How Long Do Cats Live? Average Lifespan by Breed
Cats are famously long-lived compared to many other pets, and modern veterinary care has pushed their lifespans even further. If you're wondering what to expect, here's a comprehensive look at how long cats live and the factors that influence it most.
Michel Kuhn for PetWiseLab
The Average Cat Lifespan
The average indoor domestic cat lives 12 to 18 years, with many cats living well into their early 20s. The oldest verified cat on record, Creme Puff, lived to 38 years old in Austin, Texas.
Outdoor cats have significantly shorter average lifespans, often 10–12 years or less, due to exposure to cars, predators, infectious diseases, and environmental hazards.
Lifespan by Breed
Some breeds are known for exceptional longevity:
Long-lived breeds (often 15–20+ years):
Siamese: 15–20 years; one of the most long-lived breeds
Burmese: 16–18 years
Russian Blue: 15–20 years
Balinese: 15–20 years
Persian: 12–17 years (though prone to respiratory issues)
Average lifespan breeds (12–16 years):
Maine Coon: 12–15 years (prone to heart disease)
Bengal: 12–16 years
British Shorthair: 12–17 years
Ragdoll: 12–17 years (watch for heart conditions)
Breeds with more health challenges:
Scottish Fold: 11–14 years (bone and joint issues due to genetic mutation)
Sphynx: 8–14 years (prone to heart conditions)
Mixed-breed ("moggy") cats often live longer than purebreds thanks to greater genetic diversity, a phenomenon called hybrid vigor.
What Affects a Cat's Lifespan?
Indoor vs. outdoor living is the single biggest factor. Indoor cats simply face fewer life-threatening risks.
Spaying or neutering increases lifespan by reducing the risk of reproductive cancers and eliminating behaviors that lead to injury (roaming, fighting).
Diet and weight matter enormously. Obesity is associated with diabetes, joint problems, and heart disease in cats, all of which shorten life.
Dental health is underrated. Untreated dental disease leads to systemic infection and organ damage. Regular teeth cleaning, even just brushing at home, adds years.
Preventive vet care, vaccinations, parasite control, annual exams, catches problems early when they're most treatable.
Genetics. Some cats are simply dealt a better hand.
Signs of Aging in Cats
Cats are stoic and hide illness well. In senior cats (10+), watch for: weight loss, changes in litter box habits, increased thirst, cloudiness in the eyes, changes in vocalization, and reduced grooming. These warrant a vet visit.
With good care, your cat has every chance of being with you for a long, long time.