# How Long Can We Share Our Lives with Cats?
Wouldn't it be wonderful if our furry friends could stay with us forever? While that's not the case, cats can bring joy and love into our lives for many years. If you're thinking about welcoming a fluffy kitten or already have a purring companion, you might wonder how much precious time you have with them.
The silver lining is that cats today live longer than they ever have, thanks to better medical care, nutrition, and love. Feeding them nutritious food and ensuring they have playful activities can help your feline friend enjoy a long and happy life.
Cat Lifespan: Tender Years with Your Feline
- Average Life Expectancy: Most mixed-breed cats live around 14 years, while purebred cats have an average lifespan of 12.5 years. However, some cats delight us by living up to 20 years or even more! The record-holder, Crème Puff, lived an astonishing 38 years.
Longest-Living Breeds: If you're curious about which breeds may stick around the longest, here's a quick list:
- Birman: 16.1 years
- Burmese: 14.3 years
- Siamese: 14.2 years
- Persian: 14.1 years
- Crossbred: 14 years
- British Shorthair: 11.8 years
- Maine Coon: 11 years
- Ragdoll: 10.1 years
- Abyssinian: 10 years
- Bengal: 7.3 years
Cherishing and Extending Every Moment
Bringing home a playful kitten means potentially embarking on a 15-year journey together. But how can you help them live those years to the fullest?
Tips for a Longer, Happier Life
- Home Sweet Home: Keeping your cat indoors can protect them from accidents and injuries. However, indoor life might lead to weight gain, so strike a balance by letting them roam in a safe outdoor space or providing exciting toys for exercise.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Avoiding obesity safeguards your cat from diseases. Understand your kitty's ideal body shape and ensure they're neither too thin nor too chubby.
- Neutering Benefits: Neutered cats often live longer. Though neutering can increase obesity risk, it also reduces chances of other health issues.
- Stay up to Date on Health: Keeping vaccinations current, like the one for Feline Leukemia Virus, offers protection and boosts lifespan.
- Regular Vet Visits: Regular check-ups, especially as your cat ages, can catch health issues early, making them easier to manage.
Veterinarians treasure every moment spent with cats, especially those who reach a ripe old age of 20 or beyond! As our feline companions live longer, caring for their health ensures their golden years are filled with love and comfort.
Appreciate Every Purr and Cuddle
Cherish every moment with your cat, and if you haven't yet felt the joy of owning a feline friend, consider adopting. You never know how much love and happiness these furry souls can bring into your life.