Are you looking for long living cat breeds? Well, you are not alone. Every cat owner wants their feline friends to live forever. But unfortunately, cats have a very short lifespan as compared to us humans.
Got upset? Don’t be!
There are some cat breeds that tend to live longer due to their genetic makeup. Moreover, you can improve your cat’s lifespan by taking great care of them and spaying or neutering them before they reach puberty. In addition to improving their lifespan, spaying or neutering also reduces the risk of many serious health issues such as ovarian cancer (in female cats) and prostate cancer (in male cats).
Indoor Cats Live Longer Than Outdoor Cats
Did you know that indoor cats live longer than their outdoor counterparts? That is true! Statistics show that indoor cats have a longer lifespan as compared to outdoor cats. According to US Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, on average, where the outdoor cats live from two to five years, house cats live from ten to fifteen years. This is because outdoor cats are at a higher risk of being victims of outdoor hazards—such as being hit by cars, getting attacked by other cats and predators, or contracting deadly infectious diseases.
Long Living Cat Breeds
Some cat breeds tend to live significantly longer than the average lifespan of cats. If you have been looking for a cat breed that lives longer, below is a list of the top 10 long-living cat breeds.
1. Egyptian Mau
Originating from Egypt, Egyptian Mau is one of the most athletic and agile cats. They have an average lifespan of 18 to 20 years, according to VCA Hospital. They have a spotted coat and gooseberry-colored eyes. They take their time in making friends, but after some time, they become an integral part of the family.
2. Ragdoll Cat
Ragdoll is relatively a new cat breed. It was recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) only in 1993. However, in recent years, Ragdoll has been enjoying a vehement increase in its popularity. In fact, they are the second-fastest growing cat breed in The International Cat Association, the world’s largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats. Taylor Swift, a devoted cat lover, has also adopted a Ragdoll cat named Benjamin Button. The average lifespan of a Ragdoll cat is 15 to 25 years.
3. Burmese
Do you know what the longest living cat breed is? Well, it is none else than the Burmese cat. The official record of the oldest living cat holder is a Burmese cat. The average lifespan of Burmese cats is 15 to 20 years. However, if kept under excellent care, they can live well into their thirties. They easily get along with children and love to play fetch. They are prone to get obese; therefore, you need to be extra cautious about their diet plan and physical activities.
4. Sphynx
Alien in appearance, Sphynx cats are completely hairless. For this reason, they are quite popular among those prone to catching allergies. These extremely friendly cats are descendants of two lines of natural mutations in domestic cats, occurring in Minnesota and Toronto. You must be wondering how long do Sphynx cats live? Well, the average lifespan of Sphynx cats is 15 to 20 years. As compared to long-haired cats, they have a higher metabolism and, therefore, need to eat more to maintain good health and body weight.
5. American Shorthair
These cats came to the New World with the European Settlers on the Mayflower ship. Like their Sphynx cousins, they are also amiable cats and like to follow their favorite people everywhere. They make a perfect fit for families with children. They like to forage for food and love to play food puzzles. The average lifespan of an American Shorthair cat is also 15 to 20 years.
6. Oriental Shorthair
Feline versions of Greyhounds, Oriental Shorthair cats are intelligent and outgoing cats. They would love to accompany you on morning walks. Their active lifestyle promises them longevity. The average lifespan of Oriental Shorthair cats is around 15 to 20 years. They love perching on high places but make no mistake; they won’t even feel guilty for climbing on high spaces like bookshelves, refrigerators, and doors, etc., and breaking some stuff. Therefore, only bring them home if you won’t have any problem with their cute mischiefs.
7. Himalayan
The Himalayan cat breed is one of the most popular cat breeds with stripes. Their wild look with striped coats makes them a perfect choice for feline fanatics who love wild cats. Their active lifestyle keeps them in shape. After a playtime session, Himalayan cats love to take a nap in a warm lap. The average lifespan of Himalayan cats is 15 to 18 years. But if kept with great care and under supervision, they can live well into their twenties.
8. Manx
The Manx cat breed is known for having no tail. They lost their tail due to a natural mutation but according to the feline fables, while boarding the Noah’s ark, Noah accidentally shut the door and cut her tail. Whatever the story behind their lack of tail may be, what is known is their longevity. The average life span of a Manx cat is around 15 to 18 years. They come with shorthair as well as longhair coats. They are easygoing and even-tempered cats.
9. Siamese
Have you ever heard a Siamese making a sound resembling a human baby’s cry? It’s endearing. Siamese is one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds. They are known for their loyal, engaging, and affectionate nature. They are also known and adored for their intelligence. The average lifespan of a Siamese cat is 12 to 15 years, but a healthy Siamese can easily make it to her twenties.
Apart from a longer lifespan, Siamese cats have another honor to their name: Being a part of the White House. Yes, Siamese has occupied the presidential mansion during the tenures of Rutherford B. Hayes, Gerald Ford, and Jimmy Carter.
10. Bengal Cats
Bengal cats are famous for their tiger-shaped striped coats. They are created by the crossbreeding of domestic cats and the Asian Leopard Cat. It is a perfect option for those who want to keep leopard pets. The average lifespan of Bengal Cats is 12 to 15 years. These are highly active, intelligent, and attentive cats. They watch, learn, and try to emulate what their owners do. In recent years, Bengal cats have been enjoying a rush of popularity. Like Oriental Shorthair Cats, they also love perching on high places.
That was all about long living cat breeds. Did you find your perfect partner in the list? Let us know!
