10 Cat Breeds That Live the Longest (Ranked)
Ever wonder which feline breeds have the longest lifespans? Several factors contribute to your cat's lifespan, including genetics and lifestyle. For example, indoor cats tend to live longer than outdoor ones since they're less likely to get in fights or become sick. You can also add years to your kitty's life by giving them regular health checkups and veterinary treatment when they need it.
But there may be inherent differences in your pet's genes that can affect their longevity, too. According to PetMD, medium-sized and larger breeds tend to have shorter lifespans than small and medium-sized ones do. And if you're wondering which cat breed lives the longest, we've rounded up some long-living kitties below.
Here are 10 of the longest-living cat breeds.
- #1. Burmese (20-25 years)
- #2. Ragdoll (15-25 years)
- #3. Balinese (18-22 years)
- #4. Siamese (15-20 years)
- #5. Persian (15-20 years)
- #6. Sphynx (15-20 years)
- #7. Bombay (15-20 years)
- #8. Russian Blue (15-20 years)
- #9. American Shorthair (15-20 years)
- #10. Manx (15-18 years)
#10Manx
15-18 years
The Manx is a breed of domestic cat that originated in the Isle of Man. They are typically very healthy breeds with minimal genetic problems due to their closed gene pool which helps them grow strong and able-bodied! These cats have a lifespan of 15 to 18 years on average.
These stocky, rounder, tailless cats come in short-hair and long-hair varieties. If you get a Manx breed, then you will need to care for his nutritional needs, grooming, entertainment, and protection.
#9American Shorthair
15-20 years
The American Shorthair was bred in early America and has been recognized by most cat associations around the world today. American Shorthair cats are medium to large. It is stocky but strong with a medium-length silky coat and rounded ears. They tend to adapt well with children and other pets making them a great choice for kids!
The American Shorthair is generally healthy, but some of the problems that affect the breed include hip dysplasia and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The average lifespan for an American Shorthair is between 15 and 20 years.
#8Russian Blue
15-20 years
The Russian Blue is a breed of cat known for its slate-blue colored double coat that can be mistaken as grey, silver, or even black, depending on the lighting. They are described as an intelligent, playful, and sensitive breed that loves to spend time with their human companion! These kitties are small, but they're also very intelligent and highly energetic - which probably explains why they love playing with small toys so much!
There are no specific health problems related to the Russian Blue. It is a genetically sound breed, mainly due to it being a naturally occurring breed. These cats have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years on average.
#7Bombay
15-20 years
The Bombay is an American breed of domestic short-hair cat with a sleek coat, almond eyes, and receptive behavior to human interaction. This breed has a friendly temperament and doesn't mind being carried about as it loves attention!
The Bombay is generally healthy, but some of the problems that affect the breed hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, excessive tearing of the eyes, and the possibility of breathing difficulties because of the cat's short muzzle. These cats have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years on average.
#6Sphynx
15-20 years
Sphynx cats are medium to large and known for their peach, peach-shell, or even bald appearance, resulting from a dominant gene mutation. The Sphynx is one of the rarest breeds in the world, which originally comes from Canada. Skin coloration may be different depending on the color of the cat. They have no fur or downy undercoat, which makes them more prone to cold, unlike other breeds that have thick coats.
Sphynx Cats need help keeping their skin healthy and free of excess oils. Sphynx has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years on average and is a relatively healthy breed.
#5Persian
15-20 years
Persian cats are large with long silky coats and distinctive physical features. Some of the outstanding features include a shortened muzzle, large eyes, and ears, as well as very soft padded paws. Persian cats love humans' company and have their daily dose of affection, making them great pets for seniors who will give lots of love to them!
Persian cats can live up to 20 years or more if they live indoors. Outdoor Persian cats live fewer years due to the dangers that cats in the general face while living outside.
#4Siamese
15-20 years
Siamese cats are medium to large. The cat is one of the oldest and best-known breeds due to its distinctive features and personality. This breed has a wedge-shaped head with high cheekbones and an angular muzzle along with large pointed ears that together creates a heart-shaped face.
Siamese also holds many records, such as having produced most champion cats for over ten consecutive generations, which is more than any other breed, making it popular among cat fanciers too! This long-haired cat has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years on average.
#3Balinese
18-22 years
The Balinese is a long-haired breed of domestic cat developed from Siamese lineage from which it originated in the early 1950s. Like other breeds, the Balinese have blue eyes only on the face with pale fur all around their body except for darker points on the ears, tail, and paws. In addition to these features, they also have long hair on their hind legs to make them more graceful-looking creatures!
A 2002 study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery found that Balinese cats typically live with proper care between 18 and 22 years. One notable cat to make it past the 20-year mark was Emo, who lived with her owner in Australia until she died in 2011 at the age of 21.
#2Ragdoll
15-25 years
The Ragdoll cat breed is also known as Gentle Giant. Ann Baker in California first bred it during the 1960s. These cats have a-eyed seal point color. Ragdolls are considered larger cats that have a soft, plush coat and long hind legs.
Ragdolls are very docile by nature and prefer being picked up rather than doing the picking themselves. They're particularly affectionate and friendly, which is why they make such great family pets. Ragdolls are generally healthy, but bladder stones and a heart condition known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are among the conditions that have been reported in the breed. These cats have a lifespan of between 15 to 25 years on average.
#1Burmese
20-25 years
Burmese cats are medium to large. They are well known for their short, glossy coats. They're also one of the smartest cat breeds around, which is probably why they make such excellent companions for humans. It is the most preferred breed in the United States as it gets along with kids very well, making it a great family pet. They are easy to groom, but their fur needs weekly brushing as it tends to tangle often.
Burmese breed has the longest lifespans of 20 to 25 years on average and is generally healthy. Some have even been known to live well into their 30s: The official record of the oldest living cat is a 35-year-old Burmese.
The Bottom Line
Cats are wonderful pets that can provide companionship and love for many years. They also have some pretty unique personalities, which is one of the reasons they're so popular among people who want a pet to keep them company on their terms. But as much as we adore cats, there's nothing worse than realizing you've lost the furry friend you loved dearly after only a few short months with them. You might find yourself wondering what breeds the longest lifespans to avoid this fate!
In our article today, we'll be exploring ten cat breeds that live the longest - from those with an average lifespan around 15-20 years old up to 25+ year lifespans per breed! All of these kitties.
References
- [1] ^ PetMD: 11 Ways to Help Your Cat Live Longer
- [2] ^ Guinness World Records: World's oldest animals: Cats, Dogs, Deep Sea Creatures and more
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