How long is the common cat supposed to live?
A reader wants to know the average lifespan of a cat, a question that can't be answered adequately with numbers. A strong genetic background for longevity can't be discounted. Given proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary visits, a cat kept indoors can live as long as 21 years or more. (The average age of cats is 12-15 years) This is, of course, barring any serious medical conditions or untimely accidents.
Read the rest of my reply.
Siamese are said to be one of the longest-lived cat breeds
Photo Credit: © Becky Bell
How to Convert Cat's Age to Human Years
You will be able to understand your cat's development more easily if you have a general idea of his age in human years. This method and the accompanying age chart will point the way for you.
- Allow 15 human years for the first year of your cat's life.
- Add nine years for the second year. A two-year old cat will approximate 24 human years.
Use this handy chart for quickly finding your cat's age in human years. It will help you understand the physiological changes your cat encounters as she ages, as well as anticipate and forestall age-related health problems before they start.
Comments
Thank you for the age chart. I copied it all down and put it into my cat management book for my Vet Assistant position in the near future.
Thx – now I know that both our cats are 52 in human years – they should still be out working for a living. They did, as cats will, ignore my suggestion.
My Siamese Lenny died five years ago at the age of 23. But his littermate, Squiggy, is still going strong at 28! Is this some kind of record?