How Long Do Cats Live?
The average cat lifespan is around 13 to 17 years, but some cats can live much longer, especially with proper care and a loving environment. The longest living cat on record, Creme Puff, lived a remarkable 38 years, setting a Guinness World Records milestone.
While most cats live into their teens or 20s, certain cat breeds are known to be more long-lived, offering the chance for many more years of companionship. Nurture and nature both play roles in determining how long your feline will stay by your side, but care is the true guarantee for a healthy, happy life.
1. Siamese
Life Span: 15–20 years
Weight: 8 to 10 pounds
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Energy Level: High
Coat : Short Hair
Color: seal, chocolate, blue, lilac,colorpoint
Siamese cats are a beautiful breed from Thailand, which have been the center of attention for centuries. These cats are known for their long build and unique coloring, as well as their lively and talkative nature. Siamese cats form very close bonds with their pet parents, and if you give them the right care, you can enjoy a partnership with them for up to 20 years.
These cats’ curiosity and talkativeness make them need an active environment, so it’s important to provide them with playtime and mental challenges. You can use interactive toys, such as food puzzles, to keep their minds active.
Although some Siamese cats may suffer from dental and respiratory problems, these cats generally do not have any major health problems. Their average lifespan is between 15 to 20 years, which makes the time spent with them even more precious.
2- Savannah
Life Span: 12–20 years
Weight: 20 to 30 pounds
Height: 12 to 14 inches
Energy Level: High
Coat: Short to medium Hair
Colours: Tawny, black or brown spotted tabby, black or silver spotted tabby, or black smoke, all with either a solid or tabby pattern.
The Savannah cat, a hybrid of the African Serval and a domestic cat, is best suited for owners with experience.This cat can be friendly with humans, but its temperament is unpredictable, active, and bold.
This breed is not entirely domesticated, and its personality is influenced by the presence of its Serval parent.The Savannah cat is typically a healthy breed, with a life expectancy ranging from 12 to 20 years, which makes it one of the longest-living cat breeds.
However, it is important to do your research before bringing a Savannah cat home, as the breed is not legal in all areas. Keep in mind that cats with a closer genetic link to their wild Serval ancestors tend to have more challenging care requirements and a more complex temperament.
3- Burmese
Life Span: 10–17 years
Weight: 6 to 10 pounds
Height: 10 to 12 inches
Energy Level: High
Coat: Short Hair
Color: Sable, champagne, platinum, blue, and variations of each
The Burmese cat, a cross between a small brown Burmese cat and a Siamese cat, is a cheerful, social, and adventurous animal. These cats not only generally live a long life, but they are also easy to train. Their personalities are characterized by their playful nature, vocalization, and desire to bond with their pet parents.
Burmese cats enjoy clicker training or playing fetch to bond with their owners and become more attached to their owners while learning new games. Although the breed is generally healthy, Burmese cats can suffer from certain health problems such as head deformities and glaucoma.
Despite these health concerns, Burmese cats typically live between 16 to 18 years, with some lucky ones even reaching 17 years or more, bringing joy and companionship to their families for many years. These cats add joy and color to the lives of their loving owners, and their social behavior and vocal lifestyle always please their fans.
4- Balinese
Life Span: 18–22 years
Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
Height: 6 to 7 inches
Energy Level: High
Coat: Long hair
Color: Creamy white body with a variety of possible color points on the face, ears, legs, tail
The Balinese cat is a naturally long-haired variety of the Siamese cat, with the only major difference being the length of their fur. Like the Siamese cat, the Balinese cat is also intelligent, social, and talkative, and loves to be involved in household affairs. These cats form deep bonds with their owners and enjoy participating in various aspects of life.
Balinese cats typically have a lifespan of 12 to 22 years, giving them the ability to accompany their owners for a long time. However, the breed can be prone to diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which causes vision loss, and hepatic amyloidosis (liver disease) is also a common problem.
Both of these diseases usually appear when the cat is between 5 and 7 years old. Despite this, the Balinese cat’s loving and playful life brings joy to its owners for many years.
5- Russian Blue
Life Span: 15–20 years
Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Short Hair
Color: ; Steel Blue
The steel-gray coat of the Rosin Blue is the most striking feature of this breed, along with its striking eyes. Initially golden in color, these eyes change to a deep green as the cat matures. This cat has a quiet and reserved nature, forming a loving bond with its family but not being overly clingy.
You can often see it resting in a sunny spot or guarding its territory from a high vantage point. This breed can suffer from bladder stones and eye problems, but its average lifespan is 15 to 20 years, during which time it forms a close bond with its owner.
6- Bombay
Life Span: 10–15 years
Weight: 8 to 15 pounds
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Energy Level: Medium
Coat : Short Hair
Color: Black
The Bombay cat is a rare breed that is black from head to toe, its coat, ears, and paws are all black, and its only distinguishing feature is its bright golden eyes. This cat looks like a miniature panther, and was specifically bred for this purpose, in which it has proven successful.
