Longest Living Cat Breeds: A Guide to Felines with Nine Lives

The longest-living cat breeds often live around 20 years old, but that can be much longer given the proper nutrition, exercise, and environment. How long a cat lives depends on a number of factors, most notably their food and activity level. But there are other things to keep in mind if you want your cat to live a long and healthy life, regardless of breed. Here are some things to keep in mind if you want your cat to live long.

 

 

What Are the Longest Living Cat Breeds?

Some cat breeds live longer than others due to their large gene pools and genetics. Here are some of the cat breeds that are known to live the longest, along with their specific cat lifespan:

 

 

 

Siamese

Siamese cats known to live up to 20 years. Their biggest known health issues are related to their teeth, so remember to brush their teeth daily. The Siamese is a vocal kitty and will always let you know how they're feeling. They are very social and loyal, so you'll have a friend for life.

 

 

Persian

Persian cats can live up to 17 years with proper care. Their most common health concerns involve their breathing due to their flat faces, so regular vet checkups are important. Persians are quiet and gentle, preferring calm environments. They love lounging and being pampered, making them perfect lap cats. Daily grooming is a must to keep their long coats looking beautiful.

 

 

Burmese

This is another social and loving cat that will become your best friend. Burmese cats are known to live about 18 years. A common health concern is glaucoma, but they're generally a healthy breed.

 

 

Savannah Cat

This exotic breed lives about 20 years. It's part African serval, meaning it has an energetic personality. The Savannah Cat is known to get a bit mischievous and playful but is fully domesticated.

 

 

Egyptian Mau

The Egyptian Mau is one of the oldest breeds in the world, spotted in ancient Egyptian art. This breed is known to live around 15 years old. They are social and playful, making them a great addition to any family that has time to spend with them.

 

 

Ragdoll

Ragdoll cats also live around 15 years old. They are very fluffy and stunning cats that are known to flop around like a ragdoll, hence the name. This kitty is friendly and trusting, making them great family companions.

 

 

Russian Blue

Living about 20 years, this breed is the purrfect addition to most families. This is a quiet, reserved breed that loves spending time just lounging around in the sun or atop their favorite cat tree. They are prone to eye problems and bladder stones, so always bring them for regular checkups.

 

 

What is the Average Lifespan of a Cat?

The average cat life expectancy varies based on its environment. A cat who lives indoors will live longer than an outdoor cat. But there are other things at play, too, including a cat's diet, activity levels, and genetics. Cats who have regular vet visits also live longer on average than cats who don't:

 

• Indoor Cats: The average lifespan of cat indoors is 10 to 15 years (like the Manx). But many indoor cats are known to live much longer. Indoor cats have longer lives because they don't deal with as many health and safety issues as cats exposed to the outside world. But indoor cats still need proper nutrition and exercise in order to live long, happy lives.
• Outdoor Cats: A lot of people are shocked to find out that the average cat life span of an outdoor cat is two to five years. Cats should be kept inside for a multitude of reasons, all of which can play a big role in shortening a cat's life.
• Stray Cats: Cats who are let outside can come into contact with feral and stray cats. These cat colonies can give your cat a multitude of diseases if they get in a fight. Even a simple scratch can give your cat FIV, which is a fatal disease that will leave your cat sick and unable to be around other cats ever again.

 

 

What Can Impact the Lifespan of a Cat?

There are many important factors when it comes to your cat's lifespan. This includes diet and health, exercise and playtime, and their environment. Cats live much longer when kept indoors. They also live longer lives when they are fixed. There's data that shows that neutered male cats live 62% longer than unneutered males. Spayed female cats live 39% longer than unspayed female cats.

 

 

What Can I Do to Help My Cat Live Longer?

Cats will live longer lives when given the proper care. There are certain essential things to keep in mind if you want your cat to be healthier and live many more years. Here are some things to remember.

 

 

Proper Diet

Whether you provide your cat with wet food or dry food, it's important to remember that your cat needs certain ingredients to have a balanced diet. The first thing your cat needs is protein. The first ingredient in the food you pick should be a protein source, including chicken, salmon, or lamb. Taurine is another essential ingredient that your cat needs to have proper health.

 

 

Keep Them Inside

Indoor cats live longer because there are fewer health risks for cats that aren't exposed to outside dangers. But indoor cats still need certain things to stay happy and healthy. Provide your cat with cat trees and shelves, so they have more area to explore. Give them plenty of toys and other things to stimulate them as well.

 

 

Playtime

Cats need about 30 minutes of exercise a day to be healthy. Set aside time every day to play with your cat, whether it be shaking a ribbon for them or throwing toys down the hall. Your cat will love spending time with you and their health will benefit from running around. Also, provide your cat with plenty of cuddles and pets to keep them happy and stimulated.

 

 

Fix Them

You should always fix your cats. This will improve their life expectancy and remove a lot of health risks. Fixed cats will also have a better personality and be friendlier. Of course, fixing cats will also reduce the chance of producing more kittens. Over 2.7 million kittens are euthanized in shelters each year.

 

 

Regular Checkups

Cats never seem to be in pain. In fact, cats are known for being experts at hiding their pain and discomfort. But cats need regular checkups to keep on top of their health. An annual checkup is important to stay on top of possible health issues or complications. If your cat has any issues, a vet will discover it early and provide a treatment plan to keep your cat healthy.

 

 

Can I Give My Cat CBD?

A lot of people provide their cats with CBD to keep them calm and reduce negative behavior. Regular CBD (like twice a day) will keep your cat from being aggressive or destructive. CBD oil for cats along with other CBD products for cats can also reduce stress and nervousness. Holistapet's CBD cat treats are also a great option for cats with physical discomfort and joint inflammation.

 

 

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are a lot of variables when it comes to the longest-living cat breeds. It's important to provide your cat with a healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and an enriching, stimulating life indoors if you want them to live 20 years or more. No matter what breed your cat is, they can live longer and more fulfilling lives if you give them the care they need and ensure they have regular vet visits scheduled each year.