How Long Do Cats Live?
Tips to Extend Your Cats Life

We are often asked: "how long do cats live?" A very broad and simple answer would be 5 - 20 years! The reality is there are numerous factors that determine 'cat age' or the life span of a cat.

Feral cats are exposed to the elements and have a short life expectancy. Pampered indoor cats may live to the ripe age of 20 years. Naturally, there are exceptions to every rule and we have read about cats that have lived for over 30 years.

Cat life span can be affected by any of the following:

• indoor cats vs the outdoor cats
• cat nutrition
• cat health and cat care
• cat breed and related genetics

How long do cats live?

It must be noted, that the cat life span information below are averages. Many factors ultimately determine the life expectancy of your cat. Some cat breeds do suffer from hereditary or genetic conditions which may reduce the cat's life span.

How long do cats live? With good veterinary healthcare, medicines, cat nutrition and a dedicated cat owner, cat's can live to 15 years or more.

Indoor Cat vs Outdoor Cat

Cats that are kept indoors do tend to live longer simply because they are not exposed to outdoor dangers. Outdoor cats (i.e. cats that are allowed to roam the neighborhood) are exposed to dangers which will greatly reduce their life span:

• Infectious cat diseases such as feline leukemia virus, feline immunodeficiency virus and rabies
• Trauma or injuries caused by fights with other cats
• Injuries caused by dog bites
• Injuries and fatalities from road traffic accidents
• Poisoning of the cat by unfriendly neighbors
• Increased exposure to parasitic infestations like fleas, ticks and intestinal worms

Cats that live indoors have their own challenges. Boredom may result in the cat becoming destructive. A lack of exercise may result in weight gain and obesity and an increased incidence of bladder infections.

How long do cats live? A safe environment with exercise will greatly extend the life expectancy of your cat.

Cat Nutrition

A cat that receives a well balanced diet and fresh water is unlikely to suffer from dietary related cat illnesses. There has been incredible advancement in the field of cat nutrition. Today the cat lover has a choice of cat food to feed their cat - dry cat food, canned cat food and even raw cat food. Manufacturers of cat foods produce special veterinary diets. These foods can be breed specific, or for particular conditions related to the gastro intestinal tract, diabetes, arthritis, kidney problems and even cat food for hairball reduction and weight loss.

How long do cats live? A well balanced diet is critical and will assist in keeping your cat healthy and extending its life.

Cat Age Calculator

Fun stuff! If you want to calculate cat age in human years then do use this cat age calculator:

Cat Health and Cat Care

Responsible cat owners ensure that their cats visit the veterinarian at least once a year. During this routine visit the vet will do a complete physical examination of the cat. A comprehensive history from the cat owner will provide the vet with information regarding the cat's general health. The cat should receive its annual cat vaccinations, de-worming treatment and a dental check-up. Early detection of any medical condition will mean early treatment and possibly extend the life span of the cat.

Cats that are spayed or castrated also tend to live longer. Neutering will diminish the cat's desire to seek a mate and wander the neighborhood. It is also believed to reduce the development of certain cancers.

How long do cats live? Cat age can be extended if your cat receives regular check-ups and prophylactic treatment for common infectious diseases. Regular grooming will assist with the early detection of external parasites (ticks and fleas) and allow the cat owner to treat the problem.