging is a natural part of the life cycle.
There’s no precise point at which a cat can be said to be older, but it’s generally considered so from the age of 7. The changes in a feline’s life cycle start from the inside and, over time, age progressively, just as happens to us.
Signs of aging in cats and reduced life expectancy
Cats don’t get wrinkles as they age. As a result, you’ll need to watch out for other types of symptoms that indicate they’ve reached an advanced age.
It is often said that cats reach old age at around 10-11 years. Here are some of the signs of an older cat:
- His hygiene is declining.
- He’s very moody.
- He lacks agility.
- Changes in behavior occur.
- Your cat is putting on weight.
- He eats less.
- The cat’s senses are affected.
- Appearance of certain diseases.
How long does a cat live?
Unlike a dog’s lifespan, which is greatly influenced by size and breed, these factors are not as important for cats.
In the wild, cats generally live an average of 2 to 7 years. That’s because they’re exposed to greater danger and insecurity. Indoors, on the other hand, a domestic cat can live between 12 and 18 years with the necessary care, and may even exceed this age.
We’ve counted cats that are over 30 years old! This was the case, for example, with Rubble, the cat who lived to be 31 years old.
Factors influencing cat life expectancy
Of course, there are factors that influence the animal’s life expectancy. Some conditions that influence a cat’s lifespan response:
- Physical condition
- The diet
- The lifestyle he leads
- If the cat is completely indoors or goes outdoors
- Genetic heritage
- Veterinary care
On the other hand, we mustn’t forget that there are times when we take perfect care of our pets, but certain diseases appear in them against which, despite doing everything we can to try and stop them, we unfortunately fail, with the worst consequences. In these cases, we shouldn’t feel guilty: we’ve done everything we can for our pet.
How to make my cat live longer
If the answer to a cat’s lifespan doesn’t convince you because you’d like your pet to live longer, we’re sorry to inform you that there’s no magic potion to make it last forever. However, you can help to prolong its average life and ensure that it is of high quality.
Watch out for the exits
It’s true that natural stimulation is very beneficial for animals, especially cats. But ideally, it should be restricted to a safe area (e.g. a garden with fences).
If your cat goes out unchecked, he may suffer accidents or other cats may spread diseases against which he may not be protected. This will shorten his life expectancy.
A good diet
Feline nutrition must be complete and balanced. What’s more, it has to be of the highest quality and adapted to each stage of their lives.
On the other hand, the quantity of food must be adequate for its characteristics. Being overweight in cats is a problem to be avoided, as it will also reduce the animal’s health.
Oral health
Poor oral health has a major impact on animal health. And it’s not just because of bad breath or the risk of losing teeth.
This is particularly important as the gums have a very abundant blood supply, and bacteria that accumulate in the mouth can be transported to organs such as the kidneys or liver, which can be fatal in some cases.
Vaccinations, deworming and health monitoring
In the answer to “how long does a cat live?”, you should stress the importance of veterinary visits.
Of course, to keep a cat healthy, its health must be checked by a professional. What’s more, you’ll need to respect your cat’s vaccination schedule and worm him.
Environmental enrichment
Your cat’s mental health also needs to be taken care of, as this also influences its life expectancy.
To achieve this, it is essential to enrich the cats’ environment. This should include all kinds of elements with which the cat can interact and have fun: cat tree, scratching posts, toys, etc. But their interaction with humans and other animals is also necessary.
In addition, elements such ascatnip can be included in environmental enrichment.
Quiet, clean environment
In addition to the above, cats need to live in a calm, healthy environment. This means avoiding loud noises near him, shouting at him or disturbing him. Keep the litter tray clean, as cats are nervous and stressed by dirt.
Cat breeds with a long life expectancy
Although, as we’ve said, breed isn’t always the determinant of superior longevity, there are some whose average lifespan generally stands out from the rest.
This is the case of the Siamese cat (it can reach 20 years), the Ocicat (with a life expectancy of 16 to 19 years) and the Savannah (it can also reach 20 years).
But, as we’ve mentioned, in general, well-cared-for cats lucky enough not to be confronted with hereditary or incurable diseases easily outlive 10 years.
Do you have other questions about your hairballs? Please let us know in the comments, and we’ll be happy to reply!
