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How Long Do Cats Live?

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As much as we want them to, our beloved kitties cannot live forever. Cats live much shorter lives than humans, and their individual lifespans depend on a number of factors. The good news is that, by making smart lifestyle choices, you can help your cats live longer

How long do cats live?

Average Lifespan of a Cat

First, are we talking about an indoor cat or an outdoor cat? As we would expect, indoor cats tend to live longer. Cat care website ICatCare.org tells us that cats live an average of 12-14 years, and many live even longer. The Guinness World Record holder Creme Puff lived to be an astounding 38 years and 3 days old! "According to the cat rescue organization Forgotten Cats, "The average lifespan for a feral cat is estimated to be 10 years." 

Factors That Affect a Cat's Lifespan

Certain breeds, such as Maine Coon Cats, are genetically predisposed to diseases like diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or heart disease that reduce their lifespan. On the other hand, several cat breeds, such as the Burmese, the Ragdoll, and the Persian, have a longer lifespan than the average cat. Whether your cat has genetics on her side or not, there are several ways you can help your cat live longer.

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How can you help a cat live longer? Regular vet visits!

First, ensure that you take your cat to the vet for regular checkups. Even if your cat appears to be perfectly healthy, checkups will help your vet diagnose serious disease in the early stages. This will increase your cat's chances of successful treatment and thus increase her lifespan as well. In one Catster article, Dr. Leanne Landau Kasitz explains, "A cat’s lifespan can be extended by good veterinary care. Wellness exams every six months with blood work for early disease detection can help manage diseases such as kidney disease, which is common in cats, or hyperthyroidism."

When you take your cat to the vet, she should receive vaccinations for common diseases and have her blood tested for diseases and deficiencies. This will help extend her life!


What can you do to extend the lifespan of a cat? Good nutrition goes a long way.

For the best quality of life, your cat needs to eat a balanced diet. Because cats are obligate carnivores, a major part of their diet should be animal-based protein. Avoid feeding your cat too many carbohydrates, since these can cause intestinal issues such as diarrhea. If your cat is elderly or has special medical issues, ask your vet if you need to modify her diet. As always, good dental care is a must. And playing with your cat will help her maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity-related diseases.

If you were wondering how long cats live, we hope these simple guidelines answered your questions! With a loving family, good nutrition, and regular vet visits, you can help your fur baby live a long, happy life.

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