How Long Do Domestic Cats Live?

Have you ever heard the phrase that a cat can live nine lives? This does not go by its literal meaning. Rather the phrase means that a feline can live a long life. So, how long do domestic cats live? 

A domestic cat can live around 10 to 15 years. The lifespan can vary depending on various factors. For example, breed, care, health, etc. No matter which breed you are raising, you should know the life expectancy of the cat. Why? Well, this will help you plan a good future for the feline and you can be emotionally prepared for the cat’s demise. 

In this article, you will get to know the average lifespan of domestic cats. Also, you will have an idea of what factors affect their life expectancy.

How long do domestic cats live? 

Experts believe that a domestic cat can live around an average of 10 to 15 years. Depending on the breed, some cats can live up to 20 years and more. You will find most of those cats have crossed their 20s or 30s. 

The records indicate the oldest domestic cat diet at the age of 38. But do not expect all the breeds living up to this standard. With proper care, vaccination, spaying, and maintenance, a feline can live more than its expected lifespan. 

Researchers claim that mixed breed cats live longer lives than purebred ones. Again, the spayed or neutered cats have a longer lifespan than the non neutered cats. This is because neutering decreases the risk of reproductive diseases. 

Life stages of cats 

How long do domestic cats live? You know the answer now. Despite having a short size, the felines live a long life. You can divide a cat’s whole life into 5 stages. Such as: 

1. Kitten ( birth to 6 months)
2. Adolescent (7 months to 2 years)
3. Adult (3 to 6 years)
4. Mature (7 to 10 years)
5. Senior (11 to 14 years)
6. Super senior (15 or more years)

Long living domestic cat species

I have mentioned earlier that some cat breeds live a longer life than most others. Ain you curious to know the name of the breeds? Here are the longest living domestic cat breeds:

In most cases, these breeds live up to 20 years or more. But do not think all cats can reach that age. Many factors affect a cat’s lifespan. I will discuss them in the upcoming sections. 

How long do indoor cats live? 

Indoor cats live longer life than most other cats. According to the experts, the lifespan of an indoor cat ranges from 13 to 20 years. It makes their average life expectancy around 16 years. The interesting thing is, some cats can make it to the 30s. 

Why do indoor cats live this long? Well, the answer is simple. The indoor felines get routine medical care. In case of emergency or even for the slightest concern, the cat parents take the pet to the vet. 

However, the diet of an indoor cat is full of nutrients. They get a moisture-rich meal every day. Indeed, they do not get to do much exercise but the owner makes them do some little moves regularly. 

The constant care and attention are the secrets of the long life of an indoor cat. 

How long do outdoor cats live?

Domestic indoor cats live a long life. On the other hand, the lifespan of an outdoor cat is short. According to some statistics, an outdoor feline can live around 3 to 11 years. In other sense, you can say the average life expectancy of an outdoor cat is around 5 to 6 years. 

Why do outdoor cats live a shorter life? Well, I think you already know the answer. An outdoor feline is more exposed to the real world. They can fall into accidents, get involved in fights with wild animals, have worms, thick, and other diseases. 

But their life is not so miserable. They are more open to nature. They can roam freely and do exercise. The life of an outdoor cat is more adventurous than the indoor one. 

How long do tabby cats live?

Tabby cats are one kind of domestic cats. Furry coating with stripes or other marks on it makes a feline tabby. How long a tabby cat will live, this depends on the breed. 

Generally, the tabby cats have a lifespan of 12 to 18 years. Some felines may live longer. However, the strips or pattern on the coating does not affect its life expectancy. 

How long do calico cats live?

The calico cats are another type of domestic cats that have tri-colored coatings. The average lifespan of a calico cat is 15 years. You will be surprised to know that male calico cats have a shorter life than female ones. 

The experts believe this happens due to the unique chromosome makeup of the male calico cats. The male ones suffer from health diseases more than females. 

Factors that can affect a cat’s lifespan 

I have mentioned once that some factors affect a feline’s lifespan. What are they? Take a look: 

1. Breed 
2. Indoor or outdoor 
3. Health condition
4. Feral or domestic 
5. Spayed or neutered 
6. Gender 
7. Weight of the cat 

Indoor domestic neutered cats have a longer lifespan. If you ensure the cat’s medical checkups, it will live a happy and healthy life. Also, the heavyweight can cause diseases to the cat, which will decrease the life expectancy. 

How long do domestic cats live? The answer is somewhere between 10 to 20. If you can provide great care, your pet feline will live a happy and healthy life. 

Related:

How Long Do House Cats Live?

How Long Do Indoor Cats Live? Life Cycle of Cats

How Long Can Cats Go Without Food?

How Old Do Cats Live? What Is The Average Lifespan of Cat?

How long do cats live? – Facts you need to check today