Cats are typically seen as loving companions in many households, and the oldest living cat on record is 38 years old! Although cats generally live longer than dogs – with the oldest cat alive today being 27 – understanding how long a cat typically lives can help you make informed decisions about your pet’s health. In this article, we will discuss the average lifespan of cats and what to look out for in older age cats, including common diseases that can affect their longevity.
Average lifespan of cats
When it comes to determining the average lifespan of cats, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. A cat’s life expectancy will depend on many factors such as breed, diet, lifestyle and preventive care. Generally, cats tend to live between 13 and 15 years, with some breeds having an even longer life span. For instance, Siamese cats can often live up to 20 years and Maine Coon cats may live up to 25 years.
However, there has been evidence that cats adopted from shelters can live longer than those purchased from breeders due to their genetic diversity. This was demonstrated in a study where 60% of the cats adopted from shelters were still alive after 11 years, compared to only 36% of cats purchased from breeders.
In addition, recent studies have also found that spaying or neutering your cat can increase their lifespan by up to 3 years, whereas leaving them unaltered may shorten their lifespan by 5 years. This makes sense as cats who reproduce more frequently will have more stress placed on their bodies.
Another factor that affects a cat’s lifespan is their environment. Cats kept indoors typically live longer than cats allowed to roam outdoors, so if you want your feline friend to live a long and healthy life, keeping them inside is recommended.
Common Diseases That May Affect Your Cat’s Lifespan
Unfortunately, cats can be susceptible to a number of diseases and illnesses throughout their lifetime. The most common diseases that cats experience include kidney failure, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, respiratory infections, and urinary tract infections.
- Kidney failure is the leading cause of death in cats over 8 years of age because the kidneys lose their ability to filter toxins from the body.
- Diabetes can also be problematic for cats and is caused by either the pancreas not producing sufficient insulin or the body becoming resistant to it.
- Cancer is another serious concern for cats and the risk increases with age. It most commonly manifests itself as lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma and breast cancer.
- Additionally, cats are also prone to developing heart disease, which can lead to congestive heart failure (CHF).
- Finally, cats can also suffer from respiratory and urinary tract infections, both of which can lead to complications if left untreated.
Tips for keeping your cat healthy and happy
If you want to ensure your beloved feline friend lives a long and happy life, there are a few things you can do.
Firstly, it is important to keep up with regular vet check-ups to detect any potential health issues early on and catch diseases before they become too serious.
It is also a good idea to provide your cat with plenty of exercise, playtime and stimulation. Regularly playing and spending time with your cat helps keep them active and mentally stimulated, which can help ward off depression and boredom.
Additionally, providing your cat with a balanced diet is essential. Cats need a high-quality diet that is rich in proteins and vitamins, so ensure you are feeding them food specifically designed for felines. Also, make sure you have plenty of fresh water available at all times.
Finally, make sure your cat is properly vaccinated to protect them against contagious diseases. Vaccinating your cat regularly can help reduce the risk of serious health problems, making it an essential part of their preventative care plan.
Having a cat as a pet can be incredibly rewarding, but it is important to consider how long they typically live when bringing one home. On average, cats tend to live between 13 and 15 years but with proper care, nutrition and medical attention, some cats can live much longer. Understanding the common diseases affecting cats and taking steps to keep them healthy and happy can go a long way towards ensuring a long and healthy life for your feline companion.