Bombay cats are typically gentle and loving.
While they enjoy playing, they also cherish moments of relaxation, often curling up on the lap of their favorite person for a cozy rest.Although there are not many documented health studies on Bombay cats, basic cat care principles such as high-quality nutrition, dental care, and regular checkups typically extend the breed’s lifespan to 15 years, and some Bombay cats live for 20 years or more.
However, this breed can be prone to respiratory diseases, heart disease, and watery eyes due to its short snout. Its average lifespan is 10 to 15 years.
7- Ragdoll
Life Span: 15–20 years
Weight: 8 to 20 pounds
Height: 9 to 11 inches
Energy Level: Low to Medium
Coat: Long Hair
Color: Chocolate, Red, Seal, Blue, lilac, Cream; Colorpoint, Cicolor, mitted, van
Ragdoll cats are very affectionate and social, forming a strong bond with their owners. These cats typically live long and healthy lives, ranging from 13 to 18 years. Not only do they have big personalities, but they are also quite large, weighing up to 20 pounds.
Because these cats are so large,Therefore, it is important for them to maintain a proper weight so that their joints are not put under extra pressure. If they receive good care and a balanced diet, Ragdoll cats remain healthy most of the time and become a part of their owners’ lives.
Ragdoll cats’ easygoing nature and gentle temperament bring them closer to humans, and they love to follow their owners everywhere. When held, they relax their bodies, which is why they are named “ragdoll.
This breed is generally healthy, but some cats can be prone to bladder stones and heart disease. Their average lifespan is 15 years or more, and this lifespan can be extended further if they receive proper care and love.
8- American Shorthair
Life Span: 15–20 years
Weight: 10 to 15 pounds
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Short Hair
Color: ; Many colors, including white, silver, black, cream, blue, brown, red; tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, bi-color, solid
American Shorthair cats, a natural breed of domestic shorthair, are particularly popular with families with children due to their friendly and playful nature. These cats generally find their own activities and do not demand much attention, however, they also enjoy interactive play and socializing.
These cats are naturally low-maintenance, and their soft and easy-to-manage coat keeps them free from the need for any complicated grooming.Not only is the breed popular in the United States, it also has a historical connection to the White House an American Shorthair cat named “India” served as the first cat in the White House during the presidency of George.
Bush and lived for 18 years. These cats are generally healthy, but they are prone to heart disease.The average lifespan of this breed is 15 to 20 years, and their easy-to-handle characteristics make them an excellent pet.
9- Persian
Life Span: 15 to 20 years
Weight: 7 to 12 pounds
Height: 10 to 15 inches
Energy Level: Low
Coat: Long hair
Color: Blue, Black, White, Red, Cream, Chocolate, lilac, Silver, Golden; Solid, Tabby, Tortoiseshell, Bicolor
Persian cats are known for their impressive size, especially when compared to other breeds, although they don’t hold the title of the largest breed on this list.They weigh around 12 pounds, and their soft, dense fur makes them look even larger. This large house cat is very easygoing and intelligent, and many owners have even had success teaching them tricks!
Persian cats are known to require extra grooming, but if groomed daily, they are very easy to care for. They are easy to identify because they have a flat face and very long fur, which, along with their peaceful and affectionate nature, creates a distinct identity.
Persian cats are low in energy, so they are ideal for those looking for a laid-back, calm cat. The breed has an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years, but due to their facial structure, they can be prone to brachycephalic syndrome. Additionally, the breed is also at risk for polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy.
10- Birman
Life Span: 12 to 16 years
Weight: 7 to 14 pounds
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Medium-long to long Hair
Color: Heavy ruff around neck various colorpoints and patterns
The Birman cat is a charming and beautiful animal, whose colorful coat, blue eyes, and white paws make it unique. These cats are very social and gentle and always like to be with their owner. Leaving them alone can cause them distress.Their friendly nature allows them to get along well with people of all ages and other pets, making them excellent pets.
Although this cat is generally healthy, it can be prone to certain diseases, such as hyperthyroidism, eye diseases, and diabetes.However, the average lifespan of a Birman cat is between 12 and 16 years, making it one of the longest-lived cats. The Birman cat’s gentle nature and beauty, as well as its loyal and loving nature, make it an excellent companion.
11- Oriental Shorthair
Life Span: 15 years
Weight: 12 pounds
Height: 9 to 11 inches
Energy Level: High
Coat: Short Hair
Color: White,Black, 2Gray/Blue, Brown, Orange (300 variations); solid, shaded, smoke, tabby
The Oriental Shorthair is a slender, long cat with a soft, shiny coat that lies close to its body. These cats thrive on companionship and can find it challenging to be left alone for long periods.They make a variety of sounds to communicate with their owners, such as meows and purrs, which are their way of communicating.
