How long do cats live The lifespan of cats is increasing. Cats now live to be over 15 years old, and in some cases over 20, thanks to advancements in diet and veterinary science, such as immunizations and therapeutic drugs. Life expectancy is influenced by a variety of factors, one of which is whether or not your cat spends its entire life outside.
Getting to know your cat may take some time. Even the most seasoned cat owner often struggles to understand the complicated variety of behaviors that cats exhibit.
How long a cat can live on average, though, is the one query that has a somewhat solid answer.
normal cat life expectancy
Despite the myth that cats have nine lives, a cat’s lifespan can be affected by things including diet, medical care, and habitat. Because neutering eliminates reproductive problems and makes cats less likely to stray, neutered cats typically live longer.
Despite being largely dependent on luck, some domestic cats can survive for up to 20 years. They will go through six major life stages, which may help owners identify potential health or behavioral issues and things to watch out for.
Life stages of cats
Kitten (up to six months)
This is the ideal time to expose your cat to a wide variety of new experiences, including other pets, household noises, being handled and brushed, as well as getting them used to young children.
This is when you’ll watch them go through their fastest growth spike. For the purpose of preventing unwanted litters, now is a good time to neuter your pet.
Junior (6 months – 2 years)
During this time, your cat will grow to its maximum size and reach sexual maturity.
Playing properly with your pet is crucial since it will educate them how to interact amicably with people. To avoid playing rough and tumble activities with your cat, make sure to interact with them using toys instead.
While biting and scratching while playing with your hands may appear cute when they’re kittens, keep in mind that as they get older, the bites and scratches will become more painful.
Prime Minister (3-6 years)
Your cat will be in its prime throughout these years, as the phase’s name suggests. While they are still young and healthy, it is crucial to keep your cat’s vaccines and health tests up to date in order to help prevent any infections or illnesses.
The bites and scratches will worsen as time goes on.
Mature (7 – 10 years)
Your cat will be roughly the same age as a person in their mid-forties to mid-fifties in humans at this point.
As a result, your pet can start to slow down, and they are more prone to gain weight. It’s crucial to watch their food intake closely to ensure that they are getting the proper amount for their level of exercise. Please see your veterinarian if you are unsure whether your cat is overweight or how to reduce feeding times.
Senior (11 – 14 years)
By the time your cat reaches the human age of 70, they may start to require more cerebral stimulation to stay happy.
Throughout their lives, and especially as they get older, when cats prefer to rest much more, you should continue to enrich your cat’s habitat. If your cat is a little overweight, food puzzles are a terrific method to keep them occupied and active while they try to acquire their food.
Geriatric (15 years and older)
It’s fortunate for some cats that they may live to this age with no symptoms of slowing down! Others, though, could begin to take things more slowly, contently sleeping the day away on their favorite pillow.
Geriatric cats will require more frequent observation for any behavioral changes, such as vocalization and increased frequency of urination. It is important to schedule a consultation with your vet if you observe anything unusual.
Keeping your feline fit and healthy
You may take a lot of steps to ensure that your kitty buddy has a happy golden years.
Observation is key to picking up on subtle changes in your cat’s behavior or general health. You can accomplish this by giving yourself a weekly mini-physical (if you are unsure about how to do this, ask us next time your cat visits).
Aside from these things, keep an eye out for adjustments in your pet’s water intake, eating, breathing patterns, coat quality, lumps and bumps, coughing, physical ability, toileting habits, and even grooming routines.
regular immunizations
regular veterinarian examinations, which include a physical exam
Age-appropriate balanced diet for your cat
Keep your weight within a healthy level.
Regularly partake in some mild playing as exercise
Create a relaxed atmosphere
