For many pet owners, a cat is more than just a companion; they’re a member of the family. Their affectionate, independent and playful personalities make them a beloved addition to households around the world. As with any family member, we cat owners begin to wonder how much longer we have left with our felines, and we often want to know, “How long do cats live?”
The answer to this question is more complicated than it may seem, and there are a number of factors that affect a cat’s lifespan. In this blog, we’ll talk you through everything that can affect your cat’s life expectancy, from genetics to environmental factors. We’ll also tell you what you can do to help your furry friend live the longest, healthiest life possible.
Help your cats make the most of life with our range of cat healthcare products here at VetUK.
What is the average cat lifespan?
The average cat’s life expectancy is around 12 to 18 years, but there are a number of factors that can make this shorter or longer.
Outdoor cats
Outdoor cats typically have shorter lifespans of around 10 years due to the added dangers associated with venturing outside. When we refer to outdoor cats, these are felines that spend the majority of their time outside.
Some factors that influence outdoor cat lifespans include:
- Vehicle accidents,
- Predators like wild animals or dogs
- Diseases like FIV
- Harsh weather, like snow or extreme heat.
- Poisoning from toxic plants or chemicals. To find out which plants are poisonous to cats, we have a dedicated blog to read up on here.
Indoor cats
Indoor cats, particularly well-cared-for cats, can live into their 20s as they have the benefits of safety and protection from a lot of threats and illness. Indoor cats are also safe from fights with other outdoor cats that can lead to injury and infection, and receive regular veterinary care and food.
Many pet owners want their cats to enjoy the benefits of the outdoors without the added risks, and so supervised outdoor time is often an alternative. Cats can enjoy a fenced-off garden or walking on a lead to get that all-important stimulation whilst staying safe.
What factors affect a cat’s lifespan?
There are a number of factors that can combine to affect how long a cat lives.
1. Genetics
Some cats have genes that allow them to live longer, healthier lives, whilst other cat breeds are vulnerable to genetic conditions. Persian cats, for example, are more likely to develop respiratory issues.
2. Diet
Ensuring you feed your cat a regimen of healthy cat foods and a balanced diet with vitamins and protein can help support a long, healthy life for your cat. Poor nutrition or obesity can increase the risk of complications like diabetes and heart disease and shorten a cat’s lifespan. Outdoor cats who have to scavenge or indoor cats who are overfed run a higher risk of developing serious health issues.
3. Veterinary Care
Regular vet check-ups can help to detect any medical issues early, and a care plan and veterinary medicine can be introduced to ensure your cat stays healthy. Vaccinations, dental check-ups and annual evaluations can significantly increase how long a cat lives.
4. Lifestyle and Environment
Providing your cat a clean, safe environment not only helps them to feel calm and comfortable, but it also helps to keep cats immune systems strong and fight against any illness.
5. Spaying or neutering your cat
Reproductive issues or conditions like cancer are more common in cats that are not neutered or spayed. Neutering cats can help prolong their life by reducing the chance of reproductive problems.
How does lifespan differ among cat breeds?
As with dogs, different cat breeds have different life spans. Certain breeds are more prone to genetic health conditions, which can result in a shorter lifespan. Here are some of the breeds that are known to have longer lifespans.
- Domestic Shorthairs – 14 – 20 years
- Russian Blue – 15 – 20 years
- Siamese – 15 – 20 years
- Ragdoll – 12 – 17 years
- European Shorthair – 15 – 22 years
Do female cats live longer than male cats?
Research has indicated that female cats, on average, live 1.3 years longer than male cats. This is furthered when female cats are spayed and have regular health check-ups, too. Of course, many of the factors above can influence the lifespan of female cats, but generally speaking, they live longer than boy cats.
How to increase your cat’s lifespan
Although many genetic factors play a role in how long cats live, there are many aspects that pet owners can control to help extend their furry friend’s time with you.
1. Provide a balanced, nutritious diet
Make sure you’re feeding your cat the right cat foods with vitamins, minerals and protein to help support them. You can also invest in cat supplements if your cat is lacking a vitamin from its diet or needs an extra boost.
Limit the amount of treats you give your cat and avoid feeding them human food like chicken unless it’s a special occasion, or a small amount of boiled chicken when they’re sick.
Always ensure that your cat has access to fresh, clean water. You can place cat water fountains indoors and outside for your cat if they prefer to drink flowing water.
2. Keep your cat at a healthy weight
Overweight and underweight cats tend to have shorter lifespans due to the health complications associated with these issues. Ensure you feed your cat the correct portion size for their age and weight.
Use a range of enriching cat toys to keep your cat active and offer them plenty of space to run around and explore.
If you think your cat is putting on too much weight or is showing signs of being underweight, get in touch with your vet, and they can provide a treatment plan or offer dietary cat foods.
3. Arrange regular vet check-ups
Annual check-ups are the best way to detect any health problems in your cat before they become too serious. For young cats and cats in their prime, annual vet check-ups are recommended, with more regular check-ups for senior cats.
Staying up to date with vaccinations, flea treatment, and worming treatment will also keep your cat protected.
4. Stay on top of dental care
We know it’s not an easy task, but if your cat will let you, regular teeth brushing can help improve dental hygiene and prevent future issues. If they’re not open to brushing, you can also purchase dental treats that help to break down and prevent plaque buildup. Senior cats in particular encounter more dental issues, which may mean they need professional teeth cleaning.
5. Create a loving, stimulating environment
Playing with your cat and showing them affection can help them feel better mentally and physically. Dedicate time each day to play with your cat with toys and give them fuss. Offering perches, scratching posts, and interactive cat toys will also help your cats feel enriched and entertained at times they can’t play with you.
6. Keep your cat indoors
We’ve already mentioned the many dangers outdoor cats face, and we’ve also discussed that indoor cats generally live longer. To keep your cat safe, consider keeping them indoors or limiting outdoor time to supervised outings with a lead or enclosed garden spaces.
What are the signs that your cat is ageing?
Cats are exceptionally good at hiding any pain or problems, so being able to identify the signs of ageing can help you implement a care plan for your senior cat. Common behaviour and health indicators of a senior cat include:
- Reduced playfulness and energy
- Increased sleeping
- Weight gain or weight loss
- Bad breath or dental problems
- Difficulty jumping, running or climbing
- Changes in appetite, e.g being less interested in food
Whilst these indicators are not necessarily causes for major concern, recognising these characteristics in your cat is an indicator that they are now a senior cat, and as such, you should adjust your care plan to make them more comfortable as they grow older.
Help your cat live longer with the right care
Now that you know how long cats live, you can expect to enjoy time with your feline friend for up to two decades! With the right veterinary care, diet and environment, you can extend your cat’s lifespan and ensure they have a happy, healthy life.
Whilst you can’t control every factor, the right cat care products are crucial for your fluffy feline. At VetUK, we have a wide range of products for cats and kittens that help them stay healthy, from food to accessories.
If you’re not sure what your cat needs based on its age and breed, our experts are here to help at VetUK. Get in touch with our team, and we can point you to the best products for your pets.
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