If you’re besotted by your furry feline friend, you might be wondering just how long do cats live? Let’s answer your feline lifespan questions!
How Long Do Cats Live?
On average, cats live around 13 to 17 years. But remember, that’s just an average! Some cats will continue to strut their stuff well into their twenties, while others may unfortunately have a shorter run. Many factors can affect the lifespan of a cat, but as a pet owner, you will undoubtedly want your feline friend to be part of your life for as long as possible.
Cat Life Stages Explained
In humans, we often describe certain life stages with names such as ‘toddler’ or ‘teenager’. But do cats have similar life stages to their two-legged carers? Yes, they do!
• Kittenhood
Kittenhood encompasses the first year of a cat’s life, when they go from a completely dependent little newborn kitten through to an adolescent bundle of mischief! A lot of changes occur during this first year, and by the time your kitten is 12 months old, it is the equivalent of 15 years old in human terms.
• Adulthood
By the time your cat is one year old, it should (hopefully!) be leaving the mischievous adolescent phase behind. Up to the age of six, adulthood is considered to be the prime of your cat’s life, while cats aged seven to ten are categorized as ‘mature’.
• Senior Cats
Cats are classed as seniors from the age of 11 onwards. At this stage they will start to slow down, preferring leisurely naps and serene spots to call their own. Your older cat will still have plenty of love to give, just at a more relaxed pace!
Factors That Affect Feline Lifespan
Want to help your cat live for as long as possible? Unfortunately, some factors that affect feline lifespan, such as genetics, are beyond our control, but others are certainly something we can do something about!
Firstly, a balanced diet and regular exercise are vital for a cat’s health and longevity. Providing nutritious meals and engaging playtime will keep your feline friend in top shape.
Secondly, don’t skip those vet visits! Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care play a significant role in ensuring a long and healthy life for your cat.
And finally, creating a safe and stimulating environment can help extend your cat’s lifespan. Keep your cat protected from hazards such as traffic accidents, predators, and exposure to diseases.
Remember that Maven is here to help you with all your cat health and well-being needs! Our vets keep a constant eye on your furball through the data collected by our devices, let you know how they’re doing, and share insights to improve their life – while also being available 24/7 to answer any questions of concerns you may have.
A wide range of services are included in a Maven membership – from fully custom nutrition and exercise plans, to ongoing care, medication management or emergency consults. You get over $3,000 of vet services starting at $25/month!
Final Thoughts
While we can’t predict the exact number of years your cat will live, understanding the average lifespan, different life stages, and factors that can influence longevity can help you provide the best care possible. Cherish any time spent with your feline friend, and make every year a special one!
Maven Pet focuses on improving the quality of life of our pets with technology, using artificial intelligence (AI) to enable proactive pet care. By accurately collecting and monitoring pet data 24/7 and flagging any irregularities, Maven Pet empowers pet parents and veterinarians to stay ahead of potential health issues, ensuring the well-being and longevity of our beloved companions.
