We all want our cats to live forever, and some cat breeds have a leg up, boasting a longer lifespan than most.
Let’s take a look at the 10 cats with the longest life spans. Whether you’re in the market for a new cat or simply curious about your cat’s expected longevity, you can rest assured you’ll have your furry best friend by your side for years to come.
Birman
The Birman is a sacred cat with many legends surrounding its origin. This loyal and friendly cat has striking looks and is expected to live between 9 to 13 years. Health issues that could impact your cat’s lifespan, including heart disease and kidney disease.
Maine Coon
If you’re looking for a bigger cat, you may want to check out the Maine Coon. They can live between 10 and 13 years and have a friendly, gentle, and calm disposition. They do have some common health issues, like heart disease, kidney issues, hip dysplasia, and dental concerns.
Persian
If you’re looking for a calm cat, you may want to consider a Persian. With a life expectancy of between 10-15 years, these cats make great long-term companions. However, because of their flat faces, they may have health challenges, including breathing issues, skin concerns, kidney disease, eye problems, and dental disease.
Oriental Shorthair
The Oriental Shorthair is an affectionate breed that can trace its origins back to the Siamese. They love people and can be fairly vocal. You can enjoy their voice between 12-15 years, though they can have liver issues and eye problems. They are also prone to pica, which is a consumption of nonfood items that can lead to issues.
Siamese
Siamese cats are well known for their striking coloring, but that’s not the only reason they are popular. Siamese cats are expected to live between 12-20 years. Their average life expectancy is 15 years, and you’ll want to be on the lookout for dental and respiratory conditions that could impact their overall health.
Balinese
Balinese cats are closely related to Siamese cats. Thankfully, they inherit their kin’s long life span in addition to their coloring. Expect your Balinese to live between 12-20 years, though they can be prone to liver disease, dental issues, and vision problems.
Norwegian Forest
This cat may be Norway’s official cat, but it’s popular throughout the world because of its friendly and calm demeanor and good looks. With a lifespan of between 12-16 years, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a gentle cat that makes a great companion. They do have some common health concerns, including heart disease and joint issues.
Ragdoll
The Ragdoll has a fantastic temperament. They do well with children and other animals, which is why it is a popular cat breed. They have an average life expectancy of 13-18 years, though they may face some health issues like heart disease, bladder stones, allergies, obesity, and arthritis.
Russian Blue
Russian Blues may not be as common as some other breeds because they tend to be more independent. However, those looking for long-lived cats may want to consider this breed because they live between 15-20 years. While generally healthy, owners will want to watch out for obesity and dental issues to prolong their lifespan.
Burmese
Burmese cats are a crossbreed between Burma and Siamese cats, and they have the best features of both. From striking looks to a playful disposition, Burmese cats are expected to live between 20-25 years. Cranial deformities and glaucoma could impact their overall lifespan, though they recently topped a recent U.K. study of the longest-lived cats.
How to Improve Your Cat’s Life Span
A cat’s life expectancy depends on many different factors, and there are things that you can do to ensure they live a long, happy, healthy life.
- Keep them at a healthy weight. Up to 40 percent of cats are considered obese, which can lead to costly health problems that could shorten their life spans. If your cat is overweight, you may want to consider putting them on a diet to help improve their quality of life.
- Get regular check-ups. Routine check-ups with your vet can catch health concerns before they become a bigger issue. Also, make sure your cat is up to date on their vaccines.
- Play with them. Keeping your cat mentally and physically stimulated can have health benefits. Even if they are indoor cats, encourage them to play or hunt. Encourage their natural instincts with a scratching post or fake mice.
- Groom them regularly. Sure, our cats may lick themselves to keep clean, but you should also be grooming them. Brush their hair and inspect their bodies.
Some owners choose to invest in pet insurance to help cover any health issues that come up. It is an investment, but if your cat is prone to genetic conditions, it may be worthwhile.
As long as you take an active role in your cat’s life and don’t skip out on routine care, your cat should live a good, long life with you!
