How many years do cats live?
Knowing a cat’s life expectancy is essential for any cat owner who wants to ensure that his or her precious fluffy pet lives a good life. Cats are credited for their flexibility, many-a-times solitary and cute nature, but few people know that their life expectancy is age-relative and depends on the type of cats, their habitat, and the kind of health check they receive. In this article, the authors discuss the expectations for the cat’s life span, factors affecting it and how the cat owner can increase his cat’s life expectancy.
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| How many years do cats live ? |
Average Lifespan of Cats
Domestic Cats vs. Wild Cats
Wild cats are often outlived by domestic cats which are are usually given home food and receives medical attention of they fall sick. A healthy indoors cat is capable of living between the ages of 12 to 18 years, yet some can die at the age of 20 ‘s. Stray and feral cats have higher risks of injuries by other cats, accidents and diseases meaning their life expectancy is only 3 to 10 years.
Record-Breaking Felines
It is, however, worth understanding that some cats outlive the statistics and stay much longer than a normal cat is expected to. For instance, Creme Puff is the oldest documented cat who lived to about 38 years and 3 days more, showing that cats have the tendency to live longer with carefully taken care of.
Factors Influencing a Cat’s Lifespan
1. Genetics and Breed
Lifespan of the cat differs from breed to another and to give an average lifespan is quite a difficult endeavor. For example:
- Siamese Cats:They are reputed to live long; sometimes reaching up to 20 years or even more.
- Maine Coons:They are sturdy, huge, and healthy, but the longevity stands at 12 to 15 years most of the times.
- Persian Cats:The cats have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years and are inclined to some disorders.
2. Indoor vs. Outdoor Living
The indoor cats are less liable to be attacked by diseases or get injured by cars, other wild animals or in accidents since their range of movements are much more limited. This protection means that indoors and neutered cats would live much longer thanOUTD or FERAL cats.
3. Diet and Nutrition
Cat requires good and balanced diet for it to be healthy at all times. By giving our cats Foods that is of high quality and meet the age, size and activity of the cat is also crucial as it pro vide the required nutrient to the cat thus avoiding obesity ,diabetes and other health problems associated with it.
4. Medical Care and Vaccinations
In other words, it is not only important to select the breed but also to have the cat regularly checked with the veterinarian, vaccinated and given needful preventives regularly. They can lead healthier lives if early diagnosed and treated of conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes.
5. Spaying and Neutering
Cats that are spayed or neutered undergo less stress and have a higher longevity than those cats that have not been spayed or neutered. This is because the procedure minimizes chances of some types of cancers besides minimizing roving around that results in cases of accidents or injuries.
6. Stress and Environment
Cats are well suited to calm and stress-free environment. Thus, they are prone to fall sick most of the time, due to compromised immunity from constant stress. Their long life can only be guaranteed if those homes offer the necessary safety, are full of useful and pleasant amenities and are comfortable for living.
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| How many years do cats live ? |
Lifespan by Life Stage
Kitten Stage (0-1 Year)
Cats age at different rates than humans, and the first year of a cat’s life is equal to fifteen years in a human’s life. During this stage the physical development is fast therefore require nutritious food as well as frequent veterinary services.
Adult Stage (1-7 Years)
At this stage, most of the cats are usually heathly and most of the activities are witnessed. It is necessary to try to provide them with balanced and healthy food and to persuade them to play as much as possible.
Senior Stage (7+ Years)
Kittens become senior cats once they are seven years old. It is important for individuals at this stage to undergo through a routine check ups to ensure they do not develop certain diseases such as arthritis or dental diseases or kidney diseases among others.
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Tips to Help Your Cat Live Longer
Provide a Balanced Diet
Feed the cat good quality balanced diet for the cat’s age to meet its nutrient requirements. Do not overfeed a cat because being obese will reduce their lifespan.
Ensure Regular Veterinary Care
Again younger cats should be checked annually while the older cats, say felines over seven, should be checked twice a year. They need inoculations, internal and external parasite control, and dental care.
Encourage Physical Activity
Toys for cats, including scratching posts and climbing structures provide good exercise for your pet to fight obesity and boredom.
Maintain a Safe Environment
For the cats with a penchant for the outside experience, you can take them outside and supervize them or build a catio that gives your cat an outdoor experience with a secure environment.
Pay Attention to Mental Health
Give love, attention, play, and no pressure. They are such delicate animals that require well organized and affectionate homes.
Common Health Issues That Affect Longevity
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| How many years do cats live ? |
Kidney Disease
Thus, one of the chief killers of cats of senile age is chronic kidney disease. Some of the sign include constant desire of water, loss of weight and reduced appetite. In most cases, if the disease is diagnosed early enough, it can be well controlled
Dental Problems
Some of the diseases caused by poor dental hygiene include; gingivitis, tooth decay, and other forms of infection. It is very important to have a dental check-up for cleanings avd oral hygiene.
Diabetes
Overweight cats are most likely to develop diabetes mellitus strategically. This condition can be prevented or controlled by regular monitoring of weight and blood sugar.
Cancer
Despite the ability of cancer to hit anytime on any animal, cats are more susceptible to cancer as they age. It is important to take pet to a vet for check-up frequently often; this helps in early detection of cancer thus early treatment.
Conclusion
Cats are wonderful companions in our daily life and with suitable care they can live long healthy lives. This means that the aspects concerning genetics, feeding, and veterinary care for a cat contribute to the decision-making process as to how that cat might live a longer, healthier life. If we can offer our pets tender loving care, then we may well be able to have them with us for a good many years.
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