Although this cat can be prone to certain diseases such as bladder stones and progressive retinal atrophy, its average lifespan is up to 15 years, which is relatively long. The loyalty and social nature of these cats make them wonderful pets, always wanting to be with you.
12- Maine Coons
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
Weight: 12 to 20 pounds
Height: 10 to 16 inches
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Long Hair
Color: Black, White, cream, blue, red, brown, and silver, as well as different patterns like tabby, tortoiseshell, and solid colors.
Maine Coons are considered the largest domestic cats in the world. They can weigh up to 20 pounds and grow up to 40 inches long. Their coat is soft, dense, and floral, giving them a unique and charming appearance. The Guinness World Records also holds the title of the tallest cat, a Maine Coon named “Barville,” who measured 3 feet 11.2 inches from head to tail.
If you are looking for a large cat breed, the Maine Coon is the perfect choice for you. These cats are not only known for their size, but their gentle and friendly nature also makes them ideal pets. In the past, these cats were kept as hunting cats on farms But now, due to their beautiful appearance and intelligent, playful nature, they are found in homes around the world, and many families love to spend quality time with them.
13- Turkish Angora
Life Span: 15 to 20 years
Weight: 5 -10 pounds
Height: 9 -11 inches
Energy Level: High
Coat: Medium to long, silky
Color: Various colors, including white, black, blue, red, and tabby patterns
The Turkish Angora is a lively and vocal cat breed that can live well beyond the average lifespan of a typical cat. Some Turkish Angora cats can live for 20 years or more. They are available in a wide range of colors, with coats that are both stunning and diverse.
It’s worth mentioning that white cats with one or both blue eyes have a higher chance of being genetically deaf. In addition, the intelligence and speed of Turkish Angora cats make them very popular pets, forming very strong bonds with their owners.
14- Norwegian Forest
Life Span: 12 -16 years
Weight: 9 -22 pounds
Height: 9 -12 inches
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Coat: Long, dense, waterproof
Color: Various colors, including tabby, black, white, and cream
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a powerful and muscular cat with large paws and a thick coat that makes it look even bigger and stronger. This cat can grow as heavy as 22 pounds, and its roots trace back to a legendary tale from Norway.
According to the story, there was a cat that lived in the forest and would magically disappear,Once only its bushy tail was visible. Norwegian cat breeders decided to turn this legend into reality, and thanks to this, the Norwegian Wildcat breed came into being. The beauty and strength of these cats soon made them popular all over the world. Today, this cat is known not only for its strong body, but also for its intelligence and cunning.
15- Manx Cat
Life Span: 12 -16 years
Weight: 8 -12 pounds
Height: 10 – 14 inches
Energy Level: Moderate
Coat: Short to medium, dense
Color: Various colors, including black, white, tabby, and tortoiseshell
The Manx cat is a unique cat that is not only famous for its taillessness, but is also considered one of the longest-lived cats. This cat forms close bonds with its owners and other pets and has a very friendly nature.
Manx cats are larger than average cats, and although some cats may suffer from Manx syndrome, most Manx cats are cheerful, healthy, and have soft, round bodies. These cats can live for 20 years or more, making them a great choice as pets around the world. Their loving and loyal nature makes them a beloved member of families.
16- Ragamuffin Cat
Life Span: 12-16 years
Weight: 10-20 pounds
Height: 9-11 inches
Energy Level: Moderate
Coat: Medium to long, soft, dense
Color: Various colors, including solid, tabby, and bicolor
This large domestic cat, whose name is unique, will soon win your heart with its soft, rabbit-like coat and adorable appearance. Typically weighing up to 20 pounds, the Ragamuffin cat is descended from the Ragdoll breed, so its characteristics are similar to those of the Ragdoll.
This breed emerged when the original breeders of the Ragdoll disagreed about which direction to take the breed. As a result, they created two different breeds, which is why the Ragdoll cat comes in a variety of colors. The gentle nature and beautiful coat of this cat make it a wonderful pet, making it a loving addition to any home.
FAQs
1- Which cat breed is the longest?
The Maine Coon is the longest cat breed, with some growing up to 40 inches long, including their tail.Known for its large size and friendly nature, it holds the record for being one of the largest domestic cats.
2- What is the largest breed of cat?
The Maine Coon is known as the largest cat breed, with males generally weighing between 15 and 25 pounds. Its sturdy frame and thick fur make it appear even larger.
3- What type of cat has the longest fur?
The Persian cat is renowned for its long, thick, luxurious coat. Its fur requires regular grooming to maintain its appearance and prevent matting.
4- Do tabby cats live longer?
Tabby cats, like most domestic cats, tend to live around 12-16 years. Their lifespan doesn’t significantly differ from other cat breeds but can be influenced by health care and environment.
5- What breed is the king cat?
The Maine Coon is often referred to as the “king of cats” due to its impressive size, regal appearance, and majestic demeanor. Its stature and affectionate nature make it a popular breed.
