If there is a dream that we pet lovers would love to come true, it is that our faithful companions would last forever. However, we know that this is not possible. Therefore, in the case of having felines, it is normal to ask ourselves how long a cat lives. We clarify your doubts!
The life cycle of cats
Your feline is part of your family and you adore him as such. So sometimes it hurts to think that he too will get older over time. We must accept that, as in humans, aging is something natural for cats within the life cycle.
There is no exact moment in which it can be said that a cat is already older, but this is usually considered this way after 7 years. The changes in the life cycle of the feline start from the inside and, over time, they gradually age as we do.
Signs of old age in cats
Kittens don’t get wrinkles when they get older. Therefore, it will be necessary to pay attention to other types of symptoms that do indicate that they have reached old age.
It is usually stated that cats reach old age around 10-11 years. These are some of the signs of an elderly cat:
- His hygiene is decreasing.
- They have a very moody mood.
- They lack agility.
- Changes occur in their behavior.
- Weight gain.
- Eat less.
- The cat’s senses are affected.
- The appearance of certain diseases.
How long does a cat live?
Unlike how long a dog lives, in which its size and breed influence a lot, in cats, the average number of cats is usually wider and these factors do not matter so much.
In the wild, cats usually live an average of 2 to 7 years. This is because they are exposed to more dangers and precariousness. On the other hand, indoors, a domestic cat can live between 12 and 18 years with the necessary care, being able to exceed that figure.
There have been cases that have passed 30! For example, so it was with Rubble, the cat who lived to be 31 years old.
Factors that influence the life expectancy of the cat
Of course, there are factors that influence the life expectancy of the animal. Some conditioning factors that will influence the response to how long a cat lives are:
- Your physical condition.
- The race also plays a role.
- The diet.
- The lifestyle you lead.
- Whether it is a completely indoor cat or it goes outside.
- Genetic heritage.
- Veterinary care.
On the other hand, we must not forget that there are occasions when we take care of our pets perfectly, but certain diseases appear in them against which, despite doing everything to try to stop them, unfortunately, we did not achieve it with the worst of consequences. . In those cases we should not feel guilty about it: we have done everything possible for our pet.
How to make my cat live longer
If the answer to how long a cat life does not convince you because you would like your pet to live longer, we are sorry to inform you that there is no magic potion to make it eternal. However, you can help it to extend its half-life and make it of quality.
Beware of exits
It is true that natural stimulation is very beneficial for the animal, but ideally, it is limited to a safe area (for example, a garden with fences).
If they go outside without control, they can suffer accidents or other cats infect them with diseases against which they may not be protected. That will decrease your life expectancy.
A good diet
The feline diet must be complete and balanced. In addition, it has to be of quality and according to each stage of your life.
On the other hand, the amount of food must be adequate for its characteristics. An overweight cat is a problem to be avoided, as also it erodes the health of the animal.
Oral health
Poor oral health influences (and greatly) the health of animals. And this is not only bad because of bad breath or the chances of losing teeth.
It is especially important because the gums have a very abundant blood supply and the bacteria that accumulate in the mouth can be transported to organs such as the kidneys or the liver and can be fatal in some cases.
Vaccines, deworming, and health monitoring.
The answer to “how long does a cat live” should include a device that highlights the importance of feline visits to the vet.
Of course, to keep a cat healthy, its health must be checked by a professional. In addition, they will have to comply with their vaccination schedule, be dewormed, and detect problems in time that they can be treated.
Environmental enrichment
The mental health of the animal must also be taken care of, as this also influences its life expectancy.
For this, a suitable environmental enrichment for cats will be essential. This must be made up of all kinds of elements with which the cat can interact and have fun: scratchers, toys, etc. But their interaction with people and other animals is also necessary.
In addition, environmental enrichment can include elements such as catnip, the catnip that drives most cats crazy with joy.
Quiet and clean environment
In addition to the above, cats need to live in a calm and healthy environment. That means avoiding loud noises around him, yelling at him, or bothering him.
Your objects and litter box should be kept clean, as dirt makes cats nervous and stressed.
Longest-lived cat breeds
Although, as we have said, each particular case is different and race is not always the determining factor for superior longevity, there are some whose average lifespan tends to stand out above others.
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 reach 20 years as well).
But, as we mentioned, in general, cats that are well cared for and that are fortunate enough not to face hereditary or non-treatable diseases easily exceed 10 years.
Now you know how long a cat lives, but also that in order for it to live as long as possible, you must take good care of your pet!
