We all wish our pets would live forever, we never get enough of their tiny paws and their gorgeous faces; but the truth is sooner or later they all must leave us. But exactly how soon? Keep reading to find out the average lifespan of cats and how to make their lives longer.
Average lifespan of cats if they live indoors
It’s not really a secret that animals tend to live very different lives when they’re in their natural habitat or when they’re with a human. Even though cats don’t really have a “natural” habitat, this rule applies to them too, although probably not in the way you think. It is proven that the average lifespan of cats is nearly three times longer when they are indoor cats.
When cats are kept as pets, they are typically sterilized, vaccinated, fed regularly with nutritious food or even food special for their medical condition, they have regular access to clean water and most of all, they are away from the typical risks and dangers of the outside world that can fill them up with stress, or directly harm them.
Even though indoor cats require attention, distractions, exercise and of course affection, this of course help them live longer, healthier and happier lives. As with any other animal, their age ranges from 14 to 20 years, but we might say that, in indoors, the average lifespan of cats is 17 years.
Cats in the outdoors
You’re wondering how this number differs from cats in “the wild”? Sadly there’s a huge number of factors that limit or affect the average lifespan of cats when they live outdoors or on their own. For the purposes of this article, when we refer to “outdoors” we mean an urban cat, because countryside cats are way different in their lifestyle.
Our furry friends face possible predators, tough weather, cars, illness, fleas or ticks and even confrontations with other cats. All of this can put a big stress on a cat’s life, resulting in a not-so-promising lifespan. When living outdoors or partly outdoors, the average lifespan of cats is 5.6 years. So if you have a cat that is more prone to living outdoors you should keep the most common risks in mind.
How to improve the average lifespan of cats
As somebody who loves their cat to death, you must be wondering: “How can I extend the average lifespan of my cat?”. Well, even though a cat lasts in big part thanks to it’s genetics and overall good health, there are things you can do to keep them around longer.
First and foremost, you should take seriously your cat’s veterinary checkups, keep up with their vaccines and make sure to keep a close watch on their hair, nails, sight and any sign that might mean they’re not okay.
Besides vet care, which is a yearly thing, the best way to extend the average lifespan of cats is to provide them with the right nutrition. Their teeth, hair, joints, and digestion will be on point if you feed them with good quality food and treats. Make sure to give them wet food and the right amount of water to also keep them hydrated.
And last but not least, one of the best ways to improve the average lifespan of cats (that’s also the most enjoyable way) is to give them lots of love! Cats who feel nurtured, loved and cared for live fuller lives. According to thesprucepets the oldest cat lived 38years and 3 days. This cat lists in Guinness Book of World record. The reason is still unknown why this cats lives so long but good genetics, overall good health and extra loving care with safe environment definitely helps. So don’t be cheap on hugs and cuddles, we know it still won’t be enough time with them but at least they’ll give you a few more precious years.